When people compare Vietnamese coffee and Thai coffee, they are usually referring to iced variations. But are they the same, and what is the difference? Continue reading to learn all about the differences between these two similar but also different coffees.
💡 Discover what makes Vietnamese coffee unique to other brews.
Vietnamese coffee vs. Thai coffee – A quick overview of differences
The main differences between Vietnamese and Thai coffee are in the brewing methods, ingredients, and sometimes the coffee beans.
While both Vietnamese and Thai coffee share similarities, the choice between these two brews depends on your preference for a bold and robust Vietnamese coffee or a smoother and aromatic experience with Thai coffee.
What is Vietnamese coffee?
Vietnamese coffee has a strong and bold flavor. The key ingredient is Robusta coffee beans, which are known for their high caffeine content and intense taste.
Vietnamese coffee is brewed using a phin filter, a small stainless steel device with a perforated base that fits on top of a cup or glass. The phin filter allows for a slow and steady drip brewing process.
What type of Vietnamese coffee do people usually compare to Thai coffee?
When people compare Vietnamese and Thai coffee, they are usually referring to iced coffee. Both Vietnamese and Thai coffee cultures have a strong affinity for iced coffee, and each country has its own unique take on this refreshing beverage.
Vietnamese coffee is more popular worldwide than Thai coffee. This may be because of the variety of Vietnamese coffee recipes. When it comes to Thai coffee, people usually think of the iced version, even if there are other types. It is important to note that Thai tea is actually a much more popular beverage worldwide than coffee.
Other types of Vietnamese coffee
Vietnamese coffee is a versatile brew that has many interesting twists, from plain black and iced recipes to egg and avocado variations. If you want to explore these recipes, make sure to check out Vietnamese coffee types.
What is Thai coffee?
Thai coffee is known for its unique flavor profile, which combines the richness of coffee with the sweetness of condensed milk, evaporated milk, and sometimes even the fragrant touch of spices.
Traditionally, Thai coffee is made using a cloth bag. This method allows for a slow and controlled extraction process.
Side-by-side: Thai iced coffee vs Vietnamese coffee
Let’s take a detailed look at the difference between Thai iced coffee and Vietnamese iced coffee.
Coffee beans
Vietnamese coffee typically uses Robusta beans, which are known for their high caffeine content and bold taste. These beans provide a strong and intense flavor that is characteristic of Vietnamese coffee.
On the other hand, Thai coffee also uses Robusta beans, but traditionally it has Robusta coffee, brown sugar, soya beans, cardamom, rice, and even corn.
Brewing
Vietnamese coffee is typically made using a traditional stainless steel phin filter, which allows for a slow drip brewing process.
Thai coffee is traditionally brewed using a cloth bag or a sock-like filter. This method produces a smoother and lighter coffee, perfect for those who prefer a milder taste.
Ingredients
Both Vietnamese and Thai coffee commonly include the use of sweet condensed milk, which adds a creamy and sweet element to the brew. However, Thai coffee often contains evaporated milk.
💡 New to these brews? Check out how Vietnamese coffee is different from regular coffee.
Which is stronger, Thai or Vietnamese coffee?
Vietnamese iced coffee is stronger, especially if you don’t use Robusta coffee beans for Thai coffee.
In addition, evaporated milk and additional spices in Thai coffee will provide you with a smoother taste and mask the coffee’s strength.
💡 Make sure to check out how strong Vietnamese coffee is.
Which one is better – Vietnamese coffee or Thai coffee?
If you prefer a strong taste of coffee that is slightly sweetened, then go with Vietnamese coffee. However, if you prefer a mild taste and want to play with flavors, then Thai coffee would be better for you.
My journey through renowned bars and coffee shops over five years, as a barista, coffee aficionado, and former bartender, has honed my pursuit for the perfect cup. My passion for coffee isn’t just about the brew—it’s about sharing the knowledge and insights I’ve gleaned along the way.
