Ah, a refreshing iced coffee with creamy condensed milk – what a delight! This Vietnamese classic blends bold coffee and sweet, velvety goodness, creating a heavenly sip that's perfect on a warm day. First, you brew the coffee using a special Vietnamese filter for a rich, intense flavor. Then, you stir in the luscious condensed milk, which adds a dreamy creaminess and pleasant sweetness. Finally, you top it off with plenty of ice cubes for a cool, satisfying crunch. It's a harmonious fusion of flavors that's sure to brighten your day. And there's so much more to explore about this beloved beverage!
Key Takeaways
- Iced coffee with condensed milk is a popular Vietnamese beverage that combines brewed coffee, ice, and sweetened condensed milk for a rich, creamy, and refreshing taste.
- The drink's origins can be traced back to the late 19th century during the French colonial era in Vietnam, reflecting the fusion of coffee traditions and local flavors.
- The preparation involves brewing coffee using a traditional phin filter, adding sweetened condensed milk to taste, and then chilling the mixture with ice for a satisfying and balanced flavor profile.
- Iced coffee with condensed milk is a versatile beverage that can be customized with additional flavors, such as vanilla or chocolate, to cater to diverse taste preferences.
- While the drink offers a boost of caffeine, the high sugar content from the condensed milk should be considered, especially for those monitoring their sugar intake.
History
The origin of iced coffee with condensed milk can be traced back to Vietnam, where it has been a beloved beverage for decades. Known as "ca phe sua da," this delightful drink was first popularized in the late 19th century, during the French colonial era.
Back then, Vietnamese coffee growers needed a way to preserve their harvest, so they started mixing the freshly brewed coffee with sweetened condensed milk. This not only extended the shelf life of the coffee, but also created a rich, creamy, and refreshing taste that quickly became a local favorite.
Over the years, the recipe has remained largely unchanged, with the exception of serving it over ice to beat the tropical heat.
Today, ca phe sua da is a quintessential part of Vietnamese culture, enjoyed by people of all ages throughout the country. Whether sipped leisurely or gulped down quickly, this iced coffee delight remains a timeless treat that brings joy to all who try it.
Recipe
Iced coffee with condensed milk is a delightful Vietnamese-inspired treat that combines the rich creaminess of sweetened condensed milk with the refreshing bitterness of strong brewed coffee.
This simple yet indulgent beverage is the perfect pick-me-up on a hot day. The key to this recipe is to use a high-quality dark-roast coffee that can stand up to the bold flavors of the condensed milk.
The brewing method is also important, as the coffee needs to be strong enough to balance the sweetness of the milk.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- Ice cubes
Directions:
Brew a strong batch of dark-roast coffee and allow it to cool completely. In a tall glass, combine the cooled coffee and sweetened condensed milk.
Stir well to combine. Add ice cubes and stir again to chill the drink. Serve immediately.
For best results, use freshly brewed coffee that has been allowed to cool to room temperature. The coffee should be strong and bold in flavor to provide a counterpoint to the rich, sweet condensed milk.
Adjust the ratio of coffee to condensed milk to suit your personal taste preferences.
Cooking Steps
Brew up a bold and flavorful cup of coffee using a traditional Vietnamese phin filter.
Then, stir in a generous helping of sweet and creamy condensed milk.
Finally, add some ice and give it all a good mix.
You're now ready to sip on this refreshing iced coffee treat!
Step 1. Brew Coffee Using a Phin Filter
Brewing coffee with a phin filter is a straightforward process that yields a rich, aromatic result.
First, you'll place the metal filter into the phin's base, then add a couple of tablespoons of ground coffee. Gently tap the filter to level the grounds.
Next, slowly pour hot water over the coffee, making sure to wet all the grounds. Let it steep for about 2-3 minutes, then watch as the flavorful brew drips down into your waiting cup.
The phin filter creates a thick, concentrated coffee that's simply delightful. You can adjust the amount of coffee and steeping time to suit your personal taste preferences.
Whether you enjoy your iced coffee with a splash of condensed milk or black, the phin method delivers a wonderfully robust and smooth flavor in every sip.
Get ready to savor the authentic taste of Vietnamese-style iced coffee at home!
Step 2. Add Condensed Milk
Once you've brewed your coffee using the phin filter, it's time to add the signature ingredient that transforms it into authentic Vietnamese-style iced coffee – condensed milk.
This thick, sweet, and creamy milk is the secret to the rich and indulgent flavor of Ca Phe Sua Da. Grab your can of sweetened condensed milk and get ready to pour it in.
Slowly drizzle the condensed milk into your freshly brewed coffee, stirring gently to combine. Watch as the milk swirls and blends, creating a smooth and velvety texture. The sweet aroma will fill the air, making your mouth water in anticipation.
Once the condensed milk is fully incorporated, give your coffee a final stir to ensure everything is well-mixed.
Now, all that's left is to add ice and enjoy the perfect balance of bold coffee and decadent sweetness. Sip and savor this heavenly Vietnamese iced coffee creation!
Step 3. Add Ice
After stirring in the condensed milk, it's time to add the ice.
You'll want to use plenty of ice cubes to get that nice, chilled iced coffee. Scoop a generous amount of ice into your glass, filling it up almost to the top. The cold, crunchy ice cubes will instantly cool down your freshly-brewed coffee, creating that perfect icy-cold beverage.
As the ice melts, it will dilute the coffee just a bit, balancing out the sweetness of the condensed milk. You'll end up with a smooth, refreshing iced coffee that's not too strong or too sweet.
The ice also adds a satisfying crunch with each sip, making the experience even more delightful.
Be sure to stir the iced coffee one more time before taking your first sip. This will ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
Now you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your perfectly chilled Ca Phe Sua Da!
Step 4. Stir to Combine Ingredients
With the condensed milk added, give the iced coffee a good stir to fully incorporate all the ingredients.
You'll notice the liquid transform from a light, watery brown to a luscious, creamy tan color as the sweet, concentrated milk blends in.
The satisfying swish of the spoon against the glass creates a soothing, rhythmic sound, almost like a gentle rain shower.
As you stir, the aroma of the freshly brewed coffee grows stronger, mingling with the rich, decadent scent of the condensed milk. The warm, velvety liquid fills your senses as you prepare to take your first sip. The combination of the creamy milk and bold coffee creates a perfect balance of flavors, transporting you to a cozy cafe in Hanoi. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for, the indulgence of the Vietnamese egg coffee recipe that you’ve been eager to try.
Keep stirring until the mixture is thoroughly combined – no streaks or pockets of milk should remain.
Now, the iced coffee is ready to be enjoyed!
The smooth, velvety texture and perfect balance of coffee and sweetness will make each sip pure bliss.
Sit back, take a refreshing sip, and savor the delightful flavors of this classic Vietnamese iced coffee treat.
Step 5. Enjoy the Refreshing Beverage
Now that the ingredients are thoroughly combined, it's time to enjoy this refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee! Grab your glass and take a sip – the sweet, creamy condensed milk perfectly balances the bold, slightly bitter coffee. Mmm, can you taste the caramelized notes?
The ice cubes clink against the sides of the glass, creating a satisfying sound as the chilled liquid cools you down on a hot day. As you savor each sip, notice how the coffee's aroma wafts up, filling your nose with its enticing scent.
The smooth texture glides across your tongue, leaving behind a delightful aftertaste that'll have you reaching for another sip. This iced coffee is truly a taste of Vietnamese culture – a beloved tradition that's both refreshing and comforting.
Take your time and enjoy every moment of this delightful beverage. It's the perfect pick-me-up or afternoon treat. Sip, savor, and relax – you deserve this moment of pure refreshment!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the iced coffee with condensed milk stands as a delightful pick-me-up, a cool respite from the day's heat. Its rich, creamy texture and sweetness melt together in perfect harmony, creating a refreshing sensation that dances across your taste buds.
With each sip, you're transported to a quaint Vietnamese cafe, the bustling sounds of the city fading away as you savor the moment.
The contrasting temperatures of the iced coffee and the silky-smooth condensed milk make for a truly unique and satisfying experience. It's a beverage that can be enjoyed any time of day, whether you're seeking a morning boost or an afternoon pick-me-up.
The versatility of this drink is truly remarkable, appealing to a wide range of palates and preferences.
As you savor the final drops, you can't help but feel a sense of contentment and delight. The iced coffee with condensed milk is more than just a drink – it's a cultural experience that you'll want to revisit time and time again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Store Leftover Condensed Milk?
To store leftover condensed milk, keep it in the can or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods to prevent spoilage.
Can I Use Other Types of Milk Besides Condensed Milk?
Yes, you can use other types of milk besides condensed milk. Try using regular milk, almond milk, or even coconut milk to create your own unique coffee beverage. Experiment with different flavors and see what you prefer.
What Is the Best Ratio of Coffee to Condensed Milk?
The best ratio of coffee to condensed milk depends on your personal taste preferences. Start with a 1:1 ratio and adjust to your desired level of sweetness and creaminess from there. Experiment until you find the perfect balance.
How Long Can the Iced Coffee Stay Fresh?
The iced coffee can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, the flavor and quality may begin to degrade after 2 days, so it's best to consume it within that timeframe.
Can I Use Brewed Coffee Instead of Instant Coffee?
You can certainly use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee. The brewed coffee will have a richer, more robust flavor compared to instant. Just be sure to let the coffee cool before adding the condensed milk and ice.
Mai is a passionate chef specializing in Vietnamese cuisine. From fragrant pho to fresh spring rolls and banh mi, Mai’s dishes showcase the balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy that defines Vietnamese cooking. Her recipes emphasize fresh herbs, flavorful broths, and the light, vibrant ingredients that make Vietnamese food so special.
