Vietnamese salted coffee, or cà phê kem muối, is a unique and indulgent drink that perfectly balances sweet, salty, creamy, and bitter flavors. This trendy coffee combines rich Vietnamese coffee with a luscious salted cream foam topping, creating a harmonious taste experience that has gained popularity worldwide. Here’s everything you need to know about this delicious coffee and how to make it at home.
1. What is Vietnamese Salted Coffee?
Vietnamese salted coffee is a modern twist on traditional Vietnamese coffee. It features a base of strong, bold Vietnamese coffee, often brewed using a phin (a slow-drip Vietnamese coffee filter). The highlight of this drink is the salted cream foam, made by whipping cream and blending it with sugar, salt, and sometimes condensed milk to add sweetness.
The drink’s appeal lies in the contrast between the rich and slightly bitter coffee and the creamy, salty-sweet foam. The salted cream doesn’t overpower but rather enhances the coffee’s flavor, making each sip an indulgent treat.
2. Vietnamese Salted Coffee Recipe
Creating this delicious drink at home requires just a few ingredients and some simple steps.
Ingredients
For the coffee
- 2 tablespoons ground Vietnamese coffee (or any dark roast coffee)
- 1 cup hot water
- Sweetened condensed milk (optional, for added sweetness)
For the salted cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon condensed milk (optional, for richness)
Instructions
Brew the Coffee
Use a phin filter for authentic Vietnamese coffee. Add 2 tablespoons of ground coffee to the filter, press it down lightly with the filter press, and pour hot water over the coffee. Allow it to drip slowly into your cup.
If a phin is unavailable, brew a strong cup of coffee using a French press, espresso machine, or pour-over method.
Prepare the Salted Cream
In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, sugar, and sea salt. Whip the mixture using a hand whisk or electric mixer until it thickens slightly but remains pourable. Avoid over-whipping.
For additional sweetness and richness, stir in a tablespoon of condensed milk. This step is optional but adds a luxurious texture and flavor.
Assemble the Drink
Pour your brewed coffee into a glass or mug. If desired, add a small amount of condensed milk to sweeten the coffee.
Gently spoon the salted cream on top of the coffee, creating a thick layer of foam.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the coffee immediately. Sip it through the salted cream layer for the perfect balance of flavors in every mouthful.
3. Tips for Perfect Vietnamese Salted Coffee
Use Authentic Vietnamese Coffee: Vietnamese coffee, often made with robusta beans, has a strong and bold flavor that pairs beautifully with the salted cream. If you can, use brands like Trung Nguyên or Café Du Monde for an authentic taste.
Adjust the Salt: Sea salt works best for this recipe because it provides a clean, subtle saltiness. Start with ⅛ teaspoon and adjust to your preference. Too much salt can overpower the cream.
Don’t Overwhip the Cream: The salted cream should be thick but still pourable. Over-whipping will result in a stiff, non-pourable foam that won’t mix well with your coffee.
Experiment with Sweetness: Condensed milk is a traditional sweetener in Vietnamese coffee, but you can adjust the sweetness based on your taste. Add more or less condensed milk to the coffee or salted cream as needed.
Serve Fresh: Vietnamese salted cream coffee is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. The foam will lose its texture if left sitting for too long.
Try Iced Coffee: For a refreshing twist, pour the brewed coffee over ice before adding the salted cream. This variation is perfect for hot days and just as delicious.
Vietnamese salted coffee is a delightful beverage that’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress. The combination of rich coffee and salted cream creates a luxurious drink that’s perfect for any time of day. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of Vietnamese coffee culture right from the comfort of your home.
