How to Make Vietnamese Coconut Coffee?
Vietnamese coconut coffee, or “Cà Phê Dừa,” is a surprising yet delightful fusion of tradition and modernity. It seamlessly blends the robust and earthy flavor of coffee with the sweet and refreshing taste of fresh coconut.
This unique flavor profile has earned it a well-deserved spot among the six recommended coffee experiences by the world-renowned culinary guide, the Michelin Guide.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the history of Vietnamese coconut coffee, exploring its health benefits and introducing you to the best places to savor this delicious beverage in Vietnam.
We’ll also share an easy recipe for making Vietnamese coconut coffee at home, so you can enjoy this delightful treat without any hassle.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
What is Vietnamese Coconut Coffee?
Vietnamese coconut coffee is called “Cà phê dừa” in Vietnamese, where “Cà phê” means coffee and “dừa” means coconut. It’s a distinctive and delicious beverage that blends the robust flavor of coffee with the sweetness and creaminess of coconut cream.
The tropical twist it adds to the coffee creates a refreshing taste, particularly during hot weather, making it a popular choice in Vietnam and other parts of the world.
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Why Adding Coconuts to Coffee is a Great Idea?
Coconuts have a naturally sweet flavor that can enhance the flavor of the coffee by adding a subtle sweetness and nutty undertone. They are also versatile ingredients that can be used in many ways, such as adding to coffee grounds before brewing, or as a creamer or topping.
On top of that, adding coconut to coffee not only makes it look visually appealing but also brings several health benefits, including:
- Coconuts are a rich source of healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These fats are easily digested and absorbed by the body, providing a quick energy source. They can also help to boost metabolism and promote weight loss.
- Coconuts contain a number of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and iron. These nutrients are essential for overall health and can help to improve energy levels, reduce stress, and boost the immune system.
- Coffee is a natural source of caffeine, which can boost energy and help you stay alert and focused.
Like Vietnamese salted coffee, adding coconuts to coffee is a great way to improve the taste, nutritional value, and health benefits of your perfect cup of joe.
The History of Vietnamese Coconut Coffee
Coconut coffee originated as a specialty in Hai Phong, a port city in northern Vietnam. Mixing black coffee with coconut milk is the traditional way to enjoy it.
In 2018, a well-known coffee chain called “Cộng Cà Phê” introduced its first coconut coffee to the market, and its unique flavor has shaken the coffee world ever since.
Their recipe uses not only coconut milk, but also coconut flesh blended harmoniously with coconut juice and milk, creating a refreshing, rich, slushy, and creamy flavor.
The Vietnamese coconut coffee from this cafe went viral and quickly became a nice pick-me-up among coffee devotees throughout Vietnam, making it the bestselling product to date.
Its success has paved the way for the creation of other variations such as coconut cacao and coconut mung bean.
Coconut cacao and coconut mung bean
Unbeatable Vietnamese Coconut Coffee Recipe
Every coffee shop has its own Vietnamese coconut coffee recipe. In this article, we’ll share an easy recipe that even first-timers can succeed with on their first try.
Needed equipments include:
- A phin (Vietnamese coffee filter).
- A blender
- Cups
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of Vietnamese coffee powder
- 3 tablespoons of coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons of condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons of coconut flesh (not compulsory)
- Ice cubes
- 80 ml of hot water (95 Celcius degress)
Directions:
- Add coffee powder into a phin. Press the powder firmly but not too hard.
- Place the phin on a cup. Pour 30ml hot water into the phin and let the coffee powder expand for 2 minutes.
- Pour the rest of the hot water into the phin and let the coffee drip into the cup. When it’s done, chill the coffee in the fridge for 15 minutes.
- Add coconut milk, condensed milk, coconut flesh, and ice cubes into a blender. Blend until the mixture is thick and frothy.
- Get your cup of coffee and top it with the coconut slushy. Enjoy!
Notes:
- You can use a French press if you don’t have a phin.
- When using instant coffee, opt for the black coffee flavor. Simply add hot water and enjoy. No need to wait for it to expand.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to add more condensed milk. If you want a thicker texture, add more coconut flesh. For an extra thick consistency, you can also place the coconut slushy in the freezer for 30 minutes.
Vietnamese Coconut Coffee Near Me
Craving a delectable concoction of Vietnamese coconut coffee? Look no further! We’ve scoured the local area to give you the best cafes serving this exotic brew.
As a starting point, we suggest you try the “Cà Phê Dừa” version from Cộng cà phê – after all, you can’t go wrong with the place where the coconut coffee journey began. You can easily find this coffee shop in Vietnam’s major cities.
Besides these, thousands of street kiosks, coffee shops, and restaurants offer this type of coffee. The recipe and prices may vary slightly.
- In Hanoi: The Note Coffee, Hanoi Coffee Station, Hidden Gem Coffee, Loading T café, Hanoi Coffee Culture.
- In Saigon: OKKIO Caffe – Lê Lợi, PỜ CAFÉ, Cokernut Cafe, Tonkin Specialty Coffee
- In Hoian: Coconut Coffee, Phin Coffee, Buttercup by Rosie’s Cafe
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vietnamese coconut coffee vegan?
Vietnamese coconut coffee is made with coffee, coconut milk, and condensed milk. While coffee and coconut milk are both vegan, condensed milk is not, as it contains dairy. Therefore, Vietnamese coconut coffee is not vegan.
Can you use coconut cream in coffee?
Absolutely! Using coconut cream will make the slushy thicker and elevate the rich, creamy texture of the coconut coffee to the next level.
When shouldn’t you drink Vietnamese coconut coffee?
Avoid drinking Vietnamese coconut coffee if you are sensitive to caffeine or allergic to coconuts. Additionally, it is not recommended to drink the coffee on an empty stomach.
