Vietnamese phin coffee isn’t just a drink — it’s a slow ritual, a cultural symbol, and a daily habit for millions. If you’ve ever walked the streets of Hanoi or Saigon in the early morning, you’ve probably seen locals slowly sipping coffee brewed from a small metal filter called a “phin.”

But how exactly do you brew coffee like a true Vietnamese local? Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide.

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What You’ll Need
• Vietnamese phin filter (available in most Asian markets or online)
• Ground coffee – medium to coarse grind (robusta or blend, ideally Vietnamese origin)
• Hot water (92°C–96°C / 198°F–205°F)
• Condensed milk (optional, for cà phê sữa)
• Glass or cup

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the phin and glass

Pour a small amount of hot water through the phin and into the glass. Discard the water. This step warms everything up and improves flavor extraction.

2. Add coffee to the phin

Use 2–3 tablespoons (about 20–25g) of ground coffee. Shake gently to level.

3. Press with the gravity insert

Place the metal press (insert) gently on top of the coffee. Do not tamp too hard — just enough pressure to compact the grounds lightly.

4. Bloom the coffee

Add 20ml of hot water first. Wait 30 seconds to let the coffee “bloom.” This allows gases to escape and prepares the coffee for better extraction.

5. Fill with hot water

Pour hot water up to the top of the filter (about 80–100ml). Cover with the lid and wait.

6. Drip and wait

The coffee will begin to drip slowly — this should take 4–5 minutes. A slower drip = richer flavor.

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Optional: Make It Vietnamese Style
• Black (Cà phê đen): Serve as is, or add ice for cà phê đen đá.
• With condensed milk (Cà phê sữa): Add 1–2 tablespoons of condensed milk to the bottom of the glass before brewing. Stir well after the drip finishes.

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Tips from the Locals
• Robusta beans are the backbone of traditional Vietnamese coffee — bold, intense, and with low acidity.
• Don’t rush. Phin coffee is about slowing down.
• Best enjoyed with morning sun and street-side conversations.

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Final Thoughts

Brewing phin coffee isn’t just about caffeine — it’s about connection, culture, and calm. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or perfecting your technique, making coffee this way brings a little piece of Vietnam into your daily ritual.

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