I have always been a fan of Vietnamese cuisine, with its vibrant flavors and unique combinations. One of my favorite Vietnamese recipes is the traditional Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk. This delightful drink offers the perfect balance of strong coffee and creamy sweetness, making it a perfect treat to start the day or enjoy as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. In this article, I will share with you a simple and delicious recipe to make Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk at home. So grab your coffee beans, condensed milk, and let’s get started!
Gather the Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. To make Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk, you will need:
1. Vietnamese coffee beans: The key to a flavorful cup of Vietnamese coffee is using the right type of coffee beans. Look for a bag of robust and dark roast Vietnamese coffee beans, which can be easily found at your local Asian grocery store or online.
2. Condensed milk: This is an essential ingredient that gives Vietnamese coffee its distinctive creamy and sweet flavor. You can find condensed milk in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
3. Coffee filter: Vietnamese coffee is traditionally brewed using a small metal filter called a “phin”. This filter allows the coffee to brew slowly, resulting in a rich and bold flavor. If you don’t have a phin filter, you can use a French press or a drip coffee maker as an alternative.
4. Hot water: You will need hot water to brew the coffee. Make sure the water is not boiling, as it can scorch the coffee grounds and result in a burnt taste.
Brewing the Coffee
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to brewing the coffee.
Step 1: Preheat the Cup
To enhance the flavors and keep your coffee warm for longer, start by preheating your cup. Simply pour some hot water into your cup and let it sit for a minute or two. Then, discard the water.
Step 2: Prepare the Phin Filter
If you are using a traditional phin filter, assemble it by placing the filter insert on top of the cup. Remove the filter press and add about 2-3 tablespoons of coffee grounds into the filter.
Step 3: Brew the Coffee
Pour a small amount of hot water into the phin filter, just enough to wet the coffee grounds. Allow the coffee to bloom for about 20 seconds. Then, slowly pour the remaining hot water into the filter, filling it to the brim. Place the filter press on top of the coffee grounds and let the coffee drip. This process takes about 4-5 minutes, so be patient and enjoy the aroma that fills the air.
Serving the Vietnamese Coffee
Once the coffee has finished brewing, it’s time to complete your Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk.
Step 1: Sweeten the Coffee
In a separate cup, add about 2-3 tablespoons of condensed milk. You can adjust the amount according to your preferred level of sweetness. Carefully pour the brewed coffee into the cup with the condensed milk, stirring gently to combine. The rich and creamy condensed milk will blend beautifully with the bold coffee, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Step 2: Enjoy!
Your Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk is now ready to be enjoyed. Take a moment to appreciate the mesmerizing layers of black coffee and golden condensed milk as they swirl together in your cup. The first sip will transport you to the bustling streets of Hanoi, filled with the aroma of freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee.
Remember to take your time and savor each sip of this delightful drink. Vietnamese coffee is meant to be enjoyed slowly, allowing you to fully experience the rich flavors and the unique combination of coffee and condensed milk.
Variations and Tips
While the classic Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk is already a delicious treat, there are a few variations and tips you can try to add your personal touch:
1. Ice Vietnamese Coffee: To enjoy a refreshing iced coffee, simply pour the brewed coffee over a glass filled with ice cubes. Add the condensed milk, give it a good stir, and enjoy a chilled version of this delightful drink.
2. Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free alternative, you can replace condensed milk with coconut milk. The creamy and slightly sweet coconut flavor pairs beautifully with the bold Vietnamese coffee.
3. Adjusting the Strength: If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, use less water during brewing, or add more coffee grounds. Experiment with the ratio of coffee to water until you find your perfect balance of strength and flavor.
4. Serve with Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve your Vietnamese coffee with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm coffee and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
In Conclusion
Making Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk at home is a simple and rewarding process. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy a cup of this delightful beverage whenever you crave a taste of Vietnam. So why not try this recipe and treat yourself to a delicious and aromatic experience? Cheers to a perfect cup of Vietnamese coffee!