Vietnamese Egg Coffee, or “Cà Phê Trứng,” is a delightful and unique coffee drink that originated in Hanoi, Vietnam. This rich and creamy beverage combines the bold flavors of strong Vietnamese coffee with a sweet and velvety egg yolk mixture, creating a luxurious treat that is perfect for coffee lovers looking to try something new. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make a delicious Vietnamese Egg Coffee at home.
A Brief History of Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Vietnamese Egg Coffee dates back to the 1940s when dairy shortages in Vietnam led to creative solutions for creamy coffee. Nguyễn Văn Giảng, a bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel in Hanoi, invented this drink as a substitute for milk-based coffee drinks. He whisked egg yolks with sugar to create a frothy, custard-like topping for strong Vietnamese coffee, and the result quickly became a beloved treat.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make an authentic Vietnamese Egg Coffee, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Coffee:
- 2 tablespoons of Vietnamese ground coffee (such as Trung Nguyên or Cafe Du Monde with chicory)
- 120 ml (4 oz) of hot water
For the Egg Cream:
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon for dusting
- Whipped cream for extra creaminess
Equipment You Will Need
- A Vietnamese phin filter (or any strong brewing method like espresso or French press)
- A small mixing bowl
- A hand whisk, electric whisk, or milk frother
- A heatproof cup or glass
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Coffee
If you have a Vietnamese phin filter, follow these steps to brew your coffee:
- Place the phin filter over your cup and add 2 tablespoons of ground coffee.
- Gently press the filter press onto the coffee grounds.
- Pour a small amount of hot water (about 20 ml) to let the coffee bloom for 30 seconds.
- Add the remaining hot water (about 100 ml) and let the coffee drip slowly into the cup. This process should take 4-5 minutes.
- Once the coffee is brewed, set it aside.
Alternatively, if you do not have a phin filter, you can use a French press or make a strong shot of espresso using an espresso machine.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Separate the egg yolk from the egg white and place the yolk in a mixing bowl.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and sugar (if using) to the egg yolk.
- Use a hand whisk, electric whisk, or milk frother to beat the mixture until it becomes thick, pale, and frothy. This can take 3-5 minutes. The texture should resemble a light custard or meringue.
Step 3: Assemble the Coffee
- Pour the freshly brewed coffee into a heatproof cup or glass.
- Gently spoon the whipped egg mixture on top of the coffee. The egg foam should float over the coffee, creating a layered effect.
- Optionally, dust the top with cocoa powder or cinnamon for extra flavor.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Vietnamese Egg Coffee is best enjoyed while warm. Some people like to stir the layers together for a creamy, well-balanced drink, while others prefer to sip the coffee through the frothy egg layer. Either way, it is a delightful experience!
Tips for the Perfect Vietnamese Egg Coffee
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs: Since the egg yolk is not fully cooked, it’s important to use the freshest eggs available to ensure food safety.
- Choose strong coffee: Vietnamese coffee is known for its bold flavor. If you can’t find Vietnamese coffee, opt for a dark roast coffee or espresso.
- Whisk thoroughly: The key to a great egg coffee is achieving a thick, airy, and creamy egg foam. Using an electric whisk or milk frother makes this process easier.
- Serve in a warm cup: To maintain the temperature of your drink, pre-warm your cup before pouring in the coffee.
Variations to Try
While the classic Vietnamese Egg Coffee is already a treat, here are some fun variations to experiment with:
- Iced Egg Coffee: Prepare the coffee and egg foam as usual but serve it over ice for a refreshing twist.
- Chocolate Egg Coffee: Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to the egg mixture for a mocha-like version.
- Coconut Egg Coffee: Mix a small amount of coconut milk into the egg mixture for a tropical flair.
- Alcoholic Egg Coffee: Add a splash of rum or Baileys for a boozy dessert-style drink.
Conclusion
Making Vietnamese Egg Coffee at home is a fun and rewarding experience that brings a taste of Hanoi’s rich coffee culture to your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and some practice, you can master this creamy, flavorful drink and impress your family and friends. Whether enjoyed as a morning indulgence or an after-dinner treat, Vietnamese Egg Coffee is sure to become a favorite in your coffee repertoire. Give it a try today and savor the magic of this unique coffee creation!