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Vietnamese Salt Coffee

Vietnamese salt coffee is a layered drink combining dark roast coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and a whipped salty cream topping that creates an unexpected and delicious balance of sweet, bitter, and salty flavors.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tablespoons finely ground dark roast coffee
  • 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
  • 7 ounces hot water 200-205°F

Equipment

  • Vietnamese coffee phin filter (metal drip filter)
  • Coffee mug or cup
  • Small spoon for stirring and whipping
  • Kettle or hot water source
  • Measuring spoon

Method
 

  1. Pour 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk into the bottom of your coffee cup.
  2. Place the metal phin filter on top of your cup, making sure it sits securely on the rim.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons of finely ground dark roast coffee to the metal chamber of the phin.
  4. Place the small metal press on top of the coffee grounds and press down gently to compress slightly.
  5. Pour about 1 ounce of hot water slowly into the phin to saturate the coffee grounds completely for blooming.
  6. Wait 30 seconds to let the grounds rest and release their flavors.
  7. Pour the remaining 6 ounces of hot water into the phin chamber slowly and steadily, filling it about three-quarters full.
  8. Wait 2 to 3 minutes for all the water to drip through the filter into your cup until dripping slows to occasional drops.
  9. Carefully lift off the phin filter and set it aside, then stir your coffee and condensed milk together thoroughly.
  10. Spoon a small amount of the brewed coffee back into your cup, then add 1/8 teaspoon of sea salt to it.
  11. Whip this salt mixture vigorously with a small spoon for 15 to 20 seconds until it becomes light, foamy, and pale.
  12. Spoon the whipped salty mixture onto the top of your coffee, letting it float on the surface, and serve immediately without stirring.

Notes

The key to a perfect Vietnamese salt coffee is not stirring it all together right away; let that salty top layer sit for the first few sips so you get the intended flavor progression from salty to creamy to bold. Use freshly ground coffee beans if possible and keep water temperature between 200-205°F. Experiment with salt ratios to find your perfect balance.