How To Make Vietnamese Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)
Vietnamese iced coffee, or cà phê sữa đá, is a beloved beverage known for its strong flavor and sweet, creamy finish. Here's a comprehensive guide to making this delicious drink at home.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Vietnamese ground coffee: Typically, Robusta beans are used for their strong, bold flavor.
- 3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces hot water: Close to boiling point.
- Ice
Equipment
- Vietnamese coffee filter (phin)
- Glass or cup: A clear glass is preferred for visual appeal.
- Kettle: To heat the water.
Instructions
- Prepare the Phin
- Add 3 tablespoons of Vietnamese ground coffee into the phin.
- Gently press the coffee down with the gravity insert
- Add Condensed Milk
- Pour about 3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk into the bottom of your glass. Adjust the amount based on your desired sweetness.
- Add Hot Water
- Place the phin on top of the glass.
- Pour a small amount of hot water over the coffee to bloom it. Let it sit for about 30 seconds.
- Fill the phin with hot water. The coffee should start dripping slowly into the glass.
- Brewing Time
- Allow the coffee to drip for about 4-5 minutes. The dripping should be slow and steady.
- Mix and Serve
- Once brewing is complete, stir the coffee and condensed milk together.
- Fill another glass with ice and pour the coffee mixture over the ice.
Tips for the Perfect Brew
- Use High-Quality Coffee: Opt for authentic Vietnamese coffee brands like BeanBeansCoffee or the best flavor.
- Proper Water Temperature: Ensure your water is close to boiling (around 95°C) for optimal extraction.
- Experiment: Adjust the coffee-to-water ratio and sweetness to match your taste.