Originating from the French colonial era in the mid-19th century, coffee in Vietnam has evolved into a cherished culinary tradition, steeped in cultural significance. Beyond its role as a mere beverage, coffee serves as a symbol of social connection—a ritual of camaraderie shared among friends and colleagues.
Iced Milk Coffee: A Vietnamese Icon
The Michelin Guide hails Vietnamese iced milk coffee as a “real gem” among the nation’s coffee offerings. This beloved brew is crafted by allowing finely ground coffee to slowly drip through a filter into a glass filled with condensed milk and ice. The harmonious blend of robust coffee and creamy sweetness captivates coffee enthusiasts, transcending from humble street stalls to grace the menus of esteemed establishments worldwide.
Bac Xiu: A Fusion of Cultural Flavors
Crafted by Saigon’s Chinese community in the early 20th century, Bac Xiu coffee blends elements of Chinese, Vietnamese, and French cultures into a harmonious concoction. Recognizing the challenge posed by the bitter taste of traditional coffee for some palates, the Chinese community creatively adjusted the coffee-to-milk ratio to enhance its appeal, resulting in a delightful beverage that bridges cultural boundaries.
Egg Coffee: A Hanoi Masterpiece
In the bustling streets of Hanoi, egg coffee emerged as a culinary marvel during the 1940s. Faced with soaring prices of sugar and milk, Mr. Giang, founder of Giang Coffee Shop, ingeniously substituted egg yolks for traditional dairy products. This innovative twist yields a velvety golden cream atop a rich coffee base, marrying bitterness with the smooth, indulgent texture of eggs—a sensory delight that has garnered acclaim from the Michelin Guide.
Salt Coffee: A Culinary Adventure
Hailing from the ancient capital of Hue, salt coffee represents a fusion of tradition and innovation. This unique blend combines robusta coffee beans with a hint of salt, creating a symphony of flavors that harmonize sweet, salty, and bitter notes in perfect balance—a culinary adventure for the senses.
Coconut Milk Coffee: A Symphony of Flavors
Reflecting Vietnam’s affinity for coconut-based delicacies, coconut milk coffee dazzles with its exquisite blend of aromatic coffee, creamy coconut milk, and sweet condensed milk. This meticulously crafted beverage tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors and visually stunning presentation—an experience akin to a tropical paradise.
Fruity Cold Brew: A Refreshing Twist
Lychee Cold-Brew
Adding a contemporary twist to Vietnam’s coffee culture, fruity cold brews have captured the hearts of urbanites in bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. By infusing 100% Arabica coffee with vibrant fruit flavors such as orange, lychee, or apricot, this innovative beverage elevates the coffee-drinking experience to new heights of refreshment and enjoyment.
In celebrating the rich tapestry of Vietnamese coffee culture, the Michelin Guide invites coffee enthusiasts on a journey of discovery—a sensory exploration of flavors, aromas, and traditions that define Vietnam’s vibrant culinary landscape.
@thanhnien.vn
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Source: Vietnam Insider