Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, with millions of people enjoying its rich, bold flavour every day. Some people prefer their coffee black, savouring its strong, bitter taste, while others prefer it with milk, seeking a smoother, creamier flavour. While both options have their own distinct tastes and appeal and at the risk of starting a coffee war, science points to the idea that coffee with milk technically should taste better than black coffee.
In the ancient world, there were several reasons why coffee with milk was often considered to be a superior drink compared to black coffee. The first was the added nutritional value and the second and perhaps the more obvious reason was that milk helps to balance out the bitter flavour of coffee, creating a more well-rounded and enjoyable taste. For coffee aficionados, the idea of covering up the subtle notes of a beautiful blend may seem sacrilegious. But for those who find black coffee too bitter, adding milk helps to tone down the bitterness, making the coffee much more palatable.
A milk protein, such as whey protein, softens coffee's bitterness by binding to polyphenolic compounds, such as tannin. While tannins are beneficial to the body, they are astringent in taste and detract from the flavour of the coffee. In this case, the flavour of the molecules is hidden by proteins binding to them.
Another reason why coffee with milk is often seen as being better than black coffee is that it is generally easier on the stomach. Black coffee is known to be acidic, which can sometimes lead to digestive issues, such as heartburn or acid reflux. By adding milk, the acidity of the coffee is reduced, making it much gentler on the digestive system. This is especially important for those who suffer from digestive problems and who cannot handle the harshness of black coffee, although we bet some lactose-intolerant people may not agree with this one.
Additionally, coffee with milk provides a more versatile drink that can be enjoyed at different times of the day. Black coffee is typically consumed as a morning pick-me-up, but coffee with milk can be enjoyed as an after-dinner treat, or even as a late-night drink. Its versatility is one of its greatest assets, as it can be enjoyed in different ways at different times of the day.
Overall, coffee with milk offers a number of benefits that black coffee simply cannot match. Its ability to balance the bitterness of coffee, reduce acidity, add a creamy texture, and provide versatility make it a preferred choice for many people. Whether you are a coffee aficionado or simply looking for a smooth, creamy drink, coffee with milk is definitely worth a try.