When it comes to refreshingly bold and robust coffee experiences, few beverages can rival the indulgent delight of Vietnamese iced coffee. Renowned for its distinct taste, smooth texture, and captivating aroma, this delightful concoction has become a staple in Vietnam and gained international recognition. To truly appreciate this beverage, it is important to delve into its origins and explore the fascinating history behind Vietnamese iced coffee. I still recall going to Vietnamese restaurants with my family and eating Pho and drinking ice coffee. We did this in Saigon, as well as when we settled in America. I loved going to cafes in San Jose, California and getting to be the first of my siblings to have a sip. Once while visiting my mother at a Buddhist temple I snuck into the monk’s private quarters. I think I was 8yrs old. Before I knew how Vietnamese coffee was made I took a spoonful of the Cafe du Monde and quickly spit it out. Lesson learned.

Origins of Vietnamese Coffee Culture:

Vietnam has a deep-rooted coffee culture that dates back to the 19th century when French colonizers introduced coffee plants to the region. Initially, coffee production in Vietnam was primarily focused on meeting the demands of the French market. However, following Vietnam’s independence in the mid-20th century, coffee consumption shifted towards catering to the local population. Coffee quickly emerged as a staple for soldiers during the Vietnam War. With its energizing properties, it provided a much-needed boost in the harsh conditions of the battlefield. From early morning patrols to late-night vigils, soldiers relied on coffee to combat fatigue and stay alert during long hours of combat.

Coffee became a source of solace and a reminder of home for American troops stationed thousands of miles away from their families. It offered a semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos of war, providing a familiar taste and a comforting aroma that connected them to their civilian lives. The demand for coffee in Vietnam skyrocketed as the war escalated, creating a lucrative market for suppliers. American companies quickly capitalized on this opportunity, establishing large-scale operations to provide coffee to the troops. Known as the “Military-Industrial Coffee Complex,” these companies played a significant role in sustaining the war effort and profiting from the conflict.

Coffee not only served as a crucial commodity for American troops but also acted as a bridge between soldiers and the local Vietnamese population. Sharing a cup of coffee became a common practice, facilitating interactions and fostering a sense of camaraderie between soldiers and villagers. It offered an opportunity for cultural exchange, enabling soldiers to gain insights into the Vietnamese way of life while leaving a lasting impression on the local communities. The Vietnam War had a lasting impact on the coffee industry in Vietnam, transforming the country into one of the world’s largest coffee producers. As American soldiers introduced the local population to the beverage, coffee cultivation and production expanded rapidly. Today, Vietnam is renowned for its robusta coffee, exporting a significant portion of its crop to coffee lovers worldwide.

Development of Vietnamese Iced Coffee:

The unique brewing method of Vietnamese iced coffee can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the availability of local ingredients and cultural influences. The traditional Vietnamese coffee is known as “cà phê đá,” which translates to “ice coffee.”

Key Elements of Vietnamese Iced Coffee:

1. Robusta Beans: Vietnam’s favorable climate and fertile soil make it an ideal environment for cultivating robusta coffee beans. Robusta beans are known for their higher caffeine content and distinct flavor profile, which is more bitter and earthy compared to the milder Arabica beans commonly used in Western coffee traditions.
2. Phin Filter: The iconic phin filter is a small metal drip filter that sits atop a coffee cup or glass. This brewing tool allows the coffee grounds to steep slowly, extracting rich flavors and oils, resulting in a strong and concentrated brew.
3. Sweetened Condensed Milk: Instead of traditional milk or cream, Vietnamese iced coffee incorporates sweetened condensed milk. This addition adds a creamy, silky texture to the beverage while providing a balanced sweetness that complements the robust coffee flavors.

The Brewing Process:

Preparing Vietnamese iced coffee is a deliberate and patient process that requires attention to detail:

1. Start by adding 2-3 tablespoons of medium to coarse ground coffee into the phin filter. Gently press the coffee grounds down to ensure even distribution.
2. Place the phin filter on top of a glass or cup, and pour a small amount of hot water (about 1/4 cup) over the coffee grounds. Allow the coffee to bloom for a few seconds.
3. After the initial bloom, slowly add the remaining hot water to the phin filter, filling it to the brim. Place the filter’s lid on top and let the coffee drip through gradually.
4. Once the coffee has finished dripping (typically takes 5-7 minutes), remove the phin filter, and stir the brewed coffee and condensed milk together.
5. Fill a separate glass with ice cubes and pour the brewed coffee over the ice.
6. Stir well to ensure the coffee is thoroughly chilled and blended with the melted ice.
7. Adjust the sweetness by adding more condensed milk if desired.

Cultural Significance and Global Popularity:

Vietnamese iced coffee has not only become an integral part of daily life in Vietnam but has also garnered a devoted following worldwide. Its rise in popularity can be attributed to Vietnamese diaspora communities, international travelers, and coffee enthusiasts who have had the pleasure of experiencing its unique taste and preparation. Vietnamese iced coffee is a delightful blend of tradition, ingenuity, and the cultural heritage of Vietnam. Its roots can be traced back to the French colonial period and the subsequent evolution of Vietnam’s coffee industry. This invigorating beverage encapsulates the distinct flavors of Vietnamese coffee beans and the sweet creaminess of condensed milk.

Ep 14 | GWWM Black April The Fall of South Vietnam, and more. Author George J Veith