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
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Preheat the kopitiam cups by rinsing them with hot water
Preheat the kopitiam cups by rinsing them with hot water. Discard the water.
Step 2 · Place the Nanyang coffee powder into the coffee sock or fine mesh s...
Place the Nanyang coffee powder into the coffee sock or fine mesh strainer set over a jug.
Step 3 · Pour 400 ml of hot water (just off the boil) slowly over the coffee...
Pour 400 ml of hot water (just off the boil) slowly over the coffee grounds, letting it steep and drip through.
Step 4 · Allow the brewed coffee to drip fully
Allow the brewed coffee to drip fully, then gently squeeze the coffee sock to extract maximum flavor.
Step 5 · Add 30 ml of evaporated milk to each cup
Add 30 ml of evaporated milk to each cup. Adjust the amount for a lighter or creamier texture as desired.
Step 6 · Sweeten each cup with 1 teaspoon low-calorie sweetener or sugar
Sweeten each cup with 1 teaspoon low-calorie sweetener or sugar. Stir well to blend.
Step 7 · For iced Kopi C (Kopi C Peng)
For iced Kopi C (Kopi C Peng), fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the coffee mixture over.
Step 8 · Serve immediately while hot or cold
Serve immediately while hot or cold, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Singapore’s Kopi C!
Why this recipe 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.
A note on tradition
Kopi C is a core part of Singapore’s kopi culture, cherished in hawker centres and kopitiams from Tiong Bahru to Chinatown. Its roots reflect Singapore’s unique blend of local and migrant influences, with Hainanese coffee shop owners creating variations to cater to diverse palates. Kopi C is typically enjoyed at breakfast or during mid-morning breaks, alongside kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs—a ritual that brings together Singaporeans of all backgrounds.