Bac Xiu vs Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee – Key Differences and Authentic Recipes

Bac Xiu vs Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee – Key Differences and Authentic Recipes

Vietnam is famous for its sweet, strong coffee culture, and two drinks often cause confusion: Bạc xỉu and cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced milk coffee). While they share ingredients, their ratios and flavor profiles are quite different.

1. What is Bạc Xỉu?

  • Origin: Popularized in Saigon in the mid-20th century.

  • Ratio: Much more milk than coffee (about 3:1 or even 4:1).

  • Taste: Creamy, sweet, and milder in caffeine.

  • Best For: Those who want a coffee-flavored milk drink rather than a strong brew.

2. What is Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)?

  • Ratio: Strong phin-brewed coffee to sweetened condensed milk at around 2:1.

  • Taste: Bold, bittersweet, and robust, especially with robusta beans.

  • Best For: Coffee lovers who want intensity balanced by sweetness.

3. How to Brew Bạc Xỉu (Authentic Style)

Ingredients:

  • 20–25 ml strong phin-brewed coffee

  • 60–80 ml hot milk (whole milk or evaporated milk)

  • 20–25 ml sweetened condensed milk

Steps:

  1. Brew coffee using a phin filter.

  2. Warm the milk and mix with condensed milk in a tall glass.

  3. Add the coffee on top and stir before serving over ice.

4. How to Brew Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee

Ingredients:

  • 25 g medium-coarse ground robusta coffee

  • 40–50 ml sweetened condensed milk

  • 120 ml hot water

Steps:

  1. Place condensed milk in a glass.

  2. Brew coffee directly over it using a phin.

  3. Stir well, pour over ice, and serve immediately.

5. Key Differences Summary

  • Bạc Xỉu: Milk-forward, light coffee flavor, more of a dessert drink.

  • Cà Phê Sữa Đá: Coffee-forward, bold and strong, balanced with sweetness.

Conclusion:Whether you choose the milky comfort of Bạc xỉu or the bold punch of cà phê sữa đá, both are delicious ways to enjoy Vietnam’s unique coffee culture.👉 Shop Vietnamese phin filters and coffee on Amazon →Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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