Thai iced coffee, also known as Oliang, is a popular drink in Thailand that has gained worldwide recognition for its rich flavor and refreshing taste. This coffee drink is made with a combination of strong brewed coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and ice, creating a perfect blend of flavors that is both energizing and delicious. In this article, we will explore the history of Thai iced coffee, its cultural significance, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect Oliang at home.
A Brief History of Thai Iced Coffee
Thai iced coffee has a long history that dates back to the 19th century when coffee was first introduced to Thailand by European traders. At that time, coffee was a luxury item that only the wealthy could afford. However, as trade and commerce increased, coffee became more widely available, and the locals began to experiment with different brewing methods.
The traditional Thai coffee, known as Oliang, was born out of this experimentation. Oliang is a strong, rich coffee made from a combination of coffee beans, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk. The coffee is brewed in a traditional metal filter called a “tung tom kah fe,” which is similar to a Vietnamese coffee filter.
The Cultural Significance of Thai Iced Coffee
Thai iced coffee is an integral part of Thai culture and is often served at social gatherings, markets, and street food stalls. In Thailand, coffee is not just a drink; it’s a way of life. The traditional coffee shops, known as “kah fe,” are an essential part of the community, where people gather to socialize, conduct business, and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Thai iced coffee is also a popular drink among tourists, who are drawn to its unique flavor and refreshing taste. In recent years, Thai iced coffee has gained popularity worldwide, with many coffee shops and cafes serving their own version of Oliang.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make Thai iced coffee at home, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 2 tablespoons of strong brewed coffee
- 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
- 1 cup of ice
- 1/2 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
- A traditional metal filter (tung tom kah fe) or a Vietnamese coffee filter
- A coffee grinder or a rolling pin to crush the coffee beans
- A spoon and a glass
Choosing the Right Coffee Beans
The type of coffee beans used to make Thai iced coffee is crucial to its flavor and aroma. Traditionally, Thai coffee is made from Robusta beans, which are known for their strong and bitter flavor. However, you can also use Arabica beans, which have a milder flavor.
When choosing coffee beans, look for beans that are freshly roasted and have a medium to dark roast level. You can also experiment with different roast levels to find the perfect flavor for your Oliang.
Grinding the Coffee Beans
To grind the coffee beans, you can use a coffee grinder or a rolling pin. If you’re using a coffee grinder, grind the beans to a medium-coarse grind. If you’re using a rolling pin, place the beans in a plastic bag and crush them with the rolling pin until they reach the desired grind.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Thai Iced Coffee
Making Thai iced coffee is a simple process that requires some patience and practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Oliang:
Step 1: Brew the Coffee
To brew the coffee, place the ground coffee beans in the traditional metal filter or a Vietnamese coffee filter. Pour hot water over the coffee beans and let it drip through the filter. The coffee should be strong and concentrated, with a thick, creamy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweetened Condensed Milk
To prepare the sweetened condensed milk, open a can of sweetened condensed milk and scoop out 1 tablespoon. You can also make your own sweetened condensed milk by heating 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar until the sugar dissolves.
Step 3: Assemble the Thai Iced Coffee
To assemble the Thai iced coffee, fill a glass with ice and pour the brewed coffee over the ice. Add 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk and stir well. You can also add sugar to taste, but traditionally, Thai iced coffee is served with sweetened condensed milk only.
Step 4: Add Milk and Vanilla Extract (Optional)
To add milk and vanilla extract, pour 1/2 cup of milk over the coffee and stir well. You can also add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to give the coffee a creamy and sweet flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
To serve and enjoy your Thai iced coffee, pour the coffee into a glass filled with ice and serve immediately. You can also garnish the coffee with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder to give it a unique flavor and aroma.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the perfect Thai iced coffee:
- Use high-quality coffee beans to ensure a rich and flavorful coffee.
- Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your taste. Some people prefer a stronger coffee flavor, while others prefer a sweeter flavor.
- Experiment with different types of milk, such as coconut milk or almond milk, to give the coffee a unique flavor and texture.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder to give the coffee a unique flavor and aroma.
- Serve the coffee in a tall glass with a straw to make it easier to drink.
Conclusion
Thai iced coffee is a delicious and refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, it’s no wonder why Oliang has become a popular drink worldwide. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make the perfect Thai iced coffee at home and enjoy it whenever you want. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a new drink to try, Thai iced coffee is definitely worth a try.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, making Thai iced coffee is a simple process that requires some patience and practice. By using high-quality coffee beans, sweetened condensed milk, and ice, you can create a delicious and refreshing drink that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a new drink to try, Thai iced coffee is definitely worth a try. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the rich flavor and creamy texture of Oliang for yourself.
What is Oliang, and how does it differ from other types of coffee?
Oliang, also known as Thai iced coffee, is a popular coffee drink that originated in Thailand. It is made with a strong brew of coffee, sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, and served over ice. What sets Oliang apart from other types of coffee is its unique flavor profile, which is achieved by using a specific type of coffee bean and a traditional brewing method. The coffee beans used to make Oliang are typically a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, which are roasted to bring out a rich and full-bodied flavor.
The traditional brewing method used to make Oliang involves using a metal filter called a “tung tom kah fe,” which is similar to a Vietnamese coffee filter. This filter allows the coffee grounds to steep in hot water, resulting in a strong and concentrated brew. The brew is then mixed with sugar, condensed milk, and ice to create a creamy and refreshing coffee drink that is perfect for hot days.
What type of coffee beans should I use to make Oliang?
To make authentic Oliang, you will need to use a blend of Arabica and Robusta coffee beans. Arabica beans provide a rich and full-bodied flavor, while Robusta beans add a bold and slightly bitter taste. You can use a pre-mixed blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, or you can experiment with different ratios of each bean to create your own unique flavor profile. Look for beans that have been roasted to a medium or dark level, as this will bring out the best flavor in your Oliang.
If you can’t find a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, you can also use a single type of bean as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the flavor of your Oliang may not be as authentic. Arabica beans will produce a milder flavor, while Robusta beans will produce a bolder flavor. Experiment with different types of beans to find the flavor that you enjoy the most.
How do I brew the coffee for Oliang?
To brew the coffee for Oliang, you will need to use a metal filter called a “tung tom kah fe.” This filter is similar to a Vietnamese coffee filter and allows the coffee grounds to steep in hot water, resulting in a strong and concentrated brew. To use the filter, simply add coffee grounds to the filter and pour hot water over them. Allow the coffee to steep for a few minutes, then remove the filter and discard the grounds.
If you don’t have a tung tom kah fe filter, you can use a French drip filter or a pour-over filter as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the flavor of your Oliang may not be as authentic. The tung tom kah fe filter is designed specifically for brewing Oliang, and it produces a unique flavor that is difficult to replicate with other types of filters.
How much sugar and condensed milk should I add to my Oliang?
The amount of sugar and condensed milk you add to your Oliang is a matter of personal preference. Traditionally, Oliang is made with a generous amount of sugar and condensed milk, which gives the drink a sweet and creamy flavor. A good starting point is to add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of condensed milk to your Oliang. You can adjust the amount to taste, adding more sugar and condensed milk if you prefer your Oliang sweeter and creamier.
It’s also worth noting that you can use other types of milk instead of condensed milk, such as whole milk or half-and-half. However, condensed milk is traditional in Oliang, and it provides a unique flavor and texture that is difficult to replicate with other types of milk. Experiment with different types of milk to find the flavor that you enjoy the most.
Can I make Oliang with cold brew coffee?
While it is possible to make Oliang with cold brew coffee, it is not traditional. Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarse-ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period of time, usually 12-24 hours. This produces a smooth and low-acidity coffee that is perfect for hot summer days. However, cold brew coffee lacks the rich and full-bodied flavor that is characteristic of traditional Oliang.
If you want to make Oliang with cold brew coffee, you can use a cold brew coffee concentrate as a substitute for the traditional brewed coffee. Simply mix the cold brew coffee with sugar, condensed milk, and ice to create a creamy and refreshing coffee drink. Keep in mind that the flavor will be different from traditional Oliang, but it can still be a delicious and unique variation.
How do I serve Oliang?
Oliang is traditionally served over ice in a tall glass. To serve Oliang, simply fill a glass with ice and pour the brewed coffee over the ice. Add sugar and condensed milk to taste, then stir well to combine. You can also garnish the Oliang with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate syrup, if desired.
Oliang is a popular drink in Thailand, where it is often served at street stalls and cafes. It is typically served in a tall glass with a straw, which makes it easy to drink on the go. You can also serve Oliang at home, either as a refreshing pick-me-up or as a unique dessert drink. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to find the way you enjoy Oliang the most.
Can I make Oliang ahead of time?
While it is possible to make Oliang ahead of time, it is best served fresh. The brewed coffee can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the Oliang is best assembled just before serving, as the ice will melt and the flavors will become watered down if it is left to sit for too long.
If you want to make Oliang ahead of time, you can brew the coffee and store it in the refrigerator. Then, just before serving, fill a glass with ice and pour the brewed coffee over the ice. Add sugar and condensed milk to taste, then stir well to combine. This will ensure that your Oliang is fresh and flavorful, even if you make it ahead of time.