🇹🇭 Thailand · Drinks
Thai Iced Coffee (Oliang)
By eatmundo · July 9, 2026
A robust and invigorating Thai iced coffee, traditionally brewed strong and sweetened, often served over ice. Its rich, almost smoky flavor, sometimes enhanced with a hint of roasted grains, makes it a perfect pick-me-up on a hot day.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Place 2 tablespoons of Thai dark roast coffee powder into a coffee filter set over a mug or a French press. Ensure the coffee is finely ground for optimal flavor extraction.
- 2
Pour 250ml of boiling water over the coffee grounds, making sure to saturate all the powder evenly. Allow it to steep for a robust 4-5 minutes for a strong brew, or longer if you prefer an even bolder taste.
- 3
Carefully strain the coffee concentrate into a heatproof glass, ensuring no grounds remain. If using a French press, slowly push the plunger down. You'll have a dark, fragrant liquid.
- 4
Stir in 2-3 teaspoons of sugar until completely dissolved. For a traditional 'Oliang,' this is sufficient. For a creamier 'Oliang Yok Lor,' add 1-2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk now.
- 5
Fill a tall serving glass generously to the brim with ice cubes. The ample amount of ice will chill the hot coffee quickly without excessive dilution.
- 6
Pour the sweetened, strong coffee over the ice. For 'Oliang Yok Lor,' you can optionally drizzle a final layer of 1-2 tablespoons of evaporated milk on top, creating a creamy contrast before serving. Stir well before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'Oliang' and 'Oliang Yok Lor'?+
'Oliang' refers to black Thai iced coffee, typically sweetened only with sugar. 'Oliang Yok Lor' is the same coffee but with added milk or cream, often sweetened condensed milk and/or evaporated milk.
Can I use regular dark roast coffee instead of Thai coffee powder?+
Yes, you can, but for the most authentic flavor, a Thai dark roast coffee powder (which often includes roasted grains like corn or rice) is recommended. Ensure it's a very strong brew.
How can I make my Thai iced coffee less bitter?+
To reduce bitterness, you can try steeping the coffee for a slightly shorter time (e.g., 3 minutes) or adjust the amount of sweetener to balance the coffee's intensity.
Can I prepare the coffee concentrate ahead of time?+
Yes, you can brew the coffee concentrate, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just add ice and sweeteners when ready to serve.
Mundo Match
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