Vietnamese Egg Coffee: A Creamy Delight

When you think of coffee, you might picture your classic cup of black brew or a creamy latte, but there's a delightful and unexpected coffee concoction that has been capturing the hearts of coffee lovers worldwide: Vietnamese Egg Coffee. This unique drink combines the richness of coffee with a velvety, sweet, and creamy egg topping, creating a taste experience like no other. In this post, we'll delve into what Vietnamese Egg Coffee is and share a simple recipe for you to try at home.

The Story Behind Vietnamese Egg Coffee

Vietnamese Egg Coffee, known as "Ca Phe Trung," is believed to have been created in Hanoi in the 1940s when milk was in short supply. Nguyen Van Giang, a bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel, came up with the idea of using egg yolk as a creamy substitute. The result was a revelation, and this unique coffee preparation quickly gained popularity.

Today, Vietnamese Egg Coffee is enjoyed not only in Vietnam but also by coffee enthusiasts around the world. Its luxurious and velvety texture, coupled with the strong coffee flavour, creates a harmonious blend of bitter and sweet.

The Recipe: How to Make Vietnamese Egg Coffee

Ingredients:

For the Coffee:

• 2 to 3 tablespoons of coarsely ground Vietnamese coffee (we recommend Buffalo Robusta for its bold, chocolatey flavour that stands up to the egg cream)
• 3/4 cup of hot water
• 2 tablespoons of condensed milk (adjust to your sweetness preference)

For the Egg Cream:

• 2 egg yolks (use fresh, pasteurized eggs)
• 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons of hot water

Instructions:

1. Brew the Coffee: Start by brewing a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee. The traditional method uses a Vietnamese Phin Filter, which slow-drips a rich, concentrated coffee that forms the perfect base for the egg cream. Place the coffee grounds in the filter and pour hot water over them. Let the coffee drip into your cup.
2. Prepare the Egg Cream: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and hot water together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. This mixture will form the velvety topping for your coffee.
3. Assemble Your Vietnamese Egg Coffee: Pour the brewed coffee into a heatproof glass or cup, leaving some space at the top. Gently spoon the egg cream on top of the coffee. The creamy mixture should float on the coffee like a cloud.
4. Serve and Sip: Your Vietnamese Egg Coffee is ready to enjoy! Sip it slowly to savour the blend of flavours. You'll experience the boldness of the coffee and the sweetness of the egg cream with every delightful sip.

Tips and Variations:

• You can adjust the amount of condensed milk in the coffee and egg cream to match your desired level of sweetness.
• Some people like to sprinkle a little cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for an extra layer of flavour.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different coffee beans or roasts to find the perfect match for your taste buds.

Vietnamese Egg Coffee is a delightful fusion of rich coffee and creamy sweetness that provides a unique and unforgettable taste. Whether you're looking for a new coffee experience or want to impress your guests, this creamy delight is worth a try.

Want to explore more Vietnamese coffee at home? Check out our full range: Buffalo Robusta for bold and strong, Honeymoon Blend for balanced and smooth, or Sunshine Arabica for something light and mellow. And if you don't have a phin filter yet, our Phin'omenal Pair bundle gets you the filter and Buffalo together at a saving.