#CappuccinoDay: Cappuccino ramen or shrikhand: Pick your quirky variant

The ubiquitous cappuccino, which has been around since the 17th century, has evolved into various forms over the years. Surendra Singh, pastry chef at an upscale five-star hotel, tells us why the beverage continues to command such popularity, “Cappuccino has become a modern version of chai in India for coffee connoisseurs. The blend of strong espresso with frothy milk foam is like the layered flavours we enjoy in our masala chai: intense yet soothing.” On Cappuccino Day today, let’s celebrate the beverage that has gone beyond being your regular cup of joe.

Go OTT with the versatile cappuccino

“Cappuccino is incredibly versatile, and adding an Indian twist makes it even more exciting,” says chef Singh, as he lists some out-of-the-box ideas:

Cappuccino rasmalai: Soft rasmalai soaked in a cappuccino-flavoured milk base with a sprinkle of coffee powder on top, creates a dessert that’s as decadent as it is unexpected
Cappuccino panna cotta: This has cappuccino’s aroma and a creamy melt-in-your-mouth texture

Cappuccino-infused crème brûlée: Combining cappuccino with crème brûlée adds warmth and sophistication to this popular dessert. Crack through the caramelised top for a silky custard

Coffee lovers, assemble: A Tokyo resto is serving cappuccino ramen

A Tokyo restaurant called Rahmen & Onigiri Eddie made it to headlines earlier this year for its “wild” Cappuccino Ramen. Worth US$9.11 (approx Rs 768), the quirky ramen is presented in an oversized mug with a dash of truffle oil on the side for extra flavour. As per diners’ reviews, the “broth is creamy and packed with the rich, delicious flavour of porcini mushrooms.” The froth is white beaten egg, which is slightly torched to resemble the top of a cappuccino when served.

Make cappuccino shrikhand at home:

Ingredients

2 cups thick Greek yoghurt (or hung curd)

1 shot of espresso (cooled)

2 tbsp powdered sugar (to taste)

¼ tsp cardamom powder

A pinch of cinnamon powder

Dark chocolate shavings or coffee powder for garnish


Method:

Combine the yoghurt, espresso, powdered sugar, cardamom, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.

Spoon the mixture into serving bowls and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Just before serving, garnish with dark chocolate shavings or coffee powder for that cappuccino-like finish.

Did You Know?

Is cappuccino the world’s fave drink? As per a recent study by German website Coffeeness, “Cappuccino is the most popular coffee drink in the world,” preferred by 24 countries.