Vietnamese coffee is renowned for its distinctive and robust flavors, shaped by a rich cultural and historical backdrop. Introduced during the French colonial period, it has evolved into a cherished daily tradition in Vietnam. Central to this tradition is the traditional drip brew method using a phin filter, which allows for a slow, rich extraction. This collection of recipes highlights classic Vietnamese coffee drinks, including Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk), Cà Phê Sữa nóng (Vietnamese Hot Coffee with Condensed Milk), Bạc Xỉu (Vietnamese White Coffee) and Cà Phê Đen (Original Vietnamese Black Coffee).

Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Vietnamese Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk)

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee (Trung Nguyên is a popular choice)
  • 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup of hot water
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

Prepare the Phin Filter:

  • Add 2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee into the phin filter.
  • Place the phin filter over a glass or a mug.
  • Place the press inside the filter and gently press down.

Brewing:

  • Pour a small amount of hot water (just enough to moisten the coffee) into the filter.
  • Wait for 20-30 seconds for the coffee to bloom.
  • Slowly add the remaining hot water to the filter.

Combine:

  • Place 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk at the bottom of a glass.
  • Once the coffee has finished dripping, stir well to combine the coffee and condensed milk.

Serve:

  • Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  • Pour the coffee mixture over the ice and stir well. Enjoy!

 

Cà Phê Đen (Vietnamese Black Coffee)

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee

  • 1 cup of hot water

  • Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Phin Filter:

  • Add 2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee into the phin filter.

  • Place the phin filter over a glass or a mug.

  • Place the press inside the filter and gently press down.

Brewing:

  • Pour a small amount of hot water (just enough to moisten the coffee) into the filter.

  • Wait for 20-30 seconds for the coffee to bloom.

  • Slowly add the remaining hot water to the filter.

Serve:

  • Enjoy the coffee hot, or add ice cubes if you prefer it cold. Cà Phê Đen is typically enjoyed without any milk or sugar, highlighting the robust flavor of the coffee. Enjoy!

Cà Phê Sữa Nóng (Vietnamese Hot Coffee with Condensed Milk)

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee

  • 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 cup of hot water

Instructions:

Prepare the Phin Filter:

  • Add 2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee into the phin filter.

  • Place the phin filter over a glass or a mug.

  • Place the press inside the filter and gently press down.

Brewing:

  • Pour a small amount of hot water (just enough to moisten the coffee) into the filter.

  • Wait for 20-30 seconds for the coffee to bloom.

  • Slowly add the remaining hot water to the filter.

Combine:

  • Place 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk at the bottom of a cup.

  • Once the coffee has finished dripping, stir well to combine the coffee and condensed milk.

Serve:

  • Serve hot. Enjoy!

 

Bạc Xỉu (Vietnamese White Coffee)

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon of ground Vietnamese coffee

  • 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk

  • 1/4 cup of hot water

  • 1/2 cup of hot milk

  • Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Phin Filter:

  • Add 1 tablespoon of ground Vietnamese coffee into the phin filter.

  • Place the phin filter over a glass or a mug.

  • Place the press inside the filter and gently press down.

Brewing:

  • Pour a small amount of hot water (just enough to moisten the coffee) into the filter.

  • Wait for 20-30 seconds for the coffee to bloom.

  • Slowly add the remaining hot water to the filter.

Combine:

  • Add 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk at the bottom of a glass.

  • Once the coffee has finished dripping, pour the coffee over the condensed milk and stir well.

Add Milk:

  • Heat the milk until it’s hot but not boiling.

  • Pour the hot milk into the coffee mixture and stir well.

Serve:

  • You can enjoy it hot or add ice cubes to serve it cold. Enjoy!

Vietnamese coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s a cultural experience steeped in history and tradition. From the creamy sweetness of Cà Phê Sữa Đá to the unique of Bạc Xỉu, each cup tells a story of Vietnam’s vibrant coffee culture. Whether you’re enjoying a hot cup on a chilly morning or a refreshing iced coffee on a warm day, these recipes offer a delightful glimpse into the heart of Vietnamese coffee culture. Embrace the flavours, savour the moment, and let each sip transport you to the bustling streets of Vietnam. Enjoy!