Unique Coffee Drinking Styles of Vietnamese People
Coffee, though originating from the West, has taken on a unique identity in Vietnam. Here, it’s not just a beverage but a refined pleasure, an integral part of the cultural fabric. Introduced by French missionaries in 1857, coffee initially seemed like a luxurious, exotic drink reserved for the French elite in Vietnam. However, the fertile Central Highlands proved ideal for coffee cultivation, making it more accessible to the general population. Today, this aromatic beverage, with its slightly bitter yet profound aftertaste, has captured the hearts of the Vietnamese.
Unlike Westerners who might drink coffee in upscale cafes, or Americans who use it as a quick pick-me-up, Vietnamese people savour coffee quietly, often alone with a book or some music. But coffee also brings people together. “Would you like some coffee?” is a common invitation in Vietnam, signalling a get-together with friends or family. With its deep, slightly fatty, earthy aroma that lingers on the tongue, coffee satisfies the palate and relaxes the mind.
What makes Vietnamese coffee unique is its varied brewing methods, flavours, and drinking styles, which reflect the personality and age of each individual. Each region in Vietnam has its distinct way of enjoying coffee.
Egg Coffee (Cà phê trứng)
Egg coffee is a culinary symbol of Hanoi, a must-try for every visitor. Invented in the 1940s by Mr. Nguyen Van Giang, this beverage stands out with its rich, creamy taste and unique texture. After brewing through a filter, the coffee is mixed with egg yolks, fresh milk or condensed milk, and a bit of sugar. The coffee is then placed in a bowl of hot water to keep warm, creating a unique coffee experience that is unforgettable.
Yogurt Coffee (Cà phê sữa chua)
Yogurt coffee is a perfect blend of the strong, bitter flavour of coffee brewed in a filter and the sweet, creamy richness of yogurt. This popular choice, especially on hot days, is favoured by people in the southern region due to the year-round warm climate. The unique flavour of yogurt coffee not only cools the body during hot summer days but also makes enjoying coffee incredibly interesting and different.
Coconut Coffee (Cà phê dừa)
Coconut coffee is another beloved variation, known for its creamy, refreshing taste from coconut flesh combined with the strong, bitter flavour of coffee. Ground coconut flesh and a bit of sugar are added to the coffee, creating a special and attractive beverage for those who love natural flavours.
Vietnamese Drip Coffee (Cà phê phin)
Vietnamese drip coffee is an icon of the country’s coffee culture. This method, introduced during the colonial period, is popular from small street cafes to high-end restaurants. Coffee is brewed from finely ground roasted beans through a small filter, allowing each drop to fall slowly. This process creates a strong coffee and a unique tasting experience. The anticipation of each drop makes the enjoyment even sweeter, whether it’s hot black coffee, coffee with condensed milk, or iced coffee.
Iced Milk Coffee (Cà phê sữa đá)
Iced milk coffee is perfect for hot summer days, ubiquitous on the bustling sidewalks of Saigon. Brewed coffee is poured over ice and mixed with sweetened condensed milk, creating a delicious, refreshing drink for any occasion. This coffee combines the distinctive aroma of coffee with the sweet creaminess of condensed milk in perfect harmony.
North vs. South: A Tale of Two Coffee Cultures
Coffee in Hanoi often has a more bitter, robust, and intense flavour compared to the sweeter, lighter coffee preferred in the South. Hanoi’s egg coffee and various types of drip coffee are served elaborately, sometimes with sugar or milk. This diversity in coffee styles reflects the depth and richness of Vietnamese coffee culture, making the coffee experience in the North distinct from that in the South.
So, whether you’re savouring the rich, creamy egg coffee in Hanoi or enjoying a refreshing coconut coffee on a hot Saigon day, Vietnamese coffee offers a unique journey into the heart of the country’s culture and lifestyle. Embrace the flavours, and let each sip tell you a story about Vietnam’s coffee heritage.