Kopi-O

Malaysia / Singapore — kopitiam tradition

The simplest kopitiam order: black coffee with sugar, no milk. But 'black coffee' undersells what makes it different. The beans are roasted with sugar and margarine before grinding, giving kopi-O a caramelized sweetness and buttery undertone from the sugar-margarine roast. The 'O' comes from the Hokkien word for black (烏, pronounced 'oh').

How to make it

1. 1

   Use kopitiam-roasted beans (roasted with sugar and margarine for caramelized flavor).

2. 2

   Brew through a cloth sock filter, pouring hot water over the grounds slowly.

3. 3

   Let it steep and drip for 4–5 minutes into a cup.

4. 4

   Add sugar to taste — typically 1–2 teaspoons.

5. 5

   Serve black in a small cup or glass. No milk, no fuss.