Instant Coffee
Global • Vegan
How to Make Instant Coffee (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Instant coffee, known as 'Nescafe' or 'Bru' in many Indian homes, is a quick and comforting beverage enjoyed across the globe, especially in India. While its origins are global, instant coffee has seamlessly woven itself into Indian culture, becoming a daily ritual for millions. Whether it's the first thing you sip in the morning or an energy booster during a work break, instant coffee is cherished for its convenience, robust flavor, and the warmth it brings to conversations. In India, 'phitti hui coffee' (beaten coffee) is a popular style where instant coffee is whipped with sugar and a splash of water, creating a frothy, café-style drink at home. This healthy instant coffee recipe uses low-fat milk and natural sweeteners, making it suitable for calorie watchers. Enjoy the classic taste of coffee with an Indian twist, perfect for both busy mornings and relaxed evenings. It's vegetarian, satisfying, and easy to adapt for various dietary needs, making it a beloved snack-time or breakfast beverage across diverse Indian households.
Ingredients(for 1 cup (200 ml) instant coffee)
- 2 teaspoons Instant coffee powder (Nescafe or Bru)
- 1 cup (200 ml) Low-fat milk (use skimmed for fewer calories)
- 1 cup (200 ml) Water (filtered)
- 1-2 teaspoons Natural sweetener (stevia or honey; adjust to taste) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon powder (dalchini, optional for flavor) - optional
- 1/2 teaspoon Cocoa powder (unsweetened, optional for mocha flavor) - optional
- A pinch Cardamom powder (elaichi, optional) - optional
- As needed Ice cubes (for iced coffee variation) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a mug, combine instant coffee powder and sweetener. Add 2 tablespoons of hot water and beat vigorously with a spoon for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns light and frothy.
3 minutes
Use a whisk or milk frother for extra foam.
- 2
Heat milk in a saucepan until just about to boil. Do not let it overflow. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2 minutes
For vegan coffee, substitute with almond or oat milk.
- 3
Pour hot milk into the beaten coffee mixture. Stir gently to combine, creating a creamy, frothy top layer.
1 minute
For extra foam, pour milk from a height.
- 4
Add cinnamon powder, cardamom, or cocoa for enhanced flavor, if desired. Mix well.
1 minute
Spices add aroma and health benefits.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This instant coffee recipe is a healthy choice because it limits added sugars and uses low-fat or non-dairy milk options. The antioxidants in coffee support cell health, while the minimal fat content keeps it light on the stomach. Natural spices not only enhance taste but also add nutritional value. It’s quick to prepare, making it easy to avoid calorie-laden store-bought beverages and enjoy a comforting cup at home.
Instant coffee is low in calories and contains beneficial antioxidants. Using low-fat or plant-based milk reduces saturated fat, while natural sweeteners keep sugar content minimal. Coffee provides a small amount of potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins. Adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom can boost metabolism and aid digestion. Avoiding excessive sugar and using moderate coffee quantities makes this beverage a healthy addition to your daily routine.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Whip coffee and sweetener well for a frothy layer.
- 💡Tip 2: Use hot but not boiling milk to avoid scalding.
- 💡Tip 3: For vegan versions, unsweetened almond milk works best.
- 💡Tip 4: Add a pinch of salt to balance bitterness.
- 💡Tip 5: Serve immediately for best flavor and aroma.
Storage & Serving
Best enjoyed fresh. Beaten coffee mixture can be refrigerated for up to 1 day. Prepared coffee keeps for 4 hours at room temperature.
Best served: Breakfast or Snack Time
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 4.0 kcal |
| Protein | 12.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 73.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.3 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 0.0 g |
| Iron | 4.0 mg |
| Calcium | 110.0 mg |
| Sodium | 60.0 mg |
| Potassium | 3500.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 327.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.4 mg |
| Phosphorus | 160.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 28.0 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 µg |
| Folate | 30.0 µg |
