🇫🇷 French Cuisine · Drinks

Café au Lait

Prep

5 mins

Cook

5 mins

Serves

1

Difficulty

Easy

Strong drip coffee poured simultaneously with hot steamed milk into a wide bowl, a classic French morning ritual.

Ingredients

  • 600g fresh mussels
  • 1 cup egg noodles
  • 1 tbsp sliced leeks
  • 1 1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup leeks, sliced
  • a handful of fresh tarragon, chopped
  • Dijon mustard, to taste
  • 400ml chicken stock
  • 1 tsp bay leaves
  • 1 cup celery stalks, sliced
  • a generous spoonful of lemon zest

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the baguette and dry white wine in a saucepan, blender, or pitcher, stirring well.

  2. 2

    Add the grated nutmeg and Gruyère cheese, stirring gently so their flavor infuses the mixture.

  3. 3

    Heat gently over low heat (or blend, or steep, depending on the drink) until well combined and fragrant, about 5 mins.

  4. 4

    Strain through a fine sieve to remove any solids, if needed.

  5. 5

    Sweeten to taste with crème fraîche, adjusting gradually until the balance feels right.

  6. 6

    Chill in the refrigerator, or pour straight over ice, depending on whether it is served cold or hot.

  7. 7

    Garnish with tarragon just before serving.

  8. 8

    Pour into your favorite glass or cup and enjoy.

Tips

Adjust the sweetness gradually, tasting as you go — you can always add more crème fraîche, but you cannot take it away.

Serve in a chilled glass for the most refreshing result on a hot day.