Vietnamese Iced Coffee , or cà phê sữa đá, is a delightful concoction that perfectly balances the deep flavors of robust coffee with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, served over ice. This invigorating beverage captures the essence of Vietnam’s vibrant coffee culture and is loved for its bold taste and refreshing qualities. Whether enjoyed in the morning to kickstart your day or as an afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to captivate coffee lovers and those new to the world of Vietnamese coffee alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this Vietnamese iced coffee recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is a harmonious blend of strong, rich coffee with the velvety sweetness of condensed milk, creating a luxurious drink that is both energizing and satisfying. The ease of preparation makes it accessible for anyone, whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or a casual drinker. Plus, it caters perfectly to those who enjoy a dairy-rich lifestyle, but can also be adapted for vegan diets. This recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy your daily caffeine fix while also treating yourself to a deliciously sweet indulgence.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Vietnamese iced coffee experience even better, here are some helpful tips and tricks.
- Coffee Choice: Use a dark roast coffee for an authentic taste. Vietnamese coffee is often made with Robusta beans, known for their strong flavor and higher caffeine content; however, a medium roast will work too.
- Coffee Brewing: If you don’t have a traditional Vietnamese phin filter, a French press or even a drip coffee maker can serve in a pinch. Just ensure the coffee is brewed strong.
- Condensed Milk: Adjust the amount of condensed milk based on your sweetness preference. If you love a rich, creamy drink, don’t hesitate to add an extra spoonful.
- Ice Quality: Use larger ice cubes to prevent rapid dilution, ensuring your coffee maintains its bold flavor longer.
Make Ahead Tips
For busy schedules, you can prepare elements of your Vietnamese iced coffee in advance:
- Coffee Preparation: Brew a batch of strong coffee in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to always serve it over ice.
- Condensed Milk: Keep a jar of sweetened condensed milk handy for quick assembly.
- Ice Cubes: Make coffee ice cubes ahead of time by freezing brewed coffee in an ice cube tray. This prevents dilution and enhances the coffee flavor.
Recipe Variations
This Vietnamese iced coffee recipe is versatile! Consider these variations:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a light, tropical twist.
- Flavored Coffee: Experiment with flavored coffee or add a splash of vanilla extract for an aromatic twist.
- Iced Coffee Float: Top your iced coffee with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert-style treat.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the coffee grounds before brewing for an aromatic touch.
How to Serve
Serve your Vietnamese iced coffee in a tall glass filled with ice. For an authentic experience, use a glass with a wide rim to showcase the layers of coffee and condensed milk. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a light dusting of cocoa powder for visual appeal. Enjoy it with a small side of traditional Vietnamese pastries like bánh mì or coconut macaroons for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Vietnamese iced coffee with complementary treats to enhance the experience:
- Desserts: Try it with sweet treats like a slice of chocolate cake or a bowl of fresh tropical fruit.
- Savory Snacks: Enjoy with crispy spring rolls or banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes) for a savory contrast.
- Cocktails: For an adult twist, consider pairing it with a dark rum cocktail or a minty mojito.
How to Store
To store any leftovers, keep your brewed coffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, once mixed with condensed milk and served over ice, it’s best consumed immediately for optimal flavor and freshness. If you have remaining coffee ice cubes, they can be stored in a freezer bag for up to three months.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need:
- A Vietnamese coffee filter (phin) or a French press
- A glass or cup for serving
- An ice cube tray (if making coffee ice cubes)
- A spoon for stirring
If you don’t have a phin, a regular coffee maker can also be used, just brew it stronger to get the same robust flavor.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, consider the following adaptations:
- Vegan: Use coconut condensed milk or other plant-based alternatives.
- Nut-Free: Stick with soy or oat milk if nuts are a concern.
- Dairy-Free: Ensure your sweetened condensed milk is dairy-free or use a homemade version made from coconut milk.
Seasonal Adaptations
Depending on the season, you can modify your iced coffee:
- Summer: Use fresh mint leaves as a garnish for a refreshing twist.
- Fall: Add spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal flavor profile.
- Winter: Consider making a hot version of this coffee to enjoy during cooler months before chilling it for an iced experience.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use instant coffee?: Yes, but for the best flavor, fresh-brewed coffee is recommended.
- What if I don’t have condensed milk?: You can make your own by simmering milk and sugar together until thickened.
- How long does it take to brew the coffee?: It usually takes about 4-5 minutes with a phin filter, depending on your grind size and how strong you want it.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Vietnamese Iced Coffee , or cà phê sữa đá, is a delightful concoction that perfectly balances the deep flavors of robust coffee with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, served over ice.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of coarsely ground dark roast coffee
- 2-3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Hot water (approximately 90°C or 195°F)
Instructions
- Start by boiling water and letting it cool slightly to about 90°C (195°F).
- Place the ground coffee in the phin filter and gently press it down. Pour a small amount of hot water over the grounds to bloom for about 30 seconds.
- Slowly pour hot water into the filter, filling it to the top. Allow the coffee to drip into your glass for 4-5 minutes.
- Once brewed, add the sweetened condensed milk to the glass with the coffee and stir well to combine.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes, and mix again until well chilled.
Serve immediately, garnished as desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 184Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 19mgSodium: 84mgCarbohydrates: 31gFiber: 0gSugar: 31gProtein: 5g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Vietnamese iced coffee at home is not just about preparing a drink; it’s about embracing a cultural experience that brings the vibrant spirit of Vietnam right to your kitchen. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for any coffee lover looking to indulge in something uniquely delicious. Enjoy it on its own or alongside your favorite treats, and savor every sip of this refreshing delight!
