Oct 13, 2024
Shireen Jamooji
Asia’s Favourite Coffees
Vietnamese coffee and Indian filter coffee stand as two of the most famous regional Asian coffees in the world, but do you know there are many things that link the two?
Credit: iStock
Coffee Bean Types
Vietnamese coffee predominantly uses Robusta beans, known for their strong, bitter taste and high caffeine content. Indian coffee includes both Arabica and Robusta beans, with a focus on Arabica for its milder, aromatic flavour.
Credit: iStock
Processing Methods
Vietnamese beans are often processed using traditional drying methods, while Indian coffee is notable for its unique monsooned process, which exposes beans to moisture-laden winds, imparting a distinct, earthy flavour.
Credit: iStock
Brewing Methods
Vietnamese coffee is brewed using a phin filter, creating a slow-drip coffee, often enjoyed with condensed milk. Indian coffee is traditionally brewed using a South Indian filter, producing a strong decoction often mixed with milk and sugar.
Credit: iStock
Dairy Choices
Vietnamese coffee is often sweetened with condensed milk for a creamy texture and rich sweetness. In India, coffee is generally made with fresh milk, offering a less sweet, more subtle flavour.
Credit: iStock
Popularity
In Vietnam, ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) is a cultural staple, especially in hot climates. Indian coffee culture primarily focuses on hot coffee, although iced coffee is growing in popularity.
Credit: iStock
Flavour Profile
Vietnamese coffee is bold and strong, with notes of chocolate and nuts, largely due to the high use of Robusta. Indian coffee, especially monsooned varieties, has spicy, nutty undertones with a full-bodied, rich flavour.
Credit: iStock
You may also like
Savour Ratan Tata’s Favourite Dosa With…
Moringa Dishes For Autumn – Stems To Flo…
Caffeine Content
Vietnamese Robusta coffee has a higher caffeine content, providing a stronger kick. Indian Arabica coffee offers a milder option with lower caffeine levels, although Robusta varieties in India also provide higher caffeine.
Credit: iStock
Ingredients
2 Tbsp Vietnamese ground coffee, 2 Tbsp Sweetened condensed milk, 120 ml Boiling water, Ice cubes
Credit: iStock
Step 1
Add 2 Tbsp of sweetened condensed milk to a glass.
Credit: iStock
Step 2
Place 2 Tbsp of Vietnamese coffee grounds in the phin filter. Press down the filter and pour a little boiling water to bloom the coffee.
Credit: iStock
Step 3
Add the rest of the boiling water and let it drip. Once brewed, stir well and add ice.
Credit: iStock
Thanks For Reading!
