Coffee has become a versatile drink that is served everywhere – from corner cafes to street stands to vending machines. Coffee culture has expanded to all corners of the world, and with that comes the question – can you drink coffee in Thailand?
The good news is that, yes, you can drink coffee in Thailand. Thais have taken to this popular beverage since the late 19th century. In particular, Thai iced coffee or “cha yen” has been popular in Thailand for over a hundred years. Cha yen is made with strong brewed black arabica coffee that is served over a glass of ice and sweetened with sugar and evaporated milk, usually sweetened condensed milk.
Though cha yen is popular in Thailand, espresso-based beverages, such as cappuccinos and lattes, are more commonly found in cafes, especially those catering to tourists. However, do not expect to find them in traditional markets or roadside stands.
The Thai coffee industry has been growing in recent years, as more and more local roasters and cafés have been popping up. These local cafes usually serve fresh roasted beans and offer different pouring styles for their coffees. Some even allow customers to design their own signature drinks with unique toppings or syrups.
When searching for cafes in Thailand, keep in mind that the best ones serve freshly brewed coffee that is carefully prepared and properly extracted. Additionally, they serve excellent pastries and snacks. It is also important to note that, while prices at traditional cafes in Thailand are lower than in Western countries, they are still more expensive than regular street stalls.
In addition to cafe culture, a number of Thai specialty coffee shops have opened around the country. These coffee shops specialize in high-end specialty coffee, featuring rare and unique brewing methods like siphon or cold brew. Here, trained baristas will serve different coffees with high-quality beans from all over the world.
The bottom line is, yes, you can drink some excellent coffee in Thailand. Whether you prefer a traditional cha yen or a modern-style espresso-based beverage, there is something for everyone. Just remember to keep an eye out for high-quality cafes and specialty coffee shops.
Coffee Beans in Thailand
Coffee beans in Thailand are usually of two types – Robusta and Arabica. Robusta beans are produced in the Central, North and North-East regions, while Arabica beans are grown in the South. The Arabica beans are known to produce more flavorsome and aromatic coffee when compared to Robusta beans.
Coffee grown in Thailand is usually sourced from small-scale farmers. These farmers usually specialize in producing Arabica beans. They also employ traditional processing methods, such as mountainous sun-drying, that are designed to preserve the inherent flavor of the beans.
The majority of coffee beans cultivated in Thailand are exported to countries across the globe for use in various coffee-based products. In recent years, however, there have been increasing efforts to make Thai-grown beans available domestically as well.
There are a number of coffee shops in Thailand that source and roast locally grown coffee beans. Most of these shops also offer coffee brewing equipment, making it easy for customers to prepare their own coffee at home.
Brewing Coffee in Thailand
Brewing coffee in Thailand is quite easy, and most households have a coffee maker or an espresso machine. However, if you prefer a simple cup of coffee, opt for a French press. It allows you to make a fresh, smooth cup of coffee without any hassle.
Cha yen is traditionally served cold, but you can also enjoy it hot. To make a hot cha yen, place a tablespoon of ground coffee in a French press and add a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for four to five minutes before pressing down the filter and pouring the coffee into a glass. For extra flavor, add a dash of condensed milk.
If you prefer an espresso-based beverage, an espresso machine is the way to go. The most popular espresso drinks in Thailand are cappuccinos and lattes. To make a cappuccino, combine one part espresso with two parts steamed milk in a coffee cup. Top it off with a dusting of cocoa powder. To make a latte, combine one part espresso with three parts milk.
Coffee Prices in Thailand
Coffee prices vary in Thailand depending on the type of coffee and its origin. In general, prices vary from 40 to 80 baht for a cup of drinking coffee. Cappuccinos and lattes are typically slightly more expensive, at 70 to 120 baht for a cup.
Coffee beans, meanwhile, can also be purchased from local stores, supermarkets, and online merchants. Prices vary from between 300 and 500 baht per kilogram. For specialty coffees with unique brewing methods or rare beans, prices may be higher.
Keep in mind that, if you purchase loose beans, the freshness of the beans is key. Try to buy beans roasted within a month and use them up within six weeks of purchase. This way, you can be sure your coffee is fresh and flavorful.
Health Benefits of Coffee in Thailand
Coffee has long been associated with certain health benefits, and this also applies in Thailand. Studies have found that, when consumed in moderation, coffee can offer benefits such as improved cognition and alertness, as well as cardioprotective effects.
In terms of caffeine content, most Thai iced and espresso-based coffees contain about 75–100 mg of caffeine per cup. For comparison, a regular cup of brewed filter coffee contains roughly 100–200 mg of caffeine. When it comes to health benefits, it is best to stick to moderate levels of caffeine consumption.
It is also worth noting that, when it comes to coffee, the quality of the beans and how they are prepared is just as important as the caffeine content. The best beans are fresh, high-quality, and carefully sourced, while the best preparation methods are those that preserve the inherent flavor of the beans.
Where to Find the Best Coffee in Thailand
The best place to find quality coffee in Thailand is at specialty and local cafes. Specialty coffee shops are increasing in number throughout Thailand, and these offer a variety of rare, high-end coffees from all over the world.
Local cafes may not specialize in unique brewing styles and rare beans, but they offer quality freshly brewed coffee for a fraction of the price. Most local cafes also have their own roasting machines and freshly bake their pastries daily.
For traditional Thai iced coffee, almost any street stall or market will offer a cup of cha yen. However, if you are looking for the best experience, shopping malls and department stores usually offer a selection of high-quality coffee beans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, coffee is a popular beverage in Thailand and can be found in many places throughout the country. From the traditional cha yen to espresso-based beverages to specialty coffees, there is something for everyone. Just be sure to look for high-quality coffee beans and carefully prepared drinks to get the most out of your coffee-drinking experience.
