How to Make Vietnamese Cold Brew Coffee at Home

Vietnamese cold brew coffee, also known as cà phê sữa đá, is a refreshing and delicious drink that combines robust coffee flavors with sweetened condensed milk. Making it at home is simpler than you might think, and with the right steps, you can enjoy this delightful beverage any time of day. Let’s dive into how to make Vietnamese cold brew coffee at home.

Ingredients You Will Need

  • Vietnamese coffee grounds (or any strong coffee)
  • Hot water (about 200°F or 93°C)
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Ice cubes

Equipment

  • Phin filter (or any coffee brewing method like a French press)
  • Glass or cup
  • Spoon for mixing

Steps to Make Vietnamese Cold Brew Coffee

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by measuring out your Vietnamese coffee grounds. A general rule of thumb is to use a ratio of 1:15, meaning one part coffee to 15 parts water. For a stronger brew, adjust the ratio to your preference. For example, use 40 grams of coffee for 600 ml of water.

Step 2: Brew the Coffee

Using a phin filter is traditional, but if you don’t have one, a French press will do just fine. If using a phin, place it over your glass and add the coffee grounds. Gently press down with the filter lid and then pour a small amount of hot water over the grounds to let them bloom for about 30 seconds.

After blooming, slowly pour the remaining hot water over the grounds. Allow the coffee to drip into the glass below. If using a French press, simply add the coffee and hot water, stir, and let it steep for about 4–5 minutes before pressing the plunger down.

Step 3: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Once your coffee is brewed, it’s time to sweeten it. Pour in about 2–3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk into the glass. The amount can be adjusted based on your sweetness preference. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add Ice

Fill the glass with ice cubes. The ice will cool down the hot coffee, transforming it into a refreshing cold brew. Make sure to wait a moment for the mixture to chill properly before adding more ice if desired.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Vietnamese Cold Brew Coffee

Give your cold brew coffee one last stir before drinking. You can enjoy it as it is or serve it with a side of traditional Vietnamese snacks for an authentic experience. Sit back, relax, and savor every sip of your homemade Vietnamese cold brew coffee.

Tips for Perfecting Your Vietnamese Cold Brew Coffee

  • Experiment with different coffee beans to find the flavor profile you enjoy best.
  • For a smoother taste, let your coffee sit for a few minutes before adding the condensed milk.
  • Adjust the amount of condensed milk for more or less sweetness as per your taste.

Making Vietnamese cold brew coffee at home allows you to enjoy this delightful drink any time you wish. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious beverage that's perfect for hot days or a refreshing pick-me-up. So grab your coffee supplies and start brewing!