Experience the Rich Coffee Heritage of Vietnam
Vietnam, a country of over 98 million inhabitants, boasts a rich and vibrant coffee tradition. Just a 12-hour flight from Schiphol, the Netherlands, you'll find yourself in a land where social life thrives in the open air amidst stunning landscapes.
Whether you're visiting the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City or the historic charm of Hanoi, or perhaps venturing off the beaten path in search of a more authentic experience, you'll be embraced by a coffee culture as warm and welcoming as the locals themselves. Despite limited English language skills, the genuine friendliness of the Vietnamese people, combined with hand gestures, Google Translate and a little persistence, will make your journey truly memorable and enriching.
Experience the Rich Coffee Heritage of Vietnam
Robusta Coffee: A Staple of Vietnamese Tradition
In the West, Robusta coffee beans are typically perceived as inferior—too acidic, bitter and of low quality. This common misconception stems from their historically low reputation and their association with cheaper coffee blends.
However, just as beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so too is the taste of coffee. My own perception changed drastically when I first experienced the rich aroma and bold flavour of a well-prepared cup of Robusta coffee. I was truly amazed!
Vietnam has embraced Robusta beans largely due to their resilience and suitability for the local climate. Robusta plants are more robust against pests and diseases, and they thrive in the warmer, lower-elevation conditions of Vietnam, where Arabica plants struggle to survive and produce high yields.
Sweet and creamy, with a huge kick of intense coffee flavour
Vietnamese coffee is uniquely characterised by its dark roast coffee, dripped through a traditional metal filter, known as a ‘Phin’, and mixed with condensed milk. Often, this coffee is served over a generous amount of crushed ice, making it a refreshing treat—perfect for the humid Vietnamese climate. While iced Vietnamese coffee is a popular staple, you can also enjoy it hot, although this is far less common compared to coffee habits in the West.
The Vietnamese tend to prefer hot coffee in the morning to get the day going. But during the day, iced coffee tends to be the preferred choice.
Another local delicacy is Vietnamese egg coffee, or Cà phê trứng, a rich and creamy beverage made by whipping egg yolks with sugar and condensed milk, and then mixing it with strong coffee. This creates a beverage with a texture similar to a dessert, combining the bold flavours of coffee with the smooth, sweet richness of the egg mixture.