Lao Iced Coffee (Kafe Yen with Condensed Milk)
Local name: ກາເຟເຢັນ
In short: Strong dark-roast coffee brewed in a cloth filter or press, poured over sweetened condensed milk and ice for a creamy, bittersweet glass. It takes about 15 min in total and makes 2 servings.
- Prep
- 5 min
- Cook
- 10 min
- Total
- 15 min
- Servings
- 2
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 130 kcal
Laos grows excellent coffee on the Bolaven Plateau in the south, and Lao people drink it strong, dark and sweet. Kafe yen is the iced version: coffee is brewed through a cloth filter, then poured over a layer of sweetened condensed milk and a glass full of ice. The coffee and milk stay in layers until you stir. It is served at street stalls and cafes at all hours, often next to a baguette sandwich.
Instructions
- Warm a cloth coffee filter, a French press or a jug with a splash of hot water, then discard the water.
- Add the ground coffee, then pour in the hot water in two stages, wetting all the grounds. Stir once and steep for 5 minutes.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of condensed milk into the bottom of each tall glass.
- Fill the glasses with ice. Press or strain the coffee, then pour it slowly over the ice so it layers on top of the milk.
- Stir well before drinking. For a hot cup, skip the ice and pour the coffee straight into cups over the milk.
Tips
- Use a dark roast and brew it strong, since the ice and milk dilute it. Robusta or a robusta blend gives the thick, bold taste typical of Lao coffee.
- Add a splash of evaporated milk on top for a creamier drink, or use less condensed milk if you prefer it less sweet.
Questions and answers
What kind of coffee is grown in Laos?
Both arabica and robusta are grown, mainly on the Bolaven Plateau in the south. Lao coffee is usually roasted dark and brewed strong.
Can I make Lao coffee without a cloth filter?
Yes. A French press, moka pot or paper filter all work, as long as the coffee is strong. A cloth filter just gives a smoother, rounder cup.
How sweet is Lao coffee?
It is quite sweet, with about 2 tablespoons of condensed milk per glass. Reduce it to 1 tablespoon for a less sweet drink.
How long does it take to make Lao Iced Coffee (Kafe Yen with Condensed Milk)?
About 15 min in total: 5 min of preparation and 10 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Lao Iced Coffee (Kafe Yen with Condensed Milk)?
About 130 kcal per serving, with 3 g of protein, 22 g of carbohydrates and 3 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 130 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 22 g |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
