Explore why Vietnamese drip coffee is so popular

Vietnamese drip coffee, a cultural gem, has taken the world by storm with its unique brewing method and rich flavors. Drip coffee is ubiquitous in cities, ranging from kindergartens to hip cafes and even pavement cafes strung along sidewalks.

In this article, we will explore the intricacies of why Vietnamese drip coffee is gaining so much love among coffee connoisseurs.

Taking a brief look at Vietnamese coffee

Coffee was originally mostly farmed in Vietnam’s central Highlands. Vietnamese coffee has its roots in the French colonial period, which lasted from the mid-19th century. Vietnam’s ideal climate and soil conditions make it a suitable environment for coffee plantations.

Robusta is the variety most frequently linked to Vietnamese coffee. Because of their robust flavor, robusta beans is a good fit for traditional Vietnamese coffee preparation methods.

the history of vietnamese coffee
The history of Vietnamese coffee

The story of Vietnamese drip coffee culture

In Vietnam, coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up. It plays a big role in social situations, family gatherings, and even business meetings. Acknowledging this cultural connection enhances the admiration for Vietnamese drip coffee.

It’s not only about enjoying a cup of drip coffee when you connect with someone. Vietnam’s communal coffee drinking culture has contributed to the beverage’s international appeal.

Moreover, Vietnam has become one of the world’s leading coffee producers, and coffee cultivation has played a significant role in the country’s economic development. Vietnam’s international reputation as a coffee exporter has been increased by the coffee business, which has also created job possibilities.

vietnamese coffee drinking culture
Vietnamese coffee drinking culture

Vietnamese drip coffee's notable factors

The key element of Vietnamese drip coffee depends on several factors.

The brewing method

At the heart of Vietnamese drip coffee is the traditional phin filter. This small, metal drip filter allows for a slow and controlled brewing process, resulting in a cup of coffee that is distinctively bold and flavorful.

Furthermore, this prolonged contact between water and coffee grounds extracts deep flavors, making for a truly satisfying coffee experience. In particular, instead of using coffee-making methods with high-tech machines, Vietnam still retains the tradition of brewing drip coffee, creating a characteristically strong taste and sweet aroma.

vietnamese drip coffee maker by phin filter
Vietnamese drip coffee maker by phin filter

Condensed milk counterbalances the robust flavor of coffee

In Vietnam, the prevalence of robusta beans, comprising nearly 90% of the country’s coffee production, has had an impact on the coffee culture. Because of their strong flavor profile and resistance to the slow drip brewing method made possible by the traditional phin filter, robusta beans are especially well-suited for drip coffee.

Robusta beans' robust and intense qualities produce a strong and tasty brew that adds to Vietnamese coffee’s distinct flavor. Locals frequently make the famous “cà phê sữa đá,” or iced milk coffee, by blending brew coffee with sweetened condensed milk to balance its strength. Besides, this tasteful combination not only balances the coffee’s intensity but also adds smooth sweetness, making for a pleasant drink that has come to represent Vietnam’s rich coffee culture.

Bold coffee taste

As mentioned above, Vietnamese drip coffee’s strong, bold taste has won it praise from all around the world. Robusta coffee beans, which flourish in Vietnam’s perfect climate and soil, are the main source of its unique flavor profile. The coffee is distinguished from other coffee varieties by the robusta beans, which give it a robust and full-bodied character.

Combined with many different ingredients

Not only that, Vietnam coffee is being used to make an increasing number of inventive, tasty, and visually intriguing coffee cups. There are some popular combinations, including:

  • Cà phê trứng (Egg coffee) - This specialty is created with sugar, condensed milk, robusta coffee, and egg yolks. The whipped egg mixture is then poured on top of the brewed coffee, creating a layer of rich foam that floats on the surface. The sweet, creamy egg combination contrasted with the bitter coffee produces a pleasing harmony of flavors.
  • Cà phê dừa (Coconut coffee) - Coconut milk can be used in place of condensed milk for those who prefer a dairy-free option. This gives the coffee a tropical and velvety taste.
  • Cà phê muối (Salt coffee) - It is combination of the rich robusta coffee beans, the sweetness of condensed milk, and the salty salty coating of salt cream on the coffee cup's surface work together to lessen bitterness and provide a flavor that is rich and fragrant.
more entertaining when served with different ingredients
More entertaining when served with different ingredients

Vietnamese drip coffee recipe

The recipe can be prepared at home by following these steps:

  • Step 1: Before brewing coffee, Vietnamese usually rinse and soak the filter in hot water first for a few minutes. Then, add 20g of coffee = 4 tablespoons, to the phin chamber. Place the tamper in the coffee chamber as you shake to level the ground and gently press. 
  • Step 2: Put the phin in the cup. Fill the phin filter with 20 ml/g = 1 tablespoon of hot water, and let the 
  • coffee bloom for 1 minute. 
  • Step 3: Fill the filter with 80 ml/g (about ⅓ cup) of hot water, then cover it with a lid. Await the completed coffee for around 7 to 8 minutes. 

Note: It is generally advised to drip at a rate of one drop per second.

vietnamese drip coffee recipe
Easy recipe Vietnamese drip coffee - Giving a great cup of coffee
You now have a rich, aromatic, and delectable coffee that can be served hot or cold. Traditionally, Vietnamese have our cup of coffee black or with condensed milk, you can adjust the coffee to your taste by adding milk, sugar, and syrups to make a more visually appealing cup of coffee.

Get authentic Vietnamese coffee at 88 Coffee

At 88 Coffee, we prioritize quality and authenticity, ensuring that each cup of coffee embodies the rich and fragrant flavor of Vietnam. Our commitment to sourcing the finest beans and employing the traditional butter roast process guarantees the genuine essence of Vietnamese coffee. To complete a cup of coffee, a phin filter is indispensable.

with 88 coffee you can taste vietnam the way it truly is
With 88 Coffee, you can taste Vietnam the way it truly is

88 Coffee's phin filter product not only ensures a perfect cup of coffee, but the red bag and golden sun are inspired by the lucky money envelope to wish good luck to customers. The strong tastes are captured by the slow drip method, giving you a distinctive and unique cup of coffee.

With 88 Coffee, you can savor the true flavor of Vietnam, where each coffee bean has a unique story to tell and each sip honors the vibrant coffee culture that defines our nation. For an unmatched coffee experience that embodies Vietnam in each wonderful cup, go with 88 Coffee.