Salted Coffee: Is It Just Coffee Mixed with Salt?
- 02 Oct, 25
- Admin
17 Jul, 2025 64
What Is Salt Coffee? Why Has It Become So Popular in the Past Year?Salt coffee – a unique beverage combining the bitterness of coffee, the sweetness of milk, and a subtle hint of saltiness – has emerged as a culinary sensation, particularly over the past year. Originating from the ancient city of Huế, Vietnam, salt coffee is not just a drink but a symbol of creativity in Vietnamese coffee culture. This article will dive into what salt coffee is, its origins, the ingredients that create its distinctive flavor, how people describe its taste, what international tourists say about it, and why it has gained such popularity recently. Finally, we’ll introduce the instant salt coffee product by UFO Coffee. (800-1000 words)The Origin of Salt Coffee in Huế Salt coffee is considered a specialty of Huế, first created over a decade ago at a garden café on Nguyễn Lương Bằng Street in Huế. According to the café owners, the idea for salt coffee stemmed from a romantic short story titled “Salt Coffee,” which tells of a young man who drank coffee with salt to evoke memories of his coastal hometown. Inspired by this tale, Trần Nguyễn Hữu Phong and Hồ Thị Thanh Hương, owners of Cà Phê Muối (Salt Coffee Café), experimented and perfected the recipe, creating a drink that blends salty, sweet, and bitter flavors in perfect harmony. However, the concept of adding salt to coffee isn’t exclusive to Huế. Historical records suggest that the practice has existed globally, particularly in coastal regions. Sailors and fishermen, lacking fresh water during long voyages, used seawater to brew coffee, accidentally discovering a unique flavor. In 1906, the American publication Interstate Druggist noted that Dr. William C. Alpers added salt to coffee to enhance its taste, boosting sales for his company. Nevertheless, Huế’s salt coffee has carved out its own identity, becoming a cultural icon of the city. Ingredients of Salt Coffee Salt coffee from Huế is made with simple ingredients, but its magic lies in the perfect balance of flavors. The key components include: Pure coffee: Robusta or Arabica beans, freshly roasted and ground, brewed using a traditional Vietnamese phin filter to preserve its bold flavor. The quality of the coffee is crucial, with beans ideally roasted within 7-10 days for maximum freshness. Condensed milk: Adds a creamy sweetness that complements the coffee’s bitterness. Whipping cream or fermented milk: Creates a smooth, rich texture, topped with a frothy layer that defines Huế’s salt coffee. Refined or pink salt: The “soul” of the drink, a pinch of salt (3-5g per serving, depending on taste) adds a subtle salty note, balancing the bitterness and enhancing the sweetness. Boiling water: Used to brew the coffee through a phin filter at 90-95°C to avoid scorching the grounds. The preparation follows a traditional method: rinse the phin with hot water, add ground coffee, tamp it down, and pour 25ml of boiling water to bloom the coffee, followed by 50ml more to drip slowly. Meanwhile, mix salt with whipping cream, whip it to a frothy consistency, then combine it with condensed milk and pour the brewed coffee over the mixture. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon may be added for extra flavor and visual appeal. How People Describe the Taste of Salt Coffee The flavor of salt coffee is a harmonious blend of three distinct notes: bitter, sweet, and salty. Upon the first sip, a gentle saltiness touches the tongue, followed by the creamy sweetness of milk, and concluding with the lingering bitterness of coffee. This creates a rich, multi-layered taste experience. Many describe it as “familiar yet surprising,” “bold but smooth,” and “addictive from the first sip.” Experts explain that salt (sodium chloride) reduces the bitterness caused by chlorogenic acids in coffee while amplifying sweetness and subtle acidity through taste bud stimulation. This makes salt coffee an ideal choice for those who want a flavorful coffee without excessive sugar, especially for people monitoring calorie intake or managing diabetes. However, some note that improper preparation can result in an overly salty taste, which may overpower the drink if not balanced carefully. What International Tourists Say About Huế’s Salt Coffee Salt coffee has not only won over local palates but also captivated international tourists. According to a 2024 CNN Travel article, salt coffee has become a trending culinary topic, especially on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Foreign visitors often describe it as “an unexpected but perfect combination” or “a taste of love – salty, sweet, and bitter.” Many have been inspired to recreate salt coffee at home, drawing from their experiences in Huế. The original Cà Phê Muối at 10 Nguyễn Lương Bằng Street welcomes hundreds of international guests daily. Tourists praise the traditional phin brewing method, which allows them to watch coffee drip slowly while blending with the creamy salted foam. Visitors from Europe and the U.S. compare it to salted caramel drinks but note that it retains the distinct character of Vietnamese coffee. Some initially find the saltiness unfamiliar but are won over after a few sips, appreciating the nostalgic ambiance of Huế’s cozy cafés. Why Has Salt Coffee Become So Popular in the Past Year? In 2024, salt coffee skyrocketed in popularity both in Vietnam and globally, largely due to its viral presence on social media. Videos showcasing how to make salt coffee, reviews of Huế’s iconic cafés, and aesthetically pleasing shots of the frothy drink garnered millions of views. Its inclusion in the menu of major chains like Starbucks Vietnam (May 2024) further cemented its status as a must-try beverage. The trend of seeking novel culinary experiences has also propelled salt coffee into the spotlight, appealing to younger generations and tourists alike. Affordable pricing (15,000-30,000 VND per cup in Huế) and the ease of replicating it at home have made it accessible to a wide audience. Additionally, brands like Elys Coffee have begun exporting salt coffee to international markets, from Asia to Europe, elevating the global profile of Vietnamese coffee culture. UFO Coffee’s Instant Huế Salt Coffee To bring the authentic taste of Huế’s salt coffee to everyone, UFO Coffee has launched its instant Huế salt coffee, capturing the essence of this iconic drink in a convenient package. Made from 100% pure robusta coffee, blended with condensed milk, creamy foam, and a touch of refined salt, this product delivers the signature bitter-sweet-salty flavor of Huế’s specialty. Preparation is effortless: simply mix one packet of UFO Coffee’s instant salt coffee with 75ml of hot water (80-100°C), stir, and enjoy a café-quality drink at home. Perfect for busy lifestyles, it’s also an ideal gift to share Huế’s coffee culture with friends worldwide. UFO Coffee prioritizes high-quality ingredients, free from artificial flavors, ensuring a safe and healthy product. Experience the unique flavor of Huế with UFO Coffee’s instant salt coffee today!
View detail..16 Jul, 2025 42
Egg Coffee – Hanoi Autumn in a SipUFO Coffee’s Instant Hanoi Egg Coffee: A Taste of Vietnamese Tradition, Wherever You AreSome flavors go beyond taste — they speak to your soul.Egg coffee is one of those rare experiences.First created in Hanoi in 1946, Hanoi egg coffee was born out of creativity during hard times. When fresh milk was hard to find, a local barista whipped egg yolks with sugar to create a thick, creamy foam and poured it over strong Vietnamese coffee. What emerged was a drink unlike any other — rich, bold, silky smooth, with a gentle sweetness and a deep, comforting aroma.For generations, locals and travelers alike have gathered in cozy corners of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, sipping egg coffee under the golden leaves of autumn, surrounded by quiet streets and warm conversations. It’s more than just a drink — it’s a moment of stillness, a piece of history, and a symbol of Vietnamese resilience and creativity.At UFO Coffee, we believe every cup tells a story. And that story shouldn’t be tied to one place or time. That’s why we’ve carefully recreated this iconic drink in our Instant Hanoi Egg Coffee — preserving the soul of the original, but reimagined for today’s pace of life.One minute. One cup. One trip to Hanoi.You don’t need a barista’s skills or any special tools. With just hot water and one sachet of UFO’s instant egg coffee, you can enjoy the same creamy, bold experience — wherever you are.Each sip delivers a beautiful balance:The rich, golden foam of whipped egg yolkThe deep, aromatic body of Vietnamese coffeeA sweet, velvety finish that lingers — just like Hanoi’s autumn airWe’ve kept everything that matters: the taste, the warmth, the memory. What we’ve added is convenience — for busy mornings, quiet evenings, or anytime you need a moment of calm and connection.What is Hanoi Egg Coffee?If you’re new to it, you might ask: What is Hanoi egg coffee?It’s a traditional Vietnamese coffee drink made by topping hot, strong black coffee with a thick layer of whipped egg yolk and sugar. It’s creamy and rich on top, deep and bold beneath — a unique contrast that somehow feels perfectly harmonious. It’s not overly sweet, not too heavy — just smooth, satisfying, and soul-warming.And now, thanks to UFO Coffee, you can enjoy it instantly — no whisking, no waiting.Taste a Little Bit of Hanoi – Anytime, AnywhereWhether you’re thousands of miles from Vietnam or right at home, UFO Instant Hanoi Egg Coffee brings a little piece of Hanoi to your cup. It’s the flavor of tradition, reimagined for your everyday life — comforting, nostalgic, and unmistakably Vietnamese.UFO Coffee – inspired by Vietnam, crafted for your daily moments.Try our egg coffee today and rediscover what a cup of coffee can mean.
View detail..15 Jul, 2025 130
The Secret of Salt – The Key to a Smooth Aftertaste in Hue Salted CoffeeIn Vietnam’s vibrant coffee culture, Hue salted coffee is emerging as a standout. More than just a drink, it's an experience — a unique blend of bold Vietnamese coffee, creamy milk, and a hint of salt that transforms the entire flavor profile. But what truly sets it apart? The secret lies in the salt — and at UFO Coffee, it’s not just any salt.What is Salted Coffee?Salted coffee — especially Hue salted coffee — is a traditional Vietnamese beverage where a small amount of salt is added to coffee, often paired with sweetened milk or cream. It may sound unusual at first, but this unexpected twist does wonders for the flavor. Salt doesn’t overpower the coffee; instead, it balances bitterness, enhances natural sweetness, and brings out a surprisingly smooth finish.At UFO Coffee, Hue salted coffee is elevated to another level, thanks to a secret salt formula designed to bring out the best in every sip.How Salt Transforms the FlavorMany people wonder: “Why put salt in coffee?” The answer lies in salt’s powerful role as a flavor enhancer. When used correctly, salt:Reduces bitterness, making the coffee more approachable.Highlights the coffee’s natural sweetness, especially from high-quality Vietnamese beans.Adds creaminess, especially when paired with rich milk or cream.Extends the aftertaste, creating a long, smooth, and pleasant finish that lingers on the palate.The result is a balanced, full-bodied cup that’s neither too sweet nor too strong — just right.What Makes UFO’s Salt So Special?At UFO Coffee, the salt used in our Hue salted coffee is not a one-size-fits-all ingredient. It’s a carefully curated blend of traditional salts, each selected to enhance the depth and harmony of the drink. The combination includes:Natural sea salt from Central Vietnam, rich in minerals.Pink Himalayan salt, known for its soft, mild flavor.Refined salt, used to stabilize and balance the overall profile.This unique salt mix works like a symphony conductor, bringing together bold coffee, creamy textures, and gentle sweetness in perfect harmony.Crafting the Perfect Hue Salted CoffeeOur salted coffee begins with 100% pure Robusta beans sourced from Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Known for their bold character and high caffeine content, these beans create a strong foundation. The coffee is then blended with plant-based cream and sweetened milk, followed by a touch of our signature salt blend.The result? A drink that’s deeply satisfying, smooth in aftertaste, and truly distinctive in flavor — a flavor that captures the essence of Hue’s poetic, nostalgic spirit.Why Try UFO Hue Salted Coffee?Signature salt formula, unlike anything else on the market.Authentic Vietnamese coffee, roasted and brewed with care.Balanced and accessible, even for those who don’t usually enjoy strong coffee.Perfect for gifting or enjoying at home, with convenient packaging and a beautiful story.Not Just a Drink — A Cultural ExperienceUFO Hue Salted Coffee is more than just a trendy beverage. It reflects the deep-rooted culture of Hue — a city known for its elegance, subtlety, and balance. Each cup brings together tradition and innovation, simplicity and complexity.From the first sip, you’ll notice the rich aroma and bold body of Vietnamese coffee. Then comes the creamy texture and light sweetness — all wrapped in a gentle touch of salt that makes everything come alive. Finally, the smooth aftertaste lingers long after your last sip, leaving a lasting impression.The Power of Salt in Vietnamese CoffeeSalt may seem like a small ingredient, but in the hands of a master — or in this case, a well-crafted recipe — it becomes the key to unlocking deeper, more harmonious flavors. Hue salted coffee by UFO Coffee is proof of that: a beautiful blend of tradition, creativity, and a dash of boldness.
View detail..15 Jul, 2025 122
What Is Saigon to You?Is it the early-morning street vendors calling out through quiet alleys?The hum of motorbikes gliding past in the golden sunrise?Or maybe… it’s a glass of iced milk coffee in your hand — just strong enough to wake you up, just sweet enough to fall in love with the day.Saigon, to each person, is a different slice of life.For some, it’s a favorite street corner café.For others, the sudden midday rain.And sometimes, it’s simply the perfect cup of Cà Phê Sữa Đá.In Saigon, iced milk coffee isn’t just a drink — it’s a way of life.From the motorbike taxi driver waiting at the alley, the street vendor pushing her cart, to the young creatives typing away in cafés — everyone turns to this cup as a daily companion.The bold kick of robusta coffee reflects the city's raw energy and directness. The creamy sweetness of condensed milk is like the Saigon spirit itself — warm, generous, open-hearted without needing to impress.At UFO Coffee, we’ve bottled that spirit into every packet of Saigon Iced Milk Coffee — so no matter where you are, in just one minute, you can reconnect with that Saigon feeling.No waiting for the slow drip of a traditional filter.No need to leave your house.Just one cup, and Saigon returns — vibrant, energetic, full of life.And sometimes, that’s all we need.A little reminder that we’re still moving to the rhythm of this incredible city.
View detail..15 Jul, 2025 48
Tracing the Origins of Hanoi’s Iconic Egg Coffee – And How UFO Coffee Keeps It AliveIn the heart of Hanoi — a thousand-year-old capital where every street corner holds a piece of history — the morning doesn’t rush. It lingers, soft and gentle, wrapped in cool air and distant echoes of motorbikes. Amid this slow rhythm of life, egg coffee was born — a humble invention that would go on to become a treasured symbol of the city.The story began in 1946, during difficult times when fresh milk was hard to find. In a small café, a barista with both creativity and heart whisked egg yolks with sugar, creating a rich, foamy cream to replace milk. He poured it gently over hot, strong Vietnamese coffee — and something magical happened. The bitterness of the coffee met the creamy sweetness of the foam in a perfect harmony. The result was egg coffee: silky, aromatic, comforting, and unlike anything else.From then on, egg coffee wasn’t just a drink — it became a piece of Hanoi’s soul. Locals and travelers alike found themselves drawn to it, not just for the taste, but for the experience: the way it warmed cold fingers on a winter morning, or how it invited slow, thoughtful conversation in the corner of a quiet café. It was Hanoi in a cup — warm, nostalgic, and deeply Vietnamese. And today, UFO Coffee proudly brings that legacy to your hands.At UFO Coffee, we believe great coffee should carry more than just flavor — it should carry stories, emotions, and identity. That’s why we’ve carefully recreated the iconic Hanoi Egg Coffee in a convenient instant form — so you can enjoy this unique heritage drink wherever life takes you.We use quality Vietnamese coffee, paired with a special formula that captures the rich creaminess of whipped egg and the depth of robusta beans — ready in minutes, but echoing decades of tradition. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or far from Vietnam, one sip will take you back to the narrow alleys of Hanoi, to early mornings wrapped in mist and memory.With every pack of UFO Egg Coffee, we’re not just delivering convenience — we’re passing on a story. A legacy of resilience, creativity, and timeless flavor.
View detail..15 Jul, 2025 64
The Love Story Behind Salted CoffeeAt a dinner party, a quiet, modest young man found himself captivated by a radiant, beautiful girl. Gathering all his courage, he invited her out for coffee.In a small, cozy café, nerves got the better of him, and he accidentally ordered coffee with salt instead of sugar. The girl was surprised — but curious. She took a sip, then looked up to see him blushing, nervously explaining that the taste reminded him of his coastal hometown. His eyes sparkled with sincerity. She smiled and shared stories of her own childhood, sipping tea with her grandfather. And just like that, a quiet connection began to bloom.They kept meeting. Over time, it wasn’t the salt in the coffee that won her heart — it was his kindness, his thoughtfulness, and his quiet strength. Their love grew, simple but deep, rooted in understanding. On their wedding day, she felt certain she had chosen the right man.Every morning after that, she made him a cup of salted coffee — believing he loved its unique taste. And every morning, he drank it all with a warm smile.Years later, after he passed away, she found a letter he had written:“My love, I have a confession — I never really liked salted coffee. It was a mistake that first time. But I drank it every day because you made it with love. Thank you for giving me a full, beautiful life.”Tears rolled down her cheeks as she clutched the letter. In that moment, she truly understood the quiet, enduring love he had given her — not loud, but lifelong. And so, she kept making salted coffee every morning — not for the taste, but to feel that love still beside her
View detail..14 Jun, 2024 72
Hue Salted Coffee – From Imperial Heritage to Modern-Day FavoriteIn Vietnam, food and drink are more than just sustenance — they’re stories, memories, and culture in every bite and sip. Hue salted coffee is a perfect example of this quiet charm.Born in a small café tucked beside the ancient walls of the Hue Citadel, salted coffee first made its mark as a humble local favorite. A curious blend of salty, sweet, and bitter, this drink surprised many — and delighted even more. Over time, its rich, balanced flavor began to captivate visitors. People came to Hue and left with one lingering memory: that unforgettable cup of salted coffee — smooth, deep, and quietly bold, just like the rhythm of the ancient capital itself.Today, Hue salted coffee has grown beyond its hometown. It has become a rising trend among young coffee lovers, showing up in cozy meet-ups, afternoon breaks, and even creative menus. The slight saltiness, paired with creamy sweetness and strong Vietnamese roast, creates a one-of-a-kind cup that speaks to both tradition and modern taste. And now, UFO Coffee brings that experience closer than ever.With care and respect for tradition, UFO Coffee has recreated the authentic taste of Hue in a convenient instant form. No need to travel to the central region — just one packet, a splash of hot water, and you’re transported to the heart of Hue. It’s easy to make, yet true to its roots: rich, aromatic, and full of character.Wherever you are — at home, in the office, or on the go — UFO Coffee’s Hue Salted Coffee is ready to bring you a moment of calm, depth, and cultural flavor.
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