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Milk frother

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A battery powered milk frother wand
Plunger type milk frother
Use of a milk frother

A milk frother is a utensil used for frothing milk, to be added to coffee (cappucino, latte, etc.).[1] Its working mechanism is based on milk aeration. A thick and heavy foam is created by agitating air into the liquid. The tiny bubbles, which are formed during this process, make the milk texture lighter and increase its volume. There are three major types of milk frothers – manual, handheld electric, and automatic.[2] A cappucino machine may have a steam nozzle which can be used to froth the milk.[1] Some devices are able to froth and warm the liquid simultaneously.[3]

Types

Manual

The manual type of frother requires human power to make a foam. This type resembles a french press, and makes the foam by moving the plunger up and down [1] The handle is attached to a mesh screen and sits tightly in a glass or stainless steel cup. While frothing, the mesh screen moves within the cup and generates foam. It takes 10-20 seconds to double the volume of milk. The cup has a special narrow spout for pouring foam art. These foam makers are easy to use and clean. They are multifunctional and can be also used for making tea or coffee.[4]

Handheld Electric

A battery powered milk frother wand is like a small electric mixer.[5] It froths the milk by spinning its attachment. It can also beat eggs or whipping cream in small quantities. When the device is turned on, the whisk creates a vortex and injects air into the liquid. The foam maker is operated by hand until the milk reaches the desired consistency. The handheld devices are devices are supposed to do the frothing faster and better than manual tools. These appliances are cordless, what makes them compact and portable.[2]

Automatic

Automatic frothers run on electricity and provide a hands-free operation. They include a carafe, a power base, and a frothing disk. They come in different styles and may have a number of functions. Most models are equipped with induction heating to warm the liquid.[3] They operate with one press of a button and have an automatic switch off. Electric frothers are faster and provide high-quality foam. They have a large capacity to prepare multiple beverages. They are the best variant to make cream-like drinks at home.[2]

References

  1. ^ a b c "Milk Frother". Retrieved 2018-11-26.
  2. ^ a b c "What Is a Milk Frother and How Does It Work | MilkFrotherTop". milkfrothertop.com. Retrieved 2019-02-27.
  3. ^ a b "What is a Milk Frother? (with pictures)". wiseGEEK. Retrieved 2019-02-27.
  4. ^ January 11, Erica on; 2017 (2017-01-11). "8 Ways to Froth Milk". The Pioneer Woman. Retrieved 2019-02-27. {{cite web}}: |last2= has numeric name (help)CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  5. ^ "How to use a Milk Frother". Retrieved 2018-11-26.