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Vietnamese Iced Black Coffee
Beverages • Singapore
How to Make Vietnamese Iced Black Coffee (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Vietnamese Iced Black Coffee, or 'Ca Phe Da', has steadily found its place in Singapore’s vibrant beverage scene, especially at kopitiams and modern cafes. Thanks to Singapore's love for coffee culture and its openness to regional fusion, this bold, refreshing drink is becoming a mainstay among locals who enjoy the strong, aromatic kick of robusta or arabica beans served over ice. The Vietnamese style brings a unique twist to the local kopi tradition—think less sweetness, more depth, and a crisp finish, perfect for Singapore’s tropical climate. At Singaporean hawker centres, you'll often spot Vietnamese Iced Black Coffee alongside familiar kopitiam brews, reflecting the city’s fusion-driven culinary landscape. While traditionally made with Vietnamese coffee grounds, local adaptations sometimes incorporate Singapore’s own kopi powder for a more robust flavour. This beverage is ideal for those seeking a low-calorie, vegetarian-friendly option that delivers pure coffee pleasure without the heaviness of condensed milk. Its clean, slightly bitter profile is a refreshing alternative for anyone watching their sugar intake, and it pairs beautifully with classic hawker fare. Whether you’re enjoying a morning pick-me-up or a cooling afternoon treat, Vietnamese Iced Black Coffee is a perfect fit for Singapore’s health-conscious coffee lovers.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (about 250ml), typical Singapore kopitiam portion)
- 4 tablespoons Vietnamese ground coffee or Singaporean kopi powder (Local kopi powder can be used)
- 2 cups Filtered water (Boiled and cooled)
- 2 cups Ice cubes (Kopitiam-style ice)
- 2 teaspoons Palm sugar syrup (Optional for a hint of sweetness) - optional
- 2 wedges Lime wedge (Optional, for a refreshing twist) - optional
- 1 Coffee filter (phin or reusable drip filter) (Traditional Vietnamese phin or any local filter)
- 2 tablespoons Low-fat milk (Optional, vegan substitutes available) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla essence (Optional for aroma) - optional
- Pinch Cinnamon powder (Optional for added flavour) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Boil filtered water and allow it to cool slightly, ensuring it reaches approximately 90°C for optimal extraction.
5 minutes
Use freshly boiled water for a cleaner taste.
- 2
Place Vietnamese ground coffee or local kopi powder into the coffee filter (phin or reusable drip filter). Gently press down to level the grounds.
3 minutes
Avoid tamping too hard to ensure proper extraction.
- 3
Slowly pour hot water over the coffee grounds, allowing it to drip through. This process should take about 5–7 minutes for a concentrated brew.
7 minutes
Cover the filter while brewing to retain heat and aroma.
- 4
Once brewed, pour the coffee concentrate into a glass. If desired, stir in palm sugar syrup, low-fat milk, vanilla essence, or cinnamon powder for customisation.
3 minutes
For a vegan version, use oat or almond milk.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This beverage is a healthy choice thanks to its minimal use of sugar and fat. Its caffeine content supports alertness and metabolism, making it ideal for weight management and active lifestyles. By swapping condensed milk for low-fat or plant-based options, Vietnamese Iced Black Coffee fits well into vegetarian and vegan diets. The drink’s clean profile also makes it suitable for diabetic and weight-conscious individuals, providing energy without unnecessary calories.
Vietnamese Iced Black Coffee is naturally low in calories, fat, and sugar, especially when served without condensed milk. The beverage provides antioxidants from coffee, which help combat oxidative stress and may support heart health. Using palm sugar in moderation offers trace minerals, while optional milk or plant-based substitutes supply calcium and protein. The drink contains no gluten or dairy unless milk is added, making it adaptable for most diets. If using lime, you also gain a small boost of vitamin C.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly ground coffee beans for maximum aroma and flavour.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust the brew time for your preferred strength—longer for more robust coffee.
- 💡Tip 3: Experiment with plant-based milks and spices for unique flavour profiles.
Storage & Serving
Best served fresh. Store brewed coffee concentrate in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Avoid storing with ice, as it will dilute the flavour.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 10.0 kcal |
