I have the Delonghi Dedica EC680M, recently swapped the stock steam wand for the Rancilio wand. I have pretty much 0 experience steaming milk, and this is the first time I’ve been able to have milk lay on top without being a formless blob! Just super excited and wanted to share lol
I steam milk for latte’s quite a bit. Tip carafe so wand tip is at the side just under the surface of the milk, with the stem against the spout. Engage steam just enough to you hear a tearing sound. Gradually lower the carafe to maintain the tearing sound for 17 seconds,(the sound changes) then immerse the tip until the carafe is getting too hot to touch. Then a tap on the counter, and a couple swirls to break up bigger bubbles.
I would also like to add that the milk and foam separate very quickly. With my machine it starts even before the milk is fully ready, so i like to pour the steamed milk into another carafe and back then the taps to ensure it is properly mixed for best results.
Noted! Hopefully I’ll have more successful attempts to post in the future 😁
Don’t feel bad if you can’t get it to work. I’ve been making lattes at home for around 8 years and I’ve never managed to get the foam consistent.
Also just additional information: I know it’s not great but it’s at least a start! Due to girlfriends allergies, all I have to work with for the time being is oat milk (Chobani Extra Creamy). I’m thinking I could get better results with more practice, but I’m not sure if there’s only a degree of perfection I can reach using this milk alternative. I suppose time will tell
Check out Lance Hendrick’s 30 min milk steaming tutorial on Youtube, followed by his 30 min tutorial on latte art basics. I find his instructional methods easy to follow and implement with relatively quick and good results.