Ingredients
Coffee
- a single or double espresso, or strong mocha coffee
Milk
- 120 mlwhole milk
To finish
- a dusting of cocoa, optional
- whipped cream, for some versions
To serve
- a glass of cold water, always
- a small spoon laid across it
- a newspaper
Equipment
- an espresso machine, or a moka pot
- a milk jug
Directions
- Pull a good espresso, or make strong coffee in a moka pot.
- Steam the milk to about 60 to 65°C, until it is hot but not scalding. Do not overheat the milk.
- Pour it in steadily so the milk and coffee combine, holding back the foam until the end. It should end up with a layer of soft foam a centimetre or so deep, rather than the stiff cap of a badly made cappuccino.
- Dust with cocoa if you like, though a traditional Melange is often served plain.
- Serve it on a small tray with the glass of water and the spoon. Never simply ask for a coffee, which marks you out immediately and may get you asked which one.
- Take your time. Sitting for two hours over one Melange with a newspaper is exactly what the place is for.
Technique
- UNESCO listed Viennese coffee house culture in 2011.
- The glass of water is standard and is refilled while you sit.
- Ordering simply a coffee is considered vague in Vienna.
Substitutions
- A moka pot in place of an espresso machine.
- A cappuccino, which is very close.
Variations
- Einspänner, in a glass with whipped cream.
- Verlängerter, lengthened with water.
- Franziskaner, a Melange with whipped cream instead of foam.
History
Coffee with steamed milk in Vienna’s coffee houses, whose culture UNESCO listed as intangible cultural heritage in 2011.
Frequently asked questions
What is Wiener Melange?
Wiener Melange is a drink from Austria: espresso with steamed milk foam, coffeehouse ritual. Coffee with steamed milk in Vienna’s coffee houses, whose culture UNESCO listed as intangible cultural heritage in 2011.
How long does Wiener Melange take to make?
Wiener Melange takes 5 min of preparation and 5 min of cooking. The recipe makes 1 cup. It is rated medium to make.
What can I substitute in Wiener Melange?
Yes, within limits. A moka pot in place of an espresso machine. A cappuccino, which is very close.
What is the most important thing to get right in Wiener Melange?
Steam the milk to about 60 to 65°C, until it is hot but not scalding. Do not overheat the milk.
