Thai Iced Coffee

Name: Thai Iced Coffee
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 3 tbsp Thai coffee; 300 ml hot water; 3 tbsp condensed milk; as needed ice; 1 pinch salt

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 vegetarian

Thai Iced Coffee, or 'Oliang', originates from the bustling street cafés of Thailand, where the art of balancing bold coffee with creamy sweetness is mastered. This home version captures that essence, offering a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Traditionally enjoyed in the afternoon as a pick-me-up, this chilled beverage is an integral part of the Thai coffee culture.

The drink should unfold with a rich, robust coffee flavor, tempered by the silky sweetness of condensed milk. A hint of salt enhances its depth, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Served over ice, it delivers a refreshing coolness that contrasts delightfully with the tropical warmth. Perfect for leisurely sipping, it invites a moment of relaxation and indulgence.

Ingredients

3 tbspThai coffee
300 mlhot water
3 tbspcondensed milk
as neededice
1 pinchsalt

Method

Begin by brewing the coffee. Place 3 tablespoons of Thai coffee into a coffee filter or a fine mesh strainer. Pour 300 ml of hot water over the coffee grounds slowly, allowing the water to fully saturate the coffee. The brewed coffee should be dark and aromatic, with a rich, inviting scent.
Once the coffee has brewed, transfer it to a heatproof container and let it cool to room temperature. If you prefer your Thai Iced Coffee extra chilled, place the container in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until it is cold to the touch.
While the coffee is cooling, prepare the serving glasses. Fill each glass with ice, leaving about an inch of space at the top to accommodate the coffee and milk mixture.
Once the coffee is chilled, pour it over the ice in the prepared glasses. Measure carefully to ensure each glass receives an equal amount of coffee, maintaining the traditional balance of flavors.
Add 3 tablespoons of condensed milk to each glass. Stir gently with a spoon to combine, ensuring the condensed milk is fully integrated into the coffee. The mixture should have a creamy consistency and a light caramel color.
Add a pinch of salt to each glass. This step enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors, creating a more complex taste profile. Stir gently to incorporate the salt without losing the aroma.
Serve the Thai Iced Coffee immediately in the traditional glassware. The drink should be enjoyed while cold, with the contrasting flavors of the rich coffee and sweet milk coming through with each sip.