Unique Recipes and Perfect Pairings

01-11-2024

Unique Recipes and Perfect Pairings

When it comes to coffee, every cup tells a story - of origin, craftsmanship, and culture. Here at Sử Quán Roastery, we’re dedicated to preserving the tradition and art of Vietnamese coffee-making, a process that showcases the robust flavors of Vietnam’s signature Robusta beans. Let’s dive into the journey of Vietnamese coffee and explore how it stands apart from the renowned Arabica beans used across the world. We’ll also share some unique Vietnamese recipes and ideal pairings to elevate your coffee experience.

Robusta vs. Arabica: Understanding the Difference

In the global coffee landscape, two beans take center stage: Robusta and Arabica. While Arabica is widely celebrated for its smooth, delicate flavors, Robusta is known for its rich, bold profile and higher caffeine content. Here in Vietnam, our tropical climate and high-altitude farms provide the perfect setting for cultivating Robusta, resulting in a bean with earthy notes, a deep body, and a touch of natural bitterness that makes Vietnamese coffee truly unique.

5 điều khác biệt giữa Arabica và Robusta - Sơn Pacamara

5 điều khác biệt giữa Arabica và Robusta - Sơn Pacamara

Vietnamese Coffee Recipes to Try

1. Vietnamese Iced Coffee - Cà Phê Sữa Đá

This classic brew combines a bold shot of Robusta with sweetened condensed milk, poured over ice for a refreshing, creamy taste that’s both strong and smooth.

2. Egg Coffee - Cà Phê Trứng

Egg yolk, cinnamon oil and condensed milk are whipped to a creamy froth and layered over Robusta coffee. This dessert-like drink is rich, velvety, and has a custard-like sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the robust coffee.

3. Coconut Coffee - Cà Phê Cốt Dừa

Combining the smoothness of coconut milk with strong Robusta coffee, this iced drink is creamy, tropical, and slightly nutty.

Coffee Pairing and Tasting Tips

Unlike the lightly roasted Arabica beans of Western coffees, Robusta coffee is typically roasted darker, bringing out its robust, earthy flavors. Besides, for most Vietnamese, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s often part of a larger experience with snacks and treats that complement its bold flavors. Here are some popular accompaniments Vietnamese people enjoy with their coffee:

1. Banh Mi

Bánh mì và Cà phê - Nét đẹp riêng của ẩm thực Việt - PHÒNG CHỜ THƯƠNG GIA

The savory and slightly spicy fillings of a bánh mì pair well with the strong, sometimes sweet, notes of Vietnamese coffee. Whether enjoyed in the morning or for a midday break, the crispy baguette contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich coffee.

2. Pastries and Sweet Cakes

Cách làm bánh tiêu bằng bột mì mềm ngon thơm lừng, ăn là ghiền

Sweet pastries, like bánh tiêu (Vietnamese hollow donuts), bánh bò (steamed rice cakes), or bánh flan (Vietnamese caramel flan), are popular with coffee. These sweet treats help balance the coffee’s bold flavors and create a pleasant flavor pairing, especially with stronger Robusta brews.

3. Sunflower Seeds

Tim Cook 'xin chào Việt Nam', uống cà phê trứng, cắn hạt hướng dương

Sunflower seeds are a traditional snack, often shared among friends over a leisurely cup of coffee. Cracking the seeds as you sip coffee is a slow, enjoyable process that makes the experience feel relaxed and social.

LATEST PHOTOS SETS