Kopi C
Hawker • Singapore
About Kopi C
Coffee with evaporated milk — lighter than kopi
How to Make Kopi C (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kopi C is a beloved Singaporean beverage that perfectly encapsulates the island’s vibrant hawker culture and multicultural influences. Found in nearly every kopitiam (traditional coffee shop) across Singapore, Kopi C is distinct for its smooth blend of robust Nanyang-style coffee and evaporated milk, resulting in a lighter, silkier cup compared to the richer, condensed milk-laden Kopi. Its unique style reflects Singapore’s passion for local flavors and creative fusion twists, making it a staple morning pick-me-up or afternoon treat for people from all walks of life. Unlike many sugary coffee beverages, Kopi C offers a balanced, aromatic taste with a gentler sweetness. The use of evaporated milk not only reduces overall sugar content but also delivers a creamy mouthfeel without heaviness. This makes Kopi C a fantastic choice for health-conscious individuals who want to enjoy an authentic Singaporean drink without overindulging. Sipping a cup of Kopi C in a bustling kopitiam is a quintessential Singapore experience, blending nostalgia, tradition, and a touch of modern health awareness.
Ingredients(for 1 regular kopitiam cup (about 180 ml) per serving)
- 4 tablespoons Nanyang coffee powder (Freshly ground, available at local markets)
- 400 ml Hot water (Just off the boil)
- 60 ml Evaporated milk (Carnation or local brand, unsweetened)
- 2 teaspoons Low-calorie sweetener or sugar (Adjust to taste; use sugar for authentic version, low-calorie for healthier)
- optional Ice cubes (For iced Kopi C (Kopi C Peng)) - optional
- 1 Coffee sock or fine mesh strainer (For traditional brewing)
- 2 Kopitiam cup or mug (Classic ceramic preferred)
- 100 ml Hot water (for warming cups) (Optional, helps retain heat) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the kopitiam cups by rinsing them with hot water. Discard the water.
2 minutes
Warming the cups keeps the coffee hotter for longer.
- 2
Place the Nanyang coffee powder into the coffee sock or fine mesh strainer set over a jug.
2 minutes
Use freshly ground Nanyang coffee for a more authentic aroma.
- 3
Pour 400 ml of hot water (just off the boil) slowly over the coffee grounds, letting it steep and drip through.
5 minutes
Pour in a steady, circular motion to evenly extract flavor.
- 4
Allow the brewed coffee to drip fully, then gently squeeze the coffee sock to extract maximum flavor.
3 minutes
Don’t over-squeeze, which can make the coffee bitter.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Kopi C recipe is a smart choice for coffee lovers seeking authentic Singapore flavor without excess calories or sugar. Evaporated milk offers creaminess with less fat than condensed milk, while low-calorie sweetener helps manage blood sugar and reduces overall caloric intake. This makes Kopi C suitable for weight management, diabetic diets, and anyone looking to enjoy a local favorite guilt-free.
Kopi C can be a nutritious part of your diet when made with unsweetened evaporated milk and minimal sugar. The beverage contains protein and calcium from the milk, and coffee provides antioxidants and a metabolism boost. Using low-calorie sweeteners reduces carbohydrate content, making it suitable for those watching their sugar intake. Each cup is relatively low in fat and can be enjoyed as a lighter alternative to condensed milk-based kopi.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use traditional Nanyang coffee powder for the most authentic flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust the milk and sweetener to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- 💡Tip 3: For a frothier texture, pour the coffee back and forth between two mugs before serving.
Storage & Serving
Best enjoyed fresh. Store leftover Kopi C in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir well before drinking. Not recommended for freezing.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 95.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14.0 g |
| Total Fat | 4.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
