The first time I had a Vietnamese coffee made and served the traditional way was in, of all places, Dak lak, Vietnam. We were visiting friends who suggested what turned out to be a great Vietnamese restaurant. It served big, flavorful bowls of pho and Vietnamese grilled pork chops with rice noodles (we have a similar Vietnamese noodle salad recipe).
The food was great, but on a whim, I ordered a cup of Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa dá)), and I was hooked!
What is Vietnamese Coffee & Why is it so popular?
Vietnamese coffee is a delightful combination of robust flavors, rich aromas, and a cultural legacy that transforms a simple cup into an experience. Known for its strong brew and sweet, creamy finish, Vietnamese coffee is a treat for the senses. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or someone looking to explore a new brewing tradition, this guide will show you how to make authentic Vietnamese coffee at home.
How is Vietnamese Coffee Brewed?
The Vietnamese coffee was rich, flavorful, sweet and perfect on a cool day, but the method for brewing and serving the coffee is what really impressed me. The coffee was brought out with a layer of condensed milk at the bottom of a small, clear thick glass, with a stainless steel Phin Vietnamese filter sitting on top.
When our coffees were done dripping, we stirred them to combine the coffee and condensed milk. Mine was ready to enjoy. John poured his coffee into the glass full of ice, and voila! As coffee addicts even before this experience, we had to go to the one Asian market in town to buy some of those Vietnamese style stainless steel coffee filters (Phin filters) so we could make our own Vietnamese coffee recipe.
We also got our hands on some of the Vietnamese coffee that the restaurant used. The condensed milk is the Longevity brand. John said he has been using the same brand for years! As for the Trung Nguyen brand of ground Vietnamese coffee, it has a deep rich flavor with just a tiny hint of hazelnut flavor.
Ingredients and Tools
To make a classic cup of Vietnamese coffee, you’ll need:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee (Robusta or a Robusta-Arabica blend)
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1-2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
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Hot water (about 200ml)
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Ice (optional, for iced coffee)
Tools:
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A Vietnamese phin filter
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A glass or cup (preferably transparent to watch the coffee drip)
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A kettle
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the Phin Filter:
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Remove the top filter from the phin.
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Add 2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee to the base of the phin. Shake gently to level the grounds.
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Set Up the Filter:
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Place the phin filter on top of your cup or glass.
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Screw or press the top filter lightly onto the coffee grounds. This helps ensure even brewing.
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Add Hot Water:
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Pour about 20ml of hot water (just off the boil) into the phin. Let it sit for 30 seconds to allow the coffee to bloom, releasing its flavors and aromas.
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Slowly add the remaining hot water, filling the phin to the top.
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Let It Drip:
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Cover the phin with its lid and wait. The coffee will drip slowly into the cup, taking about 4-5 minutes to finish.
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The slower the drip, the stronger the brew. If it’s dripping too quickly, tighten the top filter slightly.
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Add Sweetened Condensed Milk:
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Once the brewing is complete, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk. Adjust to your taste preferences.
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Serve and Enjoy:
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For hot coffee, sip it as is and savor the rich, creamy flavors.
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For iced coffee (“Cà Phê Sữa Đá”), pour the brewed coffee over a glass filled with ice and stir well.
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Tips for the Perfect Cup
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Choose Quality Coffee: Opt for authentic Vietnamese coffee brands or blends specifically designed for phin brewing.
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Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the coffee-to-water ratio or the amount of condensed milk to suit your personal taste.
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Explore Variations: Try egg coffee (“Cà Phê Trứng”), coconut coffee, or add a splash of vanilla extract for a unique twist.
Experience the Magic of Vietnamese Coffee
Making Vietnamese coffee is more than just brewing a beverage; it’s about embracing a tradition that connects people, culture, and flavor. Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, this coffee style offers a moment of indulgence in every sip.
Ready to try it yourself? Explore our collection of premium Vietnamese coffee beans and brewing accessories at vietcaphe.com.au.