Mint espresso

Name: Mint espresso
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients: 30 ml espresso coffee; 300 ml milk; 2 dried figs; ½ tsp dried mint; 1 tsp granulated sugar

Elevate your coffee routine with a delightful mint espresso, a refreshing blend that marries the robust depth of espresso with the refreshing zing of mint. This recipe infuses the natural sweetness of dried figs and the aromatic essence of dried mint into a classic espresso, topped with a velvety layer of foamed milk. Perfect for a morning wake-up or an after-dinner treat, this recipe is a sophisticated twist on your traditional coffee experience.

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Instructions

Chop the figs and add to a wide glass with the dried mint and sugar.
Pour the espresso into the glass. Mix and mash the ingredients a little.
Heat the milk carefully in a pan to about 65 ºC and whisk to a soft foam. Pour the milk into the glass.
Garnish with a fresh mint leaf.

Enjoy!

Questions about mint espresso

Find below the answers to the most frequently asked questions about mint espresso.

Can I make this recipe without espresso?

Definitely! If you don't have espresso, simply choose a strongly brewed coffee: the goal is to achieve a rich and concentrated flavour that complements the mint and milk. Aim for a coffee-to-water ratio between 1:2 and 1:3. From there, adjust the ratios to suit your taste preferences, and experiment to find the right balance between strength and flavour.

What type of milk should I use for the mint espresso?

Our recipe uses whole milk to achieve a rich and velvety texture that balances the strong coffee and refreshing mint. If you prefer a less creamy option, use semi-skimmed milk, though it may yield a slightly lighter foam. Non-dairy alternatives like oat or almond drinks are also suitable, offering unique flavours that will complement the mint.

How should I serve the mint espresso for the best flavour experience?

Start by ensuring that your espresso is brewed fresh and hot as this forms the base of your drink. Another simple – but impactful step – is to gently press the fresh mint leaves between your fingers to release its oils before placing it on top of the foam. Serving the mint espresso in a clear glass cup with a wide rim will not only showcase its beautiful layers but allow your guests to appreciate the aromas and textures as they enjoy this refreshing beverage.

Can I use fresh, instead of dried mint for this recipe?

Absolutely! There are, however, a few considerations that you need to keep in mind. Fresh mint has a more vibrant but less concentrated flavour compared to dried mint, so you might need to use a larger quantity to achieve a similar taste intensity. To extract the most flavour from fresh mint, bruise or crush the leaves gently before incorporating them into the recipe. This helps release the essential oils, giving you a fresher and more aromatic mint flavour. For this recipe, you can also steep the crushed fresh mint leaves in the warm milk, then strain them out before frothing to ensure a smooth texture.

Can I make an iced mint espresso?

Yes, you can use the same recipe with a few modifications to suit a cold drink. Start by brewing a strong espresso and letting it cool to room temperature, then chill it in the refrigerator. Prepare the figs and dried mint as usual, replacing the granulated sugar with a simple syrup (dissolving equal parts sugar and water) to smoothly incorporate the sweetener into the drink. Use the same frothing technique with cold milk to create a pillowy foam. Serve with a few blocks of ice and garnish with the fresh mint leaves. This version delivers the bold flavours of espresso with a refreshing minty twist, perfect as a unique iced coffee treat.

Ingredients

Espresso coffee	30 ml
Milk	300 ml
Dried figs	2
Dried mint	½ tsp
Granulated sugar	1 tsp

Delight your senses and perfect your mint espresso with these carefully curated tips.

From choosing the right ingredients to serving suggestions, our tips will help you craft an exceptional coffee experience that's as enjoyable to make as it is to drink.

Get the temperatures just right

Begin by brewing your espresso at the optimal temperature, typically around 90-96 ºC, ensuring a rich and full-bodied base. Serve the espresso in a pre-warmed cup to maintain its heat, which helps the mint to gently infuse the coffee, creating a harmonious blend of flavours. If you're making an iced version, allow the espresso to cool to room temperature before chilling it in the refrigerator, and use cold milk to prevent melting the ice too quickly.

Enhance the flavour with these sweetener variations

Classic white sugar is always a reliable choice, offering a straightforward sweetness that complements the espresso's robust flavours. If you'd like to add a touch of caramel-like richness, try using brown or muscovado sugar – these darker varieties contain molasses, adding a subtle complexity that plays well with coffee and mint. Honey or maple syrup can also be excellent choices, lending a unique character and smooth texture. Always, start with small amounts and adjust to taste, ensuring that the sweetness enhances the espresso's natural boldness and the mint's freshness without overwhelming the overall balance.

Garnish for elegance and aroma

Fresh mint leaves as used in this recipe are a natural choice: they add a burst of colour and a refreshing scent. For an added touch of sophistication, sprinkle finely grated chocolate or cocoa powder over the foam, creating a delicate dusting that complements the espresso's rich flavour. Alternatively, you could shave some dark chocolate to create elegant curls that rest on top. If you're looking for a hint of spice, a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and complexity.

Pair your mint espresso with these complementary flavours

Create a welcome contrast in textures by serving your creamy mint espresso with a plate of buttery shortbread cookies or crunchy biscotti. For a richer pairing, try dark chocolate truffles or chocolate-covered espresso beans – their deep cocoa notes harmonise beautifully with the coffee while echoing the minty undertones. If you're in the mood for something savoury, a charcuterie board featuring sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda can create an interesting contrast, balancing the sweetness of the espresso with a touch of umami. For a lighter option, pair the mint espresso with fresh fruit like strawberries or orange slices, which offer a burst of refreshing citrusy flavour to cleanse the palate.

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