Difference Between Vietnamese Coffee And Regular Coffee

One is a classic go-to, while the other is becoming more and more popular thanks to social media. Continue reading to see if it is worth trying Vietnamese coffee and how it is different from regular coffee.  

💡 Check out how Vietnamese coffee is compared to other coffee types. 

What are the main differences between Vietnamese coffee and regular coffee?

The main differences between Vietnamese coffee and regular coffee are:

• Coffee beans: Vietnamese coffee is traditionally prepared with Robusta coffee beans, while regular coffee, also known as American coffee, uses Arabica coffee beans or bland of both types.
• Brewing: Regular coffee is made with drip coffee makers, French press, pour-over, AeroPress, etc.  While for Vietnamese coffee, you will traditionally use a phin filter that goes on the top of the glass or cup. 
• Strength: Vietnamese coffee has more caffeine than regular coffee per oz of liquid. 
• Taste: Vietnamese coffee has a much more robust taste than regular coffee because of Robusta coffee beans. 

Is Vietnamese coffee stronger than regular coffee? 

Yes, Vietnamese coffee is stronger than regular coffee. On average, a standard cup of regular coffee (8 ounces) contains around 90 milligrams of caffeine. Vietnamese coffee has approximately 100 milligrams of caffeine per serving, which is 4 ounces. 

This means that per ounce of coffee, Vietnamese coffee has double more caffeine than regular coffee. 

💡 Read a detailed analysis of the strength comparison between Vietnamese and regular coffee.

Is Vietnamese coffee the strongest?

No. Espresso has more caffeine per liquid ounce than Vietnamese coffee. However, Vietnamese coffee is one of the strongest brews when it comes to caffeine kick. Here, you can explore more about the strength comparison of Vietnamese-style coffee and espresso. 

What is the difference in coffee beans?

When it comes to coffee, the type of beans used can greatly impact the taste, aroma, and overall experience of your brew. Let’s take a closer look at the main types of coffee beans and how they differ from each other.

• Arabica beans: Arabica beans are often considered the gold standard in the coffee world. They are known for their superior quality, delicate flavors, and pleasant acidity. Arabica beans are grown at higher altitudes, which allows them to develop complex flavors and a smooth, well-balanced taste. They are typically more expensive due to their limited supply and higher production costs.

• Robusta beans: Robusta beans are known for their robust and bold flavor profile. They have a higher caffeine content and a more bitter taste compared to Arabica beans. Robusta beans are often used in espresso blends to provide a strong and intense flavor. They are also more resistant to diseases and pests, making them easier to cultivate. However, they are generally considered to be of lower quality compared to Arabica beans.

Can you make Vietnamese coffee with Arabica beans?

While traditional Vietnamese coffee is made using Robusta beans, it is possible to make Vietnamese-style coffee using Arabica beans as well. However, it’s important to note that the flavor profile and overall experience may differ from the authentic Vietnamese coffee taste.

💡 Learn what is the difference between Cafe Bombon and Vietnamese coffee – two similar but unique brews. 

Brewing method differences

The phin filter is the traditional brewing method used in Vietnam to make coffee. It consists of a small metal filter that sits on top of a cup or glass. 

A drip coffee maker is a popular brewing method used in households and cafes around the world. It involves pouring hot water over ground coffee placed in a paper or reusable filter. 

• Both brewing methods use medium grind size. 
• The phin filter takes a longer time to brew coffee. 
• Brewing coffee with a drip coffee maker is faster, but coffee has a milder flavor profile.

Final thoughts

The difference between Vietnamese coffee and regular coffee is significant. Vietnamese-style coffee is stronger and has a more robust taste. If you have never tried, be aware of the caffeine kick.