Refreshing Iced Coffee Recipe: Perfect for Hot Summer Days

Do you know what’s better than a regular cup of coffee? A frosty and refreshing iced coffee, especially in the hot summer days! And today, I am excited to share with you my favorite recipe for Vietnamese Iced Coffee, also known as “ca phe sua da.”

As an experienced barista, I have tried and tested countless coffee recipes, but this one never fails to impress me. It’s a perfect blend of bold coffee with the sweetness of condensed milk, which creates a unique flavor profile that you won’t find anywhere else.

With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can recreate the same delicious Vietnamese-style iced coffee at home. Trust me when I say it is worth the effort! Once you take your first sip, you’ll realize why this drink is so popular not only in Vietnam but all around the world.

So grab your favorite mug and let’s get started brewing some unforgettable iced coffee!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Iced Coffee {ca Phe Vietnam]
Iced Coffee {ca Phe Vietnam]

Are you looking for a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy a cup of coffee during the hot summer months? Look no further than Vietnamese iced coffee, also known as “ca phe sua da.” Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!

What sets Vietnamese iced coffee apart is the use of sweetened condensed milk, which adds a creamy and indulgent flavor. It’s like a dessert and coffee in one! Plus, the slow drip from the phin filter infuses the coffee with rich and bold flavors that are perfect for waking up your taste buds on a hot day.

Not only does this recipe offer a unique and delightful taste experience, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can brew Vietnamese iced coffee right from the comfort of your own home.

So why not elevate your morning routine with a little bit of excitement? Brew yourself a tall glass of Vietnamese iced coffee and start your day off on the right foot. Once you try it, I guarantee it will become your new favorite summer beverage.

Ingredient List

 A refreshing escape in a glass.
A refreshing escape in a glass.

Get ready for the ingredients

  • Coffee grounds: 2 tablespoons or 14g of ground coffee (dark roast coffee beans are preferred)
  • Boiling water: 1/4 cup or 60 ml of water (195 - 200°F or 90 - 95°C)
  • Condensed milk: 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
  • Ice cubes: 4-6 cubes

Note: It’s important to use a Vietnamese coffee phin filter. It has two parts: the upper part which is for holding the coffee grounds, and the lower part which acts as a filter chamber. You can also use other types of coffee makers from espresso machines to instant coffee, but it may affect the flavor and aroma.

The Recipe How-To

 Perfect for coffee lovers seeking a bit of adventure.
Perfect for coffee lovers seeking a bit of adventure.

Here comes the fun part: brewing and assembling your Vietnamese iced coffee treat! It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get brewing!

Step 1: BREW YOUR VIETNAMESE COFFEE

To make the perfect Vietnamese coffee, you will need to use a phin filter, which is a traditional Vietnamese coffee filter. First, boil around 250 ml of water until it reaches 195-200 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, put 2 tablespoons (14g) of coarse ground coffee into the filter chamber, and gently tamp it down. You want to make sure that the coffee is distributed evenly throughout the chamber. After that, simply place the filter chamber onto a condensed milk glass, and pour approximately 50 ml of hot water into the chamber. Close the lid of the filter, sit back and relax, and wait for about 4-5 minutes until your coffee has completely drip-brewed through.

Step 2: ADD THE CONDENSED MILK

Once your brewed coffee is ready, it’s time to add some sweetness to it with condensed milk. Using a spoon, add about 2 tablespoons of thick and creamy sweetened condensed milk into the bottom of a tall glass. If you prefer things sweeter, feel free to add more; if you like things less sweet, reduce according to your taste buds.

Step 3: MAKE IT ICED

Now that your sweetened condensed milk is in your glass, it’s time to pour in your freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee. Gently pour it over a few ice cubes until you fill three quarters of the glass.

Step 4: ENJOY YOUR STUNNING VIETNAMESE ICED COFFEE

Stir everything well till your mixed ingredients create that creamy layer on top with ‘tiger stripes’. Add more ice cubes if needed, and enjoy your delicious Vietnamese iced coffee – a perfect balance of strong, rich coffee with sweet condensed milk.

Congratulations! You have now mastered the art of making authentic Vietnamese iced coffee. Serve it with some breakfast pastries, or enjoy a glass on a hot day!

Substitutions and Variations

 The perfect pick-me-up to fuel your day.
The perfect pick-me-up to fuel your day.

If you’re looking to spice up your iced coffee, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to consider. Here are a few ideas to get started:

– Different Types of Milk: If you’re not a fan of condensed milk or just want to try something different, you can substitute it with regular milk or any non-dairy milk. You can also try using flavored creamers or add a splash of heavy cream for a richer taste.

– Roast Type: When brewing your Vietnamese iced coffee, try experimenting with different roast types of coffee beans— dark roasts work well for this recipe. You can also mix in chicory root to replicate the famous Café Du Monde blend.

– Cold Brew: Make the iced coffee using cold brew instead of hot brewed coffee for a smoother and less acidic taste.

– Espresso Shots: for an extra caffeine kick add a shot or two of espresso to your Vietnamese iced coffee.

– Instant Coffee: Although not an ideal option, you can use instant coffee granules by dissolving them in boiled water to make this recipe quickly and easily.

– Different Sweeteners: For a healthier alternative to sweetened condensed milk, try sweetening with honey or maple syrup which will impart their unique flavors.

No matter what variations or substitutions you choose, one thing is certain – this refreshing beverage will be the perfect pick-me-up on a hot summer day!

Serving and Pairing

 Dare to try something new that will awaken your senses.
Dare to try something new that will awaken your senses.

Once your Vietnamese iced coffee is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy it! The traditional way to serve is to pour the coffee into a tall glass filled with ice cubes. You can then add condensed milk to taste, depending on how sweet you like your coffee. I recommend starting with 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk and adjusting from there.

If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, you can also top off your glass with whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness. Some people even add a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top or a shot of flavored syrup such as vanilla or caramel.

As for pairing, this coffee is perfect on its own as a refreshing drink during warm summer days, but you can also have it with some light snacks such as fresh fruit or a croissant for a delightful breakfast. Alternatively, you can pair it with desserts such as cheesecake or tiramisu for a decadent treat.

Overall, Vietnamese iced coffee is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods. Whether you prefer it simple or elevated, this coffee recipe is sure to be the perfect addition to any meal or occasion.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Embrace the strong, smooth, and intense taste of Vietnamese coffee.
Embrace the strong, smooth, and intense taste of Vietnamese coffee.

Vietnamese iced coffee is best served fresh, but it can be stored for later use in the refrigerator or freezer. To make sure that the taste and texture are preserved, store the coffee and condensed milk separately. Simply take out what you need from the fridge or freezer, mix them together, and add ice.

To store the brewed coffee, let it cool to room temperature first before transferring it to an airtight container. When refrigerating, make sure that it’s properly sealed to prevent any odors from affecting the taste of the coffee. You can store it for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Condensed milk can be stored at room temperature until opened, but once opened, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to 2 weeks stored this way.

Reheating your Vietnamese iced coffee isn’t recommended as it may alter the flavor profile of your drink. However, if you have leftover condensed milk, you can use it in other recipes like desserts or even as a sweetener in your tea or coffee.

Pro tip: For busy mornings, you can prepare your Vietnamese iced coffee ahead of time by brewing a large batch of coffee and placing it in a pitcher with condensed milk. This will ensure that you can have delicious and refreshing iced coffee anytime without having to brew a fresh cup every time.

Tips for Perfect Results

 This cold beverage is an excellent antidote to hot summer days.
This cold beverage is an excellent antidote to hot summer days.

The perfect iced coffee should be refreshing, bold, and sweet. Here are some tips to ensure that your next cup of Vietnamese iced coffee turns out perfectly every time.

First off, let’s talk about the coffee beans. To make Vietnamese iced coffee, you’ll want to use a good quality dark roast coffee. Brands like Trung Nguyen or Cafe du Monde work well. You can also experiment with different roasts and brands to find what works best for you.

Next up is the grind. We recommend using coarse ground coffee for your Vietnamese coffee phin filter, as this will produce a more flavorful brew. Make sure to fill the filter chamber evenly with grounds and press gently with the filter presser.

When brewing the coffee, use hot water between 195-200 degrees Fahrenheit. Pour hot water into the filter chamber and wait for the water to drip through into the condensed milk glass below.

To make your iced coffee sweeter, you can add more or less sweetened condensed milk according to your taste preferences. Two tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk is a good starting point for a 12-ounce serving size.

For a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee da recipe, fill a separate tall glass with ice cubes and pour in your brewed coffee. If you prefer a cafe sua da recipe, add cold milk or cream to your glass of iced coffee.

Finally, don’t forget about presentation! Top off your glass with a sprinkle of ground coffee on top or add crushed ice cubes for an extra cooling effect.

Follow these tips and you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious cup of sweet and bold Vietnamese iced coffee anytime!

FAQ

As with most recipes, you might have a few lingering questions while making the Vietnamese iced coffee. In this section of the article, I will try to answer some of your frequently asked questions (FAQ) about how to make Vietnamese iced coffee. These tips and tricks will ensure that you achieve the perfect texture and taste every time you make this delicious coffee beverage.

How to make Vietnamese iced coffee with phin?

As a barista, to make a refreshing brew, the phin should be filled up to 3/4 with hot water, which is equivalent to roughly 4 oz of hot water. Afterward, cover the phin with a lid, and the coffee will start dripping into your cup slowly. It is crucial to be careful while handling the phin and lid as they may be hot.

Now, to relish the full flavor of the coffee, take a spoon and mix the brewed coffee thoroughly. After the coffee is adequately stirred, fill the remainder of the cup with ice. As a result, you will have a refreshing glass of coffee to savor. So, be careful and cautious while enjoying your coffee!

How to make Vietnamese iced coffee?

To make Vietnamese coffee, start by boiling water until it reaches a temperature of 195-200°F. Next, take a phin filter and add in 2 tablespoons (14g) of ground Vietnamese coffee, shaking it to even out the grounds. On top of the coffee grounds, place a gravity press. In your glass, add 0.5 oz of condensed milk. Place the phin filter plate and chamber on top of the glass and allow the coffee to drip through.

What makes Vietnamese iced coffee special?

To make an authentic Vietnamese iced coffee, three essential components are needed: the use of a phin filter to brew the coffee, robusta beans, and condensed milk for sweetness.

How is Vietnamese iced coffee different?

When it comes to sweetness, Vietnamese iced coffee stands out from Thai iced coffee. This is mainly due to the fact that the former typically employs sweetened, condensed milk as both the creamer and sweetener, while the latter can use a range of ingredients such as condensed milk, evaporated milk, regular milk, and sugar.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, there is nothing quite like a refreshing glass of iced coffee on a hot summer day. Making Vietnamese iced coffee at home can be easy and cost-effective when you have the right recipe and ingredients. The combination of brewed coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and ice cubes creates a beverage that is both creamy and bold in flavor.

Now that you know how to make this delicious drink, it’s time to indulge in your very own cup of iced coffee ca phe Vietnam. Whether you’re sipping it while lounging in the sun or enjoying it as a pick-me-up during work hours, this beverage is sure to satisfy. With substitutions and variations available, you can even experiment to find your perfect cup of coffee.

So grab your phin filter, some dark roast coffee grounds, sweetened condensed milk, and get ready to make yourself an unbeatable cup of Vietnamese iced coffee. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll never go back to plain old iced coffee again!

Iced Coffee {ca Phe Vietnam]

Iced Coffee {ca Phe Vietnam] Recipe

Taken from an 08 magazine article - I am unsure of serves as I have not tried it - perhaps 3 or 4 but it would depend on how strong and/or how sweet you take your coffee !!
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Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 0 mins
Course Beverage
Cuisine Vietnamese
Calories 910.3 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 250 ml freshly brewed coffee
  • 250 ml condensed milk
  • ice cube

Instructions
 

  • Pour coffee evenly among serving glasses.
  • Top with condensed milk.
  • Add lots of ice cubes.
  • Serve immediately.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 279gCalories: 910.3kcalCarbohydrates: 154.1gProtein: 22.5gFat: 24.7gSaturated Fat: 15.6gCholesterol: 96.3mgSodium: 361.5mgSugar: 154.1g
Keyword < 15 Mins, Asian, Beverages, Easy, Healthy, High In..., Summer
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