Vietnamese Coffee : A Unique Iced Coffee Tradition

Coffee was introduced into Vietnam by French colonists in the late 19th century. Vietnam quickly became a strong exporter of coffee with many plantations in the central highlands. The beverage was adopted with regional variations. Because of limitations on the availability of fresh milk, the French and Vietnamese began to use sweetened condensed milk with a dark roast coffee.

Vietnamese iced coffee, also known as Ca phe da or cafe da (Vietnamese: cà phê đá, literally "coffee ice") is a traditional Vietnamese coffee recipe.

"Vietnamese iced coffee with milk", also known as ca phe sua da or cà phê sữa đá It is also called ca phe nau da (Vietnamese: cà phê nâu đá, "iced brown coffee") in northern Vietnam.

At its simplest, Ca phe da is made with finely ground Vietnamese-grown dark roast coffee individually brewed with a small metal French drip filter (cà phê phin) into a cup containing about a quarter to a half as much sweetened condensed milk, stirred and poured over ice.

In the USA, Vietnamese-style coffee is sometimes confused with that brewed in Louisiana with French roast coffee with chicory. Vietnamese immigrants who came to the state in the late 20th century adopted New Orleans-style coffee because they were unable to get Vietnamese-grown coffee. The French roast style popular in Louisiana was similar to Vietnamese coffee in its relatively coarse grind; therefore it made an excellent substitute for traditional brewing in the single-serving filter/brewer. In Vietnam, however, locally produced coffees are characterized by medium roast and seldom contain chicory. [source : Vietnamese Coffee]

Discover A New Coffee Flavor Through Coffee Blends

A coffee blend refers to the combination of two or more types of coffee or flavorings as a single brew. This combination of flavors helps to give the coffee a more complex taste, as well as allowing individuals or restaurants to create their own signature blend. Blends can include various types of coffee beans, flavors, or even non-coffee additions that are added directly into the mixture.

There are two kinds of coffee bean, each with its own distinct characteristics. Arabica beans are grown at high altitudes and are the highest quality bean. They have a smooth caramel aftertaste and a rich aroma that has become characteristic with fine coffee. Robusta beans, by comparison, are grown at lower altitudes and have a much stronger flavor. This bean is generally used in making instant coffee and lower grade commercial coffees. Some coffee blends may combine both beans in the same brew to take advantage of both unique flavors.

The type of beans used is not the only factor in choosing a coffee blend's flavor. Various types of roasting methods produce very different flavors and aromas. American roast, for example, is a medium roast that has a mild flavor. French roasted beans are heavily roasted and have a very strong flavor. Often beans that have been roasted differently are combined to create a unique coffee blend.

Various other flavorings and ingredients can also be combined with the beans to create more coffee blend options. Often vanilla, cinnamon, or hazelnut will be added to give a hint of their unique flavors to the brew. Milk, either as a creamer or frothed, is also commonly added to create common coffee drinks found in cafes the world over.

Make a coffee blend at home by experimenting with various flavors and spices. This can include creamers and milks, as well as seasonings found in the pantry. Nutmeg, cinnamon, and caramel are all common additions to coffee beverages. The possibilities are endless with just a little imagination. 

Coffee beans can also be roasted or brewed together with flavorings, like vanilla, to create virtually limitless coffee blend varieties. When roasted with these flavors, the bean itself takes on a slight hint of the ingredient. This allows one to discover which flavors combine the best, as well as how to create the perfect strength.

Creating a new coffee blend is a great way to suit just about any taste, as well as to create a brand for a restaurant or café. Many chains have crafted a taste so unique, it has become the trademark of that business. Anyone can do this for themselves with a little patience and a willingness to experiment. [source : Coffee Blends]