How to Make Vietnamese Iced Coffee at Home
Vietnamese iced coffee, or cà phê sữa đá, is a delightful beverage known for its rich flavor and refreshing qualities. If you're looking to replicate this delicious drink at home, follow these simple steps.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 2 tablespoons of Vietnamese coffee (such as Trung Nguyên or any strong coffee)
- 1-2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
- Hot water (not boiling, about 200°F or 93°C)
- Ice cubes
Equipment Required
- A Vietnamese coffee filter (phin)
- A glass or cup
- A spoon
- A pitcher or bowl for assembling
Steps to Prepare Vietnamese Iced Coffee
1. Prepare Your Coffee Filter
Begin by placing the Vietnamese coffee filter on top of your glass. Add the desired amount of sweetened condensed milk to the bottom of the glass. This will sweeten and enrich the coffee as it drips through.
2. Add Coffee Grounds
Next, add 2 tablespoons of Vietnamese coffee to the filter. Gently shake it to level the coffee grounds.
3. Pour Hot Water
Slowly pour hot water over the coffee grounds, filling it to about halfway. This allows the coffee to steep and start releasing its robust flavors. Allow it to drip through for 3-5 minutes. You can adjust the amount of water for a stronger or weaker brew, depending on your taste.
4. Mix the Coffee
Once the coffee has dripped completely into the glass, use a spoon to stir the mixture thoroughly. This helps combine the dense coffee with the sweetened condensed milk.
5. Add Ice
Fill the glass with ice cubes. The iced coffee will chill quickly, and the addition of ice will enhance its refreshing taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Your homemade Vietnamese iced coffee is now ready to enjoy! You can also try variations by adding milk or non-dairy alternatives for different flavors.
Tips for the Best Vietnamese Iced Coffee
- Use Fresh Coffee: For the best flavor, always use freshly roasted and ground Vietnamese coffee.
- Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of condensed milk to suit your sweetness preference.
- Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding flavors such as vanilla or chocolate for a unique twist.
Making Vietnamese iced coffee at home is not only easy but also a great way to enjoy a taste of Vietnam anytime. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can recreate this iconic drink in the comfort of your own kitchen.