Are you a fan of Starbucks' unique and subtly sweet Cafe Muối? This Vietnamese coffee drink, with its delightful blend of salty and sweet, is a true taste sensation. Forget expensive cafe trips – this easy recipe lets you recreate this delicious beverage in the comfort of your own home. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for a pick-me-up or a relaxing evening treat! Get ready to enjoy a homemade version that's just as delicious, if not better!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee (Vietnamese coffee is best, but any dark roast will work)
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup hot water (or more, to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Optional: Whipped cream, a sprinkle of sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
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Brew your coffee: Start by brewing your favorite strong coffee. If using Vietnamese coffee, use a phin filter for the authentic experience. Let the coffee cool slightly.
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Combine ingredients: In a glass, combine the brewed coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Stir well until the salt and condensed milk are completely dissolved.
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Add hot water: Gradually add hot water, stirring continuously, until you reach your desired sweetness and strength. Taste as you go – some prefer a stronger coffee flavor, while others prefer a more diluted drink.
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Chill it down: Fill the glass with ice cubes. For a truly refreshing experience, you can chill the coffee mixture beforehand.
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Garnish and serve: If desired, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cafe Muối:
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Coffee Choice: The quality of your coffee significantly impacts the overall flavor. A rich, dark roast coffee will work best, complementing the sweetness and salt. Vietnamese coffee offers a robust and slightly bitter profile that pairs exceptionally well with the other ingredients.
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Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your preference. You can start with less and gradually add more until you achieve your desired level of sweetness.
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Salt is Key: Don’t be shy with the salt! The salt enhances the sweetness of the condensed milk and adds a surprising yet delightful savory note that balances the overall flavor profile. Experiment with different types of sea salt to find your favorite.
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Ice Matters: Use plenty of ice to keep your Cafe Muối refreshingly cold. Crushed ice will also help the drink chill faster.
Variations:
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Iced Version: Skip the hot water and add ice immediately after mixing the coffee, condensed milk, and salt.
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Creamy Cafe Muối: Add a splash of your favorite milk or cream for a richer, creamier texture.
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Spiced Cafe Muối: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm, spiced twist.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This will vary depending on the coffee and milk used. This is an estimate for a standard serving:
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Sugar: High (due to condensed milk)
- Fat: Moderate
- Protein: Low
This delicious homemade Cafe Muối is a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and unique coffee drinks at home. It's a healthy alternative to store-bought sugary drinks. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe, and impress your friends and family with your newfound barista skills! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for parties or as a special treat for yourself.