How to Make Black Coffee with Ice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Black Coffee with Ice, known locally as 'Kopi O Peng', is a beloved beverage found in every corner of Singapore, from bustling kopitiams (coffee shops) to modern cafes. This refreshing drink is deeply rooted in Singaporean hawker culture, serving as a daily staple for locals seeking a quick caffeine fix, especially in the warm, humid climate. Traditionally, it’s made with robust local coffee beans roasted with sugar, delivering a bold, aromatic brew poured over ice for a cooling treat. The beverage's simplicity and versatility make it popular among all ages, reflecting Singapore's multicultural heritage and fusion influences. Enjoyed during breakfast or lunch, Black Coffee with Ice is a healthier alternative to sweetened coffees, as it allows the natural flavors of the coffee to shine without added sugars or cream. Its invigorating taste and low-calorie profile have made it a favorite among health-conscious Singaporeans, especially those tracking their daily intake. Whether at a hawker centre or a trendy cafe, this drink perfectly embodies Singapore’s vibrant food scene, where tradition meets innovation.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Boil filtered water and let it cool for 1 minute to avoid scorching...
Boil filtered water and let it cool for 1 minute to avoid scorching the coffee powder.
Step 2 · Place Singapore-style kopi powder in a coffee sock or fine mesh fil...
Place Singapore-style kopi powder in a coffee sock or fine mesh filter over a jug.
Step 3 · Slowly pour hot water through the coffee powder
Slowly pour hot water through the coffee powder, allowing it to drip and extract robust flavor.
Step 4 · Add a pinch of salt and optional vanilla extract or lemon zest to t...
Add a pinch of salt and optional vanilla extract or lemon zest to the jug. Stir gently.
Step 5 · If desired
If desired, mix in stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a healthier sweetness.
Step 6 · Fill tall glasses with ice cubes
Fill tall glasses with ice cubes. Pour the brewed coffee over ice, allowing it to chill instantly.
Step 7 · Insert reusable straw for eco-friendly serving and stir before drin...
Insert reusable straw for eco-friendly serving and stir before drinking.
Step 8 · Serve immediately for maximum refreshment
Serve immediately for maximum refreshment.
Why this recipe is healthy
This beverage is a healthy choice because it avoids high-calorie additives like condensed milk or sugar, allowing you to enjoy coffee’s inherent health benefits. Antioxidants in coffee boost metabolism and support cardiovascular health, while the absence of dairy makes it vegan-adaptable. The option to use natural sweeteners ensures it remains low GI, suitable for diabetics. Its hydrating and energizing properties make it ideal for active lifestyles and calorie-conscious individuals.
A note on tradition
In Singapore, Black Coffee with Ice (Kopi O Peng) is a cornerstone of daily life, commonly enjoyed at kopitiams across the island. It embodies Singapore’s hawker culture, where affordable, flavorful drinks are part of social gatherings and quick meals. The drink’s popularity surged with the rise of fusion cafes, blending traditional kopi brewing with modern twists. Typically consumed during breakfast or lunch, it is especially favored during the hot months and has become a symbol of Singapore’s multicultural food landscape.