Egg Coffee: Coffee Specialty From Vietnam

Egg Coffee, a special coffee delicacy from Vietnam, is gaining worldwide popularity. This unique coffee variant combines the flavors of strong coffee with the creaminess of a whipped egg mixture. Whether you’re a coffee lover looking to discover new flavors or simply curious about extraordinary coffee specialties, Egg Coffee offers an unparalleled taste experience. In this article, you will learn all about the preparation and various variations of this special coffee creation.

Origin and History of Egg Coffee

Egg Coffee, also known as Cà phê trứng, originated in Vietnam, specifically in Hanoi. The creation of this unique coffee variant dates back to the 1940s when Vietnamese bartender Nguyen Van Giang worked at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel. Due to a milk shortage during the Vietnam War, he experimented with eggs as a substitute for milk to achieve a creamy consistency in coffee. Thus, Egg Coffee was born, which is now a popular drink among locals and tourists alike.

The history is closely linked with Vietnamese culture and tradition. During the difficult times of war and scarcity, people demonstrated great ingenuity and creativity. Nguyen Van Giang later opened his own café, Giang Café, which is still considered one of the best places for Egg Coffee. The recipe has been passed down and preserved over generations, ensuring that the original taste remains intact.

Over the years, Egg Coffee has spread not only in Vietnam but also worldwide. Cafés in cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Seoul, and even in Western metropolises like New York and Paris now offer their own variations of this extraordinary coffee. Each region brings its own touch, making this coffee specialty a versatile and globally appreciated beverage.

The Ingredients for the Perfect Egg Coffee

Egg Coffee is a true delicacy created by the perfect combination of simple ingredients. The secret to this drink lies in the quality and freshness of the components used. To prepare this coffee, the following ingredients are required:

• Coffee: High-quality Vietnamese Robusta coffee is the first choice for Egg Coffee. Robusta coffee has a strong, intense flavor and a natural bitterness that pairs well with the sweetness of the egg mixture. For those who prefer less caffeine and a less bitter-tasting coffee, Arabica coffee is a good alternative.
• Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential to achieve the creamy texture of Egg Coffee. Only the egg yolk is used, which should be carefully separated from the egg white to ensure no egg white gets into the finished coffee.
• Condensed Milk: Sweetened condensed milk adds extra sweetness and creaminess to the drink. It also serves as an important flavor carrier, balancing the bitterness of the coffee.
• Sugar: A little sugar can be added to make the egg mixture even sweeter if desired. However, many traditional recipes use only the sweetness of the condensed milk.
• Hot Water: Hot water is needed to brew the coffee. The optimal temperature is around 90-95°C to extract the best flavors from the coffee grounds.

The right combination of these ingredients ensures a harmonious taste experience. The intensity of the coffee, the creaminess of the egg yolk, and the sweetness of the condensed milk together create an incomparable delight.

Preparation of Egg Coffee: Step-by-Step Guide

The preparation of Egg Coffee may seem complicated at first glance, but with the right guide, it is easy to master. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to making this delicious coffee at home:

1. Brewing the Coffee: Start by brewing a cup of strong Vietnamese Robusta coffee. Use about 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds and 120 ml of hot water. A Vietnamese Phin filter is ideal, but a French Press, a Chemex, or similar hand filters are also suitable.
2. Preparing the Egg Yolk: Separate the yolk from a fresh egg. Make sure no egg white remains in the yolk, as this could affect the consistency.
3. Whipping the Egg Yolk: Place the egg yolk in a bowl and add 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk and optionally a teaspoon of sugar. Whisk the mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until it reaches a thick, frothy consistency. This can take about 5-7 minutes. For a warm variant, you can place the container in a hot water bath.
4. Combining: Pour the freshly brewed coffee into a cup. Gently spoon the frothy egg yolk mixture onto the coffee, creating a thick, creamy layer. The egg foam layer should float on top of the coffee and not sink.
5. Serving and Enjoying: Egg Coffee is traditionally served hot. You can enjoy it as is or gently stir to mix the layers.

Variations from Different Countries

Egg Coffee has not only originated in Vietnam but also inspired various variations worldwide. Each region has developed its own interpretation of this unique coffee, adding a special touch to the traditional recipe. Here are some interesting Egg Coffee variations from different countries:

1. Vietnamese Egg Coffee

The classic version originates from Vietnam. Here, the coffee is combined with egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk to create a thick, creamy layer that floats on the coffee. This variation is particularly popular in Hanoi and is often served with a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon.

2. Swedish Egg Coffee

Although it is called “Swedish Egg Coffee,” this variation comes from America. Here, a whole raw egg is added to the coffee and stirred well before brewing. The egg binds the coffee grounds and gives the drink a smooth texture and mild flavor. This method is often used for outdoor activities such as camping.

3. Indonesian Kopi Telur

In Indonesia, there is a similar variation called Kopi Telur, which is particularly popular in Sumatra. Here, the coffee is mixed with egg yolk and honey, giving it a natural sweetness and thick, creamy consistency. This version is often consumed as an energetic morning drink.

As strange as it may sound to consume coffee with egg, this drink seems to be quite widespread. Each region brings its own culinary traditions and preferences, making this coffee a globally appreciated delight.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

What is Egg Coffee?

Egg Coffee, or Cà phê trứng, is a Vietnamese coffee specialty made from strong coffee, egg yolk, and sweetened condensed milk. The mixture creates a thick, creamy layer on the coffee and offers a unique taste experience.

Where does Egg Coffee come from?

It originated in Hanoi, Vietnam. It was created in the 1940s by Nguyen Van Giang during a milk shortage when he used egg yolk as a substitute for milk to achieve a creamy consistency in coffee.

What ingredients are needed for Egg Coffee?

High-quality Vietnamese Robusta coffee, fresh egg yolk, sweetened condensed milk, and optionally sugar are required. These ingredients together provide the characteristic taste and creamy texture.

How to prepare Egg Coffee?

It is prepared by first brewing strong coffee. Then, the egg yolk is whipped with sweetened condensed milk and sugar until frothy. The frothy egg yolk mixture is gently spooned onto the hot coffee, creating a thick, creamy layer.

Sources

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egg_coffee