Drinks
Kafe Lao
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp finely ground dark-roast Lao coffee
- 250 ml (1 cup) hot water
- 2-3 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
- ice cubes (optional, for iced version)
Method
- Place the ground coffee into the cloth filter positioned over a pot or cup.
- Slowly pour hot water over the grounds, letting it drip through.
- Spoon sweetened condensed milk into a serving glass.
- Pour the hot brewed coffee over the condensed milk and stir well.
- For an iced version, pour the mixture over a glass filled with ice.
Introduction: Kafe Lao is Laos's strong, sweetened coffee, grown in the highlands of the Bolaven Plateau and traditionally brewed through a cloth filter, then served with generous sweetened condensed milk.
Cultural Background: Kafe Lao is Laos's strong, sweetened coffee, grown in the highlands of the Bolaven Plateau and traditionally brewed through a cloth filter, then served with generous sweetened condensed milk. It is a daily ritual across Lao cafes, reflecting the country's often overlooked but high-quality coffee-growing tradition.
Tips: A slow, steady pour produces a stronger, more balanced brew. Adjust the condensed milk quantity to taste for a sweeter or lighter drink.
Variations: Kafe Nom Yen is the iced version, popular in hot weather. Some drinkers add a layer of black tea beneath the coffee for a mixed drink called 'yen ka-fe nom'.
Storage: Best brewed and served fresh; leftover brewed coffee can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
Reheating: Gently warm on the stovetop if serving hot again; do not boil.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a regular coffee filter instead of cloth?
A: Yes, though the cloth filter is traditional and gives a smoother texture.
Q: Is Lao coffee very strong?
A: Yes, it is typically a dark, robust brew balanced by the sweetness of condensed milk.
Please log in to leave a comment.