When discussing Saigon, it conjures images of vibrant streets, delectable cuisine, and above all, coffee. Among the myriad of beverage choices, Bac Xiu always occupies a cherished spot in the hearts of both Saigon locals and visitors. Vietnamese Bac Xiu Coffee, a straightforward yet culturally rich drink, is an essential element of life for the people in this city.

What is Bạc xỉu?

Bac Xiu, alternatively referred to as white coffee, traces its origins back to the Chinese community residing in the Saigon – Cho Lon region during the 1950s-1960s. Over time, it has evolved into a beloved beverage not only within Saigon but also in its neighboring areas.

Bac Xiu shares similarities with milk coffee, yet the distinction lies in the proportion of coffee to milk. While milk coffee typically contains more coffee than milk, Bac Xiu follows the opposite ratio, with the amount of milk surpassing that of coffee. This fundamental difference distinguishes these two beverages from each other.

The origins of Vietnamese Bac Xiu

Bac Xiu stands as a unique fusion of three distinct cultures: Chinese, Vietnamese, and French, celebrated as a specialty of Saigon. During Vietnam’s French colonial era from 1858 to 1954, the Chinese community in Saigon emerged as pioneers in the restaurant industry, predating the Vietnamese. Among their offerings was coffee, which initially consisted of black coffee and milk coffee. However, these beverages posed a challenge for women and children unaccustomed to the bitter taste of coffee, despite being enticed by its aroma and flavor. In response, the Chinese community in Saigon modified the milk coffee recipe by decreasing the coffee ratio and increasing the milk content, catering to even the most discerning coffee aficionados. This adaptation gave rise to Bac Xiu, a beverage that harmoniously blends the influences of its diverse cultural roots.

Bac Xiu was conceived to accommodate children and women who frequented coffee shops alongside their male companions. Often, these groups found the robust bitterness of black coffee unpalatable, yet they were drawn to its enticing aroma. Bac Xiu was crafted to meet their preferences, offering a milder and more approachable coffee experience. This versatile beverage can be enjoyed either hot or cold, with the aroma particularly pronounced and delightful when served hot. Additionally, Bac Xiu complements culinary delights such as banh thi and fried porridge, enhancing the overall gastronomic experience.

Differences between Vietnamese milk coffee and Bac Xiu coffee

Characteristics	Milk Coffee	Bac Xiu Coffee
Ingredients	Filtered black coffee, Condensed milk, Ice	Filtered black coffee, Fresh milk, Condensed milk (optional), Ice
Ratio	More coffee than milk	More milk than coffee
Colour	Dark brown	Light brown, stratified with a layer of white fresh milk
Taste	The coffee flavor is rich, sweet and fatty from condensed milk	Coffee flavor is light, fatty from fresh milk, sweet from condensed milk (if any)
Preparation	Brew black coffee, put ice in the cup, pour coffee over, then add condensed milk	Brew black coffee, put ice in the cup, pour fresh milk, then pour coffee gently on top
Origin	Widely popular	Imported from China, morepopular in Saigon
Variations	Can be enhanced with blended ice, jelly, pearls,…	Less additionals

>>> Vietnamese Milk Coffee – the best drink ever

Guidance for Crafting Tasty Vietnamese Bac Xiu Coffee

Ingredients

• 30ml Filtered Black Coffee
• 30ml Condensed Milk
• 100ml Sugar-Free Fresh Milk
• Ice cubes
• Egg whisk or milk frother (optional)

Steps

Step 1: Brew Coffee

If utilizing a coffee filter: Pour 20ml of hot water into the filter, brew coffee for 30 seconds. Next, add another 30ml of hot water into the filter and allow the coffee to drip down. If using pre-made coffee: Pour 30ml of black coffee into the cup.

Step 2: Create milk foam

Pour condensed milk into the coffee cup. Utilize an egg beater or milk frother to whip the milk until it becomes smooth.

Step 3: Preparing Bac Xiu

Place ice cubes in a glass, then pour the whipped milk mixture over the ice cubes. Carefully pour the black coffee into the glass, ensuring the milk foam remains intact.

Step 4: Enjoy

You can garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a drizzle of caramel syrup. For the best taste, it’s recommended to enjoy Bac Xiu immediately after mixing to savor its delicious flavor fully.

Notice

• You can customize the quantities of coffee, condensed milk, and fresh milk to suit your taste preferences.
• For optimal flavor, it’s advisable to use pure coffee.
• Whipping the milk until smooth is crucial for crafting a visually appealing and delicious cup of Bac Xiu.
• When pouring the coffee, do so gently to prevent disrupting the milk foam.

Where can one savor Vietnamese Bac Xiu in Singapore?

Bac Xiu, a distinctive fusion of bold black coffee and creamy milk, is beloved by many Vietnamese. If you’re seeking a spot to indulge in a delightful cup of Vietnamese-style Bac Xiu in Singapore, Baguette & Coffee is a perfect destination for you.

Why choose us?

• Pure Coffee: We utilize 100% pure roasted and ground coffee, ensuring a delectable and robust flavor.
• Traditional Recipe: Bac Xiu at Baguette&Coffee is crafted following a traditional Vietnamese recipe, delivering the most exquisite taste.

Visit Baguette & Coffee today to savor a delightful cup of authentic Vietnamese Bac Xiu! Have a look at our menu here