If you want Vietnamese iced coffee at home but you do not have a phin filter or an espresso machine, you might wonder whether instant coffee can work. It can work. Here you will learn how to make Vietnamese iced coffee with instant coffee.
Key Takeaways
- You can make Vietnamese iced coffee with instant coffee.
- Instant coffee dissolves easily, making it the quickest shortcut version of Vietnamese iced coffee.
- Dark roast or Vietnamese-style instant coffee creates the most authentic flavor.
- You can control sweetness and strength by adjusting the amount of instant coffee and condensed milk.
Does Instant Coffee Work for Vietnamese Iced Coffee?
Yes. Instant coffee can work for Vietnamese iced coffee, but the flavour will be different from a traditional version.
How it compares to a phin brew:
- Richness: Instant coffee is lighter and less syrupy than a phin drip.
- Texture: Phin coffee has more body, while instant coffee feels smoother and thinner.
- Bitterness: Instant coffee can taste milder, unless you use Robusta instant.
- Aroma: Phin coffee is more aromatic, but dark roast instant coffee comes close.
What Kind of Instant Coffee Should You Use?
Choosing the right instant coffee makes the biggest difference in flavor. Make sure to use:
- Dark Roast Instant Coffee: This gives you the deepest flavor and the closest match to a Vietnamese-style profile.
- Vietnamese Instant Coffee: This option is the most authentic.
How to Make Vietnamese Iced Coffee with Instant Coffee
You will need:
Ingredients
- Instant coffee (Robusta or dark roast recommended)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Ice (large cubes hold up best)
- Optional additions:
- Pinch of salt
- Cacao powder
- Coconut cream
Equipment
- Tall glass
- Spoon
- Kettle or any method to heat water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of condensed milk to your glass.
This creates the sweet base. Adjust later if needed.
Dissolve 1 to 2 teaspoons of instant coffee in hot water.
Use just enough water to create a thick coffee concentrate.
Stir until fully dissolved.
Make sure no granules remain.
Pour the hot coffee mixture over the condensed milk.
The heat will help the condensed milk melt.
Stir until completely combined.
You should have a smooth, caramel-colored coffee base.
Fill the glass with ice.
Large ice cubes keep the drink from getting watered down.
Taste and adjust.
Add more instant coffee for boldness or more condensed milk for sweetness.
Add optional toppings or flavors if desired.
A pinch of salt enhances sweetness and reduces bitterness.
You may find this interesting: Vegan Vietnamese Iced Coffee Recipe
How Strong Will Instant Coffee Taste?
Instant coffee has a lighter body than phin-brewed Vietnamese coffee, but you can still make it bold.
Here is how to make it stronger:
- Add more instant coffee granules
- Use less water when dissolving
- Double the coffee portion
- Use Vietnamese instant coffee
Does Instant Coffee Affect Caffeine Levels?
Yes, slightly. Instant coffee usually contains less caffeine than phin-brewed Robusta because it is typically made with Arabica or blends.
Approximate caffeine comparison:
Instant coffee (6 oz with 1-2 teaspoons): 45 to 50 mg
Phin-brewed Robusta (3 to 4 oz): 100 to 130 mg
Espresso shot: 60 to 65 mg
Drip coffee (8 oz): 95 to 120 mg
FAQ
Can you make it with flavored instant coffee?
Yes. Vanilla or mocha instant coffee can add extra sweetness, but it will taste less authentic.
Does instant coffee taste like the real thing?
Not exactly. It is lighter and less syrupy than a phin brew, but with the right ratios, it still tastes strong, sweet, and delicious.
How much condensed milk should I use?
Start with 1 to 2 tablespoons. Add more if you want a richer sweetness.