Italian for ‘milk coffee’, latte has now seemingly overtaken the traditional cup of tea for many, as the morning drink of choice. Made by combining steamed milk with espresso, it’s less frothy than a cappuccino, but pretty similar. However, there’s no need to visit big coffee chains for a latte, if you don’t have a coffee machine of your own. If you’re vegan, don’t order syrups in coffee shops, as many (like caramel) are made with condensed milk or cream. Just make simple recipes with oat milk like this Cinnamon Vanilla Dandelion Latte (Minimalist Baker)
If you’re pregnant/breastfeeding, NHS recommends no more than 2 weak cups of tea (or 1 cup of weak coffee) to reduce risk of miscarriage and restless babies – or not at all. Also avoid caffeine for children, urinary continence and if you get the jitters! Check safety caveats for herbal teas, as some have contraindications. If you like ‘builder’s tea with four sugars, just gradually reduce over time to adjust taste buds, rather than using dodgy artificial sweeteners.
Date-Sweetened Almond Butter Latte (Rainbow Plant Life) is rich in calcium and protein (choose an organic brand of almond butter, to avoid brands that use migratory beekeeping). Flavoured with orange peel and cayenne pepper, this is an ideal winter drink.
Creamy Protein Mocha Latte (Rainbow Plant Life) is made with soy milk. Sweetened with maple syrup, and finished with warming ginger and cinnamon.
Cashew Milk Vegan Lattes (Crowded Kitchen) are made with cashew milk and nourishing spices. Choose from 9 colours, using superfoods!
