Vietnamese MannaBrew (Mesquite "Coffee")

Vietnamese coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá) is known for its rich, bold flavor, balanced by the creamy sweetness of condensed milk. This version swaps traditional coffee for MannaBrew, a caffeine-free, naturally sweet alternative made from mesquite pods. The result is a smooth, nutty, and caramel-like drink that stays true to the essence of Vietnamese coffee.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons MannaBrew grounds
• 120ml (½ cup) hot water (just below boiling)
• 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes (for iced version)

Equipment:

• Vietnamese phin filter (or French press for an alternative method)
• Glass or cup

Instructions:

Brew the MannaBrew
Using a Phin Filter:

• Add MannaBrew grounds to the phin filter.
• Place the metal press on top and gently press down.
• Pour a small amount of hot water (about 30ml) over the grounds and let them "bloom" for 30 seconds.
• Slowly pour in the remaining hot water and cover. Let it drip for 3–5 minutes.

Alternative (French Press Method):

• • Add MannaBrew grounds to a French press.
  • Pour in hot water, stir gently, and steep for 4–5 minutes.
  • Press down the plunger and pour into a glass.

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Sweeten with Condensed Milk

• • • In a glass or cup, add sweetened condensed milk.
    • Pour the freshly brewed MannaBrew over it.
    • Stir well to combine.

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Serve Hot or Iced

• • • For Hot Vietnamese MannaBrew: Enjoy as is!
    • For Iced Vietnamese MannaBrew:
      • Fill a glass with ice cubes.
      • Pour the sweetened MannaBrew over the ice.
      • Stir and enjoy!