Kopi Susu
Indonesian • Vegetarian
How to Make Kopi Susu (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kopi Susu is a beloved Indonesian beverage that combines robust coffee with creamy milk, making it a comforting snack or breakfast drink. Originating from the bustling coffee houses of Indonesia, this drink has gained popularity across South and Southeast Asia for its rich, bold flavors and aromatic appeal. While not traditionally Indian, Kopi Susu has found its place in Indian urban cafés and homes, especially among coffee enthusiasts who appreciate versatile and globally inspired snacks. The combination of strong coffee and milk offers both a caffeine boost and soothing creaminess, making it ideal for the Indian palate that loves balancing flavors and textures. Embracing health-conscious adaptations, this recipe uses low-fat milk and a touch of jaggery instead of refined sugar, keeping it lighter and suitable for calorie trackers. Kopi Susu makes a delightful addition to your vegetarian snack repertoire, perfect for relaxed evenings, brunches, or even as a post-meal treat. Its smooth, slightly sweet profile pairs beautifully with Indian tea-time snacks like biscuits or rusks, making it a fusion favorite that bridges Indonesian and Indian culinary cultures.
Ingredients(for 1 large cup (200 ml) Kopi Susu)
- 1 cup Freshly brewed strong coffee (Use filter coffee or espresso)
- 1 cup Low-fat milk (Doodh, boiled and cooled)
- 2 tablespoons Jaggery powder (Gud, for natural sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Optional, for flavor) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon powder (Dalchini, adds warmth) - optional
- 4-6 cubes Ice cubes (For iced version) - optional
- 1 pinch Cardamom powder (Elaichi, optional Indian touch) - optional
- 1/2 cup Filtered water (For brewing coffee)
- To taste Stevia or coconut sugar (Healthier sweetener option) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Brew a strong cup of coffee using your preferred method (filter, French press, or espresso machine). Use freshly ground coffee beans for best flavor.
5 minutes
Use South Indian filter coffee for a robust taste.
- 2
Heat the low-fat milk in a saucepan until just simmering. Avoid boiling to preserve nutrients and prevent a skin forming.
3 minutes
Stir constantly to avoid sticking or burning.
- 3
Add jaggery powder to the hot milk, stirring until fully dissolved. If using stevia or coconut sugar, add now and adjust sweetness to taste.
2 minutes
Jaggery gives a rich, earthy sweetness and is healthier than refined sugar.
- 4
Blend the brewed coffee and sweetened milk together in a heatproof jug. Add vanilla, cinnamon, or cardamom powder for extra flavor if desired.
2 minutes
A pinch of cardamom gives an Indian twist to the classic recipe.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Kopi Susu recipe is tailored for health-conscious individuals by limiting added sugars and using nutrient-rich ingredients. Low-fat milk reduces calorie and fat content while still providing essential minerals and protein. Jaggery replaces white sugar, offering a slower release of energy and additional micronutrients. The beverage is hydrating, energizing, and fits well into a balanced vegetarian diet, making it a smart choice for those tracking their calories or seeking a healthy snack.
Kopi Susu provides a good balance of protein and calcium from milk, along with antioxidants from coffee. By using jaggery instead of refined sugar, you add iron and trace minerals. The recipe is vegetarian, low in saturated fat (with low-fat milk), and can be made vegan by substituting with almond or soy milk. The addition of spices like cinnamon and cardamom may help regulate blood sugar and improve digestion. Overall, Kopi Susu is a nutritious beverage when consumed in moderation.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly ground coffee beans for a richer flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Dissolve jaggery completely to avoid grainy texture.
- 💡Tip 3: For vegan version, try unsweetened almond or soy milk.
- 💡Tip 4: Chill the glasses before serving iced Kopi Susu.
- 💡Tip 5: Add a pinch of cardamom for Indian fusion flavor.
Storage & Serving
Keeps for 6-8 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Shake or stir before serving chilled.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 90.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12.0 g |
| Total Fat | 2.8 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 11.0 g |
| Iron | 0.1 mg |
| Calcium | 90.0 mg |
| Sodium | 45.0 mg |
| Potassium | 220.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 10.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 50.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 18.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 95.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.3 µg |
| Folate | 5.0 µg |
