Last Updated on March 3, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith
When it comes to coffee, the Portuguese are not far behind the Italians and the Brits.
Have you heard of Galao coffee? It’s Portugal’s own version of the latte or cafe au lait, and it’s absolutely delicious! Picture a rich espresso drink topped off with perfectly frothed milk, all served up in a tall glass. Yum!
While traditionally a breakfast beverage, there’s no wrong time to enjoy a Galao. And the best part? You don’t need to travel all the way to Portugal to savor this tasty treat.
Here, we’ve got a super simple Portuguese coffee recipe. Let’s get started!
More About Portuguese Coffee (Aka Galao)
Did you know that Portugal doesn’t actually grow coffee? But don’t be fooled – coffee is still a vital part of the country’s culture! And when it comes to the perfect blend, the Portuguese have it down pat. Instead of using all-Arabica coffee beans like most countries, Portuguese coffee typically blends Arabica and Robusta beans together.
But that’s not all. The beans are roasted evenly and slowly, resulting in a low-acid coffee with a creamier texture.
And if you’re a fan of espresso, you’re in for a treat. Espresso is the go-to drink for most Portuguese coffee lovers. But for those who want a little something extra, the Galao is a perfect choice. Made with espresso and steamed milk, it’s the Portuguese version of a latte.
Next time you’re in Portugal, make sure to try their coffee for yourself. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite blend!
Portuguese Galao Recipe
Equipment
- Moka pot (Can use strongly brewed coffee as a substitute)
- Saucepan
- Stove
- Serving mug
- Milk Frother (Can use Whisk as a substitute)
Ingredients
- 1 ounce coffee beans (Dark roast)
- 2 ounces water
- 6 ounces milk (Use oat milk if vegan)
- sugar or honey (As preferred)
Instructions
- First, finely grind the dark-roasted coffee beans.
- Ready your Moka pot or espresso machine to brew a fresh espresso batch.
- Now place the saucepan on the stovetop at medium heat, as the milk is heating stir it continuously.
- Before milk boils take it off the stove and froth it with the help of a milk frother.
- Take the serving mug and pour in espresso, your desired amount of sugar, and frothed milk.
- Now sit back and enjoy this delicious cup of Portuguese coffee.
Notes
- Learn how to brew espresso with a Moka pot.
- How to use an espresso machine to pull shots of espresso.
Make Your Own Version of Portuguese Coffee
When it comes to making your own Galao coffee, the options are endless! You don’t have to stick to a specific type of coffee bean – any kind will do the trick. If you want that classic latte taste, go for a dark or espresso roast. But if you’re feeling adventurous, lighter roasts can work just as well. And if you want to get really authentic, try using a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans.
Now, let’s talk about milk. While we prefer 2% cow’s milk for our Galaos, you can use any type of milk you prefer. Almond milk or oat milk works great as a dairy-free option. The key is finding the perfect balance of creaminess without adding too many extra calories.
And what about sweeteners? Anything you would add to a regular latte will work just fine in your Portuguese coffee. Homemade syrups, white sugar, or honey are also great options. For an extra special touch, we like to add a pinch of cinnamon to our Galao as well.
So go ahead, try something new, and find your perfect Galao recipe. With so many options to choose from, there’s no reason not to indulge in this delicious Portuguese treat!
Portuguese Galao Recipe: FAQs
Final Thoughts
While you may know Portugal for Port wine or Pastel de Nata, it’s also a country that loves its coffee. With this simple and easy-to-follow Portuguese Coffee recipe, we hope that you gained a better picture of this milky delight.
You just need a few simple tools and some high-quality ingredients to whip up a delicious Galao right at home. So why wait? Get brewing and start enjoying the creamy goodness of this beloved Portuguese coffee today!