
Kopi Tubruk
Indonesian • Vegan
How to Make Kopi Tubruk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kopi Tubruk is a classic Indonesian coffee drink cherished for its deep, earthy flavors and simple preparation. While not Indian in origin, its bold, unfiltered style resonates with Indian coffee lovers who enjoy South Indian filter coffee or 'kaapi.' Copied across generations in Java and Bali, Kopi Tubruk involves brewing coarsely ground robusta coffee directly with hot water and a touch of sugar, resulting in a strong and comforting beverage. Its rustic charm makes it a delightful snack-time drink, perfect for Indian monsoon evenings or as a mid-morning energizer. For Indian calorie-conscious drinkers, Kopi Tubruk offers a satisfying, vegetarian-friendly alternative to heavy cream-laden coffees. Unlike sugary commercial coffees, this traditional preparation uses minimal ingredients, allowing you to control sweetness and calories. Its rich aroma and intense taste pair well with Indian snacks like poha or upma, making it a great addition to your healthy snack repertoire. Embracing Kopi Tubruk introduces Indian homes to the vibrant café culture of Indonesia, while keeping your wellness goals in check.
Ingredients(for 1 cup (about 150 ml) per serving)
- 2 tablespoons Coarsely ground robusta coffee (freshly ground for best flavor)
- 300 ml Boiling water (freshly boiled)
- 1-2 teaspoons Unrefined cane sugar (gur or jaggery) (adjust to taste) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Cardamom powder (optional, adds Indian touch) - optional
- 1 small (2 cm) Cinnamon stick (optional, for aroma) - optional
- 1 Clove (optional) - optional
- 2 tablespoons Low-fat milk or plant milk (optional, for creaminess) - optional
- as needed Stevia or low-calorie sweetener (optional, for weight loss version) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Add coarsely ground robusta coffee to two sturdy cups or glasses.
1 minute
Use a traditional brass filter cup for authentic experience.
- 2
Add unrefined cane sugar or jaggery to each cup as per your preferred sweetness.
1 minute
For a healthier version, use less sugar or a natural sweetener like stevia.
- 3
Optionally, add a pinch of cardamom powder, a small cinnamon stick, or a clove to infuse subtle Indian flavors.
1 minute
Spices are optional, but they add depth and fusion to the drink.
- 4
Pour boiling water (about 150 ml per cup) directly onto the coffee and sweetener in each cup.
1 minute
Pour from a height to help mix and release aroma.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Kopi Tubruk recipe is an excellent alternative to high-calorie café drinks. With control over sugar and milk, you can keep calories in check while enjoying a robust, flavorful beverage. Coffee is linked to improved alertness and metabolism, and the absence of heavy cream or syrups makes this drink suitable for weight loss and diabetic diets. Its simplicity and natural ingredients make it a perfect fit for mindful Indian calorie trackers.
Kopi Tubruk is naturally low in calories, especially when prepared without added sugar or with a natural sweetener. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which may help combat oxidative stress. The optional spices like cardamom and cinnamon add micronutrients and aid digestion. Using plant-based milk or low-fat milk keeps fat content minimal, making this drink suitable for most balanced diets. It's also free from gluten and can be made vegan-friendly.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly ground robusta beans for authentic flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Let the coffee settle before drinking for a smoother sip.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust sweetness to your dietary needs.
- 💡Tip 4: Try with a pinch of Indian spices for a unique fusion.
- 💡Tip 5: Serve in clear glasses to appreciate the color and layers.
Storage & Serving
Best enjoyed fresh. Can be kept for up to 2 hours at room temperature; grounds may over-extract if left too long.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 30.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 0.0 g |
| Iron | 0.0 mg |
| Calcium | 2.0 mg |
| Sodium | 2.0 mg |
| Potassium | 50.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 3.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 5.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 µg |
| Folate | 2.0 µg |




