Kopi-C

Malaysia / Singapore — kopitiam tradition

The 'C' stands for Carnation — the evaporated milk brand so ubiquitous in kopitiam culture that it became the generic term. Kopi-C uses evaporated milk instead of condensed milk, making it lighter and less sweet than standard kopi. If you want to taste the actual coffee through the milk without the sugar overload, this is the order. Add 'kosong' (zero) to skip the sugar entirely.

How to make it

1. 1

   Brew kopi through a cloth sock filter using traditional margarine-roasted grounds.

2. 2

   Add sugar to the cup (unless ordering 'kosong' for no sugar).

3. 3

   Pour in 2 tablespoons of evaporated milk — not condensed milk.

4. 4

   Add the hot brewed coffee and stir to combine.

5. 5

   The result is lighter and less cloying than condensed milk versions.