Indian filter coffee is a traditional South Indian coffee brewing method that is made using a metal filter. It is a strong, sweet and milky coffee that is made by brewing coffee decoction and milk together. The coffee decoction is usually made with a dark roasted coffee beans and it is brewed to a very fine powder.
The process of making coffee decoction begins by adding coffee grounds to a pot of water and bringing the mixture to a boil. Once the mixture reaches boiling point, it is simmered for a few minutes to allow the coffee’s flavors and aromas to be extracted from the coffee grounds. The resulting liquid is a strong, concentrated coffee that is known as coffee decoction.
The brewing process begins by heating a small amount of water in a pot, and then adding the coffee powder to the water. The mixture is then brought to a boil, and then simmered for a few minutes. The resulting coffee decoction is then poured through a metal filter, which separates the coffee grounds from the liquid.
The metal filter used in Indian filter coffee is traditionally made of stainless steel and it is a simple cylindrical or conical shape. The filter has a perforated bottom, and it sits on top of a glass or stainless steel container. The coffee decoction is poured over the filter, which allows the liquid coffee to pass through while trapping the coffee grounds.
The filtered coffee is then mixed with sweetened milk and poured into a small glass or tumbler. The resulting coffee is a strong, sweet and milky coffee that is a staple in South Indian households and it’s also widely served in Indian restaurants and cafes.
It’s worth noting that Indian filter coffee is also known as “Kaapi” or “Kapi” which means “coffee” in Tamil and Malayalam.
How to Make Indian filter coffee
Here are the step-by-step instructions for making Indian filter coffee:
- Start by measuring out the desired amount of coffee beans. A good starting point is 2 tablespoons of coffee beans per cup of water. Use a coarse grind for the coffee beans.
- In a small pot, bring a measured amount of water to a boil. Use a ratio of 1:2 (coffee:water)
- Once the water is boiling, add the coffee grounds to the pot and stir well.
- Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This will allow the coffee’s flavors and aromas to be extracted from the grounds.
- While the coffee is simmering, prepare your metal filter by washing it with hot water to remove any unwanted odors.
- After the coffee has simmered, remove the pot from the heat and pour the coffee decoction through the metal filter into a container.
- In a separate pot, heat the desired amount of milk. Add sugar according to your taste.
- Once the milk is heated, add it to the filtered coffee. Mix well.
- Carefully pour the coffee mixture into small glass or tumbler.
- Serve the Indian filter coffee hot and enjoy the strong and sweet flavor of the coffee.
It’s worth noting that you can adjust the ratios of coffee, water, and milk according to your taste. You can also add spices like cardamom or ginger to the coffee mixture for a different flavor.
