Ca Phe Sua Da
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- Coarsely ground Vietnamese or dark roast coffee — 2 tbsp
- Sweetened condensed milk — 3-4 tbsp
- Hot water
- Ice cubes
Method
- Spoon the sweetened condensed milk into the bottom of a glass.
- Place the coffee grounds in the phin filter and set it on top of the glass.
- Pour a small amount of hot water over the grounds to let them bloom for about 30 seconds.
- Fill the phin with more hot water and let it slowly drip through, taking about 4-5 minutes to filter completely.
- Once all the coffee has dripped through, remove the phin and stir the coffee well into the condensed milk at the bottom of the glass.
- Fill a separate serving glass with ice, then pour the sweetened coffee mixture over the ice.
- Stir well and serve immediately.
Introduction: Ca phe sua da, strong Vietnamese coffee sweetened with condensed milk and served over ice, is an iconic daily ritual across Vietnam.
Cultural Background: Ca phe sua da, strong Vietnamese coffee sweetened with condensed milk and served over ice, is an iconic daily ritual across Vietnam. Brewed traditionally through a small metal drip filter (phin), it's beloved for its bold, rich flavour balanced by creamy sweetness.
Tips: Use a coarse grind suited to the phin filter — too fine a grind can clog it and slow the drip excessively. Adjust the condensed milk to taste, as sweetness preferences vary widely. Stir the coffee and condensed milk together thoroughly before adding ice, as they don't mix as easily once cold.
Variations: Use black coffee without milk for a stronger, less sweet version (ca phe den). Add a scoop of coconut ice cream for an indulgent variation (ca phe cot dua). Adjust coffee strength by using more or less coffee grounds. Vegetarian as written; not vegan due to condensed milk, though a plant-based condensed milk alternative can be substituted.
Storage: Best enjoyed fresh; not suitable for storing once assembled.
Reheating: Not applicable — this is an iced beverage and is not reheated.
FAQs:
Q: What is a phin filter?
A: A phin is a small metal drip filter traditionally used to brew Vietnamese coffee slowly, one cup at a time, directly over the serving glass.
Q: Can I make this without a phin filter?
A: Yes, a French press or strong pour-over coffee can be used as a substitute, though the phin gives the most traditional flavour and experience.
Q: Can I make this less sweet?
A: Yes, simply reduce the amount of condensed milk to taste.
- Coarsely ground Vietnamese or dark roast coffee — 2 tbsp
- Sweetened condensed milk — 3-4 tbsp
- Hot water
- Ice cubes
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