How to Make a Delicious Vietnamese Egg Coffee at Home

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:

  1. Place the phin filter over your cup and add 2 tablespoons of ground coffee.
  2. Gently press the filter press onto the coffee grounds.
  3. Pour a small amount of hot water (about 20 ml) to let the coffee bloom for 30 seconds.
  4. Add the remaining hot water (about 100 ml) and let the coffee drip slowly into the cup. This process should take 4-5 minutes.
  5. 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

  1. Separate the egg yolk from the egg white and place the yolk in a mixing bowl.
  2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and sugar (if using) to the egg yolk.
  3. 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

  1. Pour the freshly brewed coffee into a heatproof cup or glass.
  2. Gently spoon the whipped egg mixture on top of the coffee. The egg foam should float over the coffee, creating a layered effect.
  3. 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!

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