How to Make the Perfectly Rich Vietnamese Coffee
Picture this: a hot summer day, the sun blazing down on you mercilessly, and all you can think of is getting your hands on something refreshing and delicious to cool yourself down. Why not try Vietnamese iced coffee? This coffee is the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and rich flavors that will send your taste buds on a journey of pure bliss.
As a barista, I always encourage my customers to try something new, so why not make Vietnamese coffee at home with this easy recipe? The secret ingredient that makes this recipe stand out is sweetened condensed milk, which adds a unique sweetness and creaminess to the coffee that cannot be replicated by regular milk or cream.
But coffee lovers beware- prepare yourself for an absolute treat. This coffee is strong yet flavorful, providing the perfect balance for those who enjoy a rich deep coffee. But even those who do not like dark coffee can enjoy it with ice cubes to suit their liking!
In conclusion, have you tried Vietnamese iced coffee? If not, what are you waiting for? With its unique blend of sweetened condensed milk and robusta beans, this beverage stands out from other popular coffee drinks. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get brewing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for an indulgent and unique coffee experience, look no further than the Vietnamese Coffee Recipe. This recipe is undoubtedly one of my favorites, and it’s easy to see why.
Firstly, it contains a perfect balance of strong flavor and sweetness that will leave your taste buds tingling with pleasure. This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients that blend together so well that you’ll wonder how you lived without it.
The sweetened condensed milk adds depth and richness to the coffee while also giving it a sweet and creamy taste that is irresistible. It elevates the coffee to another level, making it perfect for anyone who loves an extra kick of sweetness in their coffee.
Moreover, the ingredients used in preparing this coffee, such as robusta beans, are carefully selected to ensure that every cup is rich and flavorful. Vietnamese coffee is famous worldwide for its bold taste, deep aroma, and complex flavor profile.
Lastly, whether you prefer your coffee hot or cold, this recipe has got you covered. You can enjoy it as Vietnamese hot coffee or iced coffee cà phê sữa đá (coffee with condensed milk on ice), which is perfect for those hot summer days.
All in all, the Vietnamese Coffee Recipe is a must-try if you’re looking for an authentic and genuinely satisfying coffee experience. So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try today and indulge in its rich flavors – your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
- Vietnamese coffee (or any strong, coarse ground coffee) 1-3 tablespoons
- Sweetened condensed milk 2 tablespoons
- Water (for brewing coffee and diluting the sweetened condensed milk) 6-8 ounces
- Ice cubes
Note: Vietnamese coffee can be made with two different kinds of beans – Arabica and Robusta. Robusta beans are the more popular choice for this style of coffee as they produce a strong, flavorful brew that can stand up to the sweetness of the condensed milk. Additionally, it is recommended to use a Vietnamese coffee filter (phin filter) to make the perfect cup of Vietnamese coffee.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you know why this Vietnamese coffee recipe is an essential in the world of coffee drinks, it’s time to learn how to make one.
Steps:
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First, you need to boil water using your coffee maker or kettle. Make sure it’s close to its boiling point.
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Next, add 1-3 tablespoons of coarsely ground coffee beans into your Vietnamese coffee filter. Use more coffee grounds if you want your coffee strong.
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Place the filter over a cup or a mug and pour hot water into it until it reaches the brim.
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Wait for a few seconds for the coffee to bloom before adding more water into the filter. Make sure you add enough hot water to fill your cup or mug, but leave enough space for milk.
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Close the lid of the filter and let the coffee steep for about 3-4 minutes or until all the water has dripped through the filter into the cup.
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While waiting, prepare a glass filled with ice cubes if you want to make Vietnamese iced coffee.
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In another small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk with boiling hot water (about 2-3 tablespoons) and stir until well combined.
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If you’re making regular Vietnamese coffee (cà phê sữa đá) pour the sweetened condensed milk mixture over ice cubes followed by the brewed coffee on top.
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If you’re making hot Vietnamese style coffee (cà phê sữa nóng), simply add the sweetened condensed milk mixture into your brewed coffee and stir until well combined.
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Lastly, garnish with some roasted egg yolk or whipped cream on top if you desire!
Enjoy your authentic Vietnamese brew at home!
Substitutions and Variations
Vietnamese coffee is a versatile drink that can be customized to suit individual preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
– Milk Substitutions: If you can’t find sweetened condensed milk, you can use regular milk or your preferred non-dairy alternative (almond, soy, etc.) and sweeten it with sugar or another sweetener of your choice.
– Sugar Substitutions: Instead of using sweetened condensed milk, some people prefer to sweeten their coffee with granulated sugar, brown sugar or maple syrup.
– Coffee Beans: If you don’t have access to Vietnamese coffee beans, you can use any dark roast coffee beans. However, for an authentic taste, look for robusta beans which are stronger and more flavorful than arabica beans.
– Egg Yolk: Some traditional Vietnamese coffee recipes call for adding an egg yolk to the coffee grounds before brewing. This gives the coffee a creamy texture and richer flavor. If eggs aren’t your thing, feel free to omit this ingredient.
– Iced Coffee Variations: For an added twist on the classic iced Vietnamese coffee recipe (sua da), try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or blending the ingredients together in a blender for an extra creamy texture.
Overall, feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations until you find your perfect cup of Vietnamese coffee.
Serving and Pairing
Vietnamese iced coffee is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods. The sweetened condensed milk in the recipe provides a creamy and sweet element that pairs well with savory dishes such as banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), and vermicelli bowls.
For those who prefer to enjoy their Vietnamese coffee as a dessert, it pairs well with sweet treats such as macarons, chocolate cake, and fruit tarts. The rich and sweet coffee flavor also complements ice cream, particularly flavors such as vanilla and chocolate.
When serving Vietnamese iced coffee, you can choose to present it in a tall glass over ice cubes or simply pour it over crushed ice for a slushie-like effect. For an added touch of indulgence, some people like to top off their Vietnamese coffee with whipped cream or even sprinkle cocoa powder on top.
Overall, the versatility of Vietnamese coffee makes it a go-to drink for any time of the day, whether you’re looking for something sweet or savory. Its complex flavors make it an ideal choice for pairing with various food items and desserts alike.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you want to prepare your Vietnamese coffee in advance, it’s possible to make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just mix the brewed coffee with sweetened condensed milk according to the recipe and keep it in an airtight container.
For best results, I suggest keeping the prepared mixture in the fridge without adding ice cubes until ready to serve. This way, your drink won’t become diluted once the ice melts.
However, if you prefer your Vietnamese coffee iced and ready to drink, prepare it with ice cubes and store it for up to six hours in the fridge before serving.
As for reheating, you should avoid doing so. If you plan on enjoying hot Vietnamese coffee and have leftovers, instead of reheating them, I recommend making a fresh pot or cup. Reheated Vietnamese coffee tends to lose its rich and deep flavors as well as the signature froth caused by brewing with a phin filter.
Overall, preparing Vietnamese coffee can be a great way of enjoying a refreshing drink with rich flavor. With these tips on hand, you can prepare your own at home and enjoy it either hot or iced.
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want to make the perfect Vietnamese coffee, here are some tips to ensure that your recipe turns out to be robust and flavorful. First things first, make sure to use high-quality ground coffee beans that are specifically roasted for making Vietnamese coffee. Using lower quality or generic brands can result in a subpar taste that won’t do justice to the rich deep flavors of this popular coffee drink.
Next, when boiling water for your coffee, be sure to bring it close to boiling point but not too hot, as burnt coffee can ruin the taste. A good rule of thumb is to heat up 6-8 ounces of water until it is just below boiling point; this way, you’ll get a strong and flavorful cup of joe.
Another important tip is to use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk or creamer; it’s what makes Vietnamese coffee distinct from other types of coffee. You can also choose to mix two different kinds of condensed milk for an even richer taste.
If you decide to make iced Vietnamese coffee (cà phê sữa đá), the trick is to add two tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk directly into the glass, then pour in the concentrated hot coffee on top of it. This way, you’ll get a stunning display of colors as well as an incredibly sweet and creamy cold coffee beverage.
When using a phin filter to brew your coffee, be patient and let it drip slowly. Rushing through the process will result in a weak brew with minimal depth or complexity. While brewing your coffee on a phin filter may take longer than using other methods such as traditional drip machines or French presses, but the end result will definitely be worth it.
Finally, for an authentic touch, consider adding an egg yolk into your Vietnamese iced coffee; this gives it a creamy texture that meshes well with the boldness of the robusta beans used in this style of coffee. By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your Vietnamese coffee recipe is perfect every time.
FAQ
Now, let me answer a few common questions about the Vietnamese coffee recipe to help ensure you get the most out of this delightful coffee experience.
What makes Vietnamese coffee different?
The special combination of weather conditions, bean makeup, and phin filter brewing process in Vietnam results in a unique coffee experience that sets it apart from the rest of the world. Expect a powerful and intense flavor profile, with intricate taste undertones that range from sweet and invigorating to savory and grounded.
What is the formula for Vietnamese coffee?
For making Vietnamese coffee, start by putting 3 tablespoons of Trung Nguyen brand ground coffee in a filter. Follow it by adding 1-3 tablespoons of Longevity brand sweetened condensed milk as per your liking. Then pour 6-8 ounces of water, heated to almost boiling point, into it and let it steep. The strength of your coffee can be adjusted by adding more or less water.
What does Vietnamese coffee have in it?
When making a Vietnamese iced coffee, it is important to utilize a phin filter, strong robusta beans, and sweet condensed milk for that authentic taste.
Why does Vietnamese coffee use condensed milk?
Vietnamese coffee is popularly known for its intense bitterness which is balanced out by the addition of sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a bittersweet drink that can be enjoyed either hot or cold.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re a coffee lover looking for something new and bold, then Vietnamese coffee is definitely the way to go. This coffee recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor. The combination of sweetened condensed milk and robusta beans creates a strong, flavorful cup of coffee that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe allows for variations and substitutions, so you can tailor it to your own taste preferences. Whether served hot or iced, Vietnamese coffee is sure to become your new favorite coffee drink.
Finally, I urge you to give this recipe a try! It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an early morning pick-me-up or a mid-afternoon treat. Follow the steps carefully and you’ll end up with an authentic and delicious cup of Vietnamese-style coffee.
Vietnamese Coffee Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 6 ounces black brewed coffee (very strong)
Instructions
- Pour the milk into the bottom of an 8 ounce glass.
- Carefully pour in the coffee, trying not to disturb the layer of milk.
- Stir the milk up from bottom and sip the coffee (there will probably be some milk left in the bottom of the glass when you are finished).
- Variation: This coffee may also be served iced; add some ice cubes on top of the layer of condensed milk and proceed as above.