Some mornings ask very little of us — just to be met gently. This is the latte for those mornings. The cardamom does most of the work. Your only job is to stand near the stove and breathe.
What you’ll need
- 1 cup whole milk (or oat milk, generously)
- 1 shot of strong coffee, or 1/3 cup very strong brewed coffee
- 4 green cardamom pods, gently crushed
- A small slice of vanilla bean, or 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp raw honey, or maple syrup
- A pinch of flaky sea salt
How to make it
One. Put the milk into a small saucepan. Drop in the crushed cardamom pods and the vanilla. Set the heat to low. Do not stir. Do not hurry.
Two. While the milk is taking its time, brew your coffee. Strong, but not bitter. Pour it into your favourite mug — the one with the small chip you love.
Three. When the milk is steaming but not boiling — perhaps eight minutes in — whisk it briskly with a small whisk or a fork until a soft foam appears on top.
Four. Strain the milk over the coffee. Stir in the honey and the tiniest pinch of salt. The salt is the secret.
Five. Sit by a window. Do not check your phone. Drink slowly.
The morning does not need to be productive to be beautiful.
If this resonated
Receive future entries — gently, never often.
An optional letter in your inbox when a new piece of slow living is shared.
More from the journal
Mindfully Modern 