Café au lait (milk coffee)

1. Brew a batch of strong, hot coffee (traditionally filter or espresso).

2. Heat the milk in a small saucepan below boiling point, until it steams.

3. Work the milk to a light foam with a hand frother or by whisking well.

4. Pour the hot coffee into a large, wide cup.

5. Pour over an equal amount of warm milk for a creamy, light-brown drink.

6. Sweeten to taste and serve at breakfast, with brioche or a croissant.

Tip: Café au lait is the classic French breakfast drink – roughly equal parts strong coffee and warm milk. The large, wide cup (a "bol") is no accident: traditionally you can dunk a croissant or brioche in it.