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Vietnamese Iced Coffee: Refreshing cà phê sữa đá in a glass.
Lady Maria

Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)

Experience the rich and bold flavors of Vietnam with this authentic iced coffee recipe. Using a traditional Phin filter, dark roast coffee, and sweet condensed milk, this refreshing beverage is surprisingly easy to make at home and perfect for a hot day.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons coarsely ground dark roast Vietnamese coffee Robusta preferred
  • 2-3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk adjust to taste
  • 4-5 ounces hot water just off the boil
  • Ice cubes

Equipment

  • Phin filter
  • Sturdy glass or mug
  • spoon
  • Small bowl or container for pre-infusion (optional)
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cup
  • Kettle or pot for boiling water
  • Ice cube tray
  • Stirring spoon or straw

Method
 

  1. Place the phin filter on top of a sturdy glass or mug, ensuring it sits securely.
  2. Spoon the ground coffee into the phin filter. Gently shake to distribute the coffee evenly.
  3. Use the included press (the little disc) to gently tamp the coffee grounds, creating a level surface. Do not pack too tightly.
  4. Pour about 1 tablespoon of hot water over the coffee grounds to pre-infuse. Wait about 30 seconds, allowing the coffee to bloom.
  5. Slowly pour about 4-5 ounces of hot water into the phin filter. Cover with the lid.
  6. Allow the coffee to drip slowly through the filter. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
  7. While the coffee is brewing, add the sweetened condensed milk to your serving glass.
  8. Once the coffee has finished brewing, pour it directly over the condensed milk.
  9. Stir well to combine the coffee and condensed milk.
  10. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
  11. Stir again and enjoy your homemade Vietnamese iced coffee.

Notes

For the best flavor, use freshly ground, dark roast Vietnamese coffee beans, preferably Robusta. Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your preferred level of sweetness. Using water just off the boil (around 200°F or 93°C) is crucial for optimal extraction. Experiment with different coffee beans and roasts to find your perfect flavor profile. For a coconut twist, add a splash of coconut milk to your condensed milk.