Instant Coffee with Sugar
Global • Eggetarian
How to Make Instant Coffee with Sugar (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Instant Coffee with Sugar is a beloved beverage across India, enjoyed in homes, offices, and roadside chai tapris alike. This quick and easy drink has become an integral part of daily routines, offering a comforting warmth and a burst of energy. In India, instant coffee gained popularity during the 1970s, thanks to brands like Bru and Nescafé, which made coffee accessible beyond the southern filter coffee strongholds. The rich aroma of freshly dissolved instant coffee combined with sugar creates a delightful experience, perfect for early mornings, monsoon evenings, or as a pick-me-up during festivals like Diwali, Holi, or New Year's. Unlike traditional South Indian filter kaapi, instant coffee is swift to prepare and can be customized to taste, making it a favorite among students, busy professionals, and families alike. Taste-wise, Indian instant coffee with sugar is smooth, slightly sweet, and has a robust flavor profile that pairs well with local snacks such as samosas or biscuits. The preparation ritual is simple yet satisfying, often involving whipping the coffee and sugar together to create a creamy froth called 'beaten coffee' or 'phenti hui coffee', which is especially popular in North India. The drink is versatile, enjoyed hot during winter or chilled as iced coffee in the summer, making it a year-round staple. This recipe provides a health-conscious version, focusing on balanced sweetness and low-fat milk to keep calories in check while preserving authentic taste and texture.
Ingredients(for 1 cup (approximately 150 ml) per serving)
- 2 teaspoons Instant coffee powder (Bru, Nescafé or local brand)
- 2 teaspoons Sugar (chini)
- 1 cup Low-fat milk (doodh; toned or skimmed)
- 1 cup Water (pani; filtered)
- 1 pinch Cinnamon powder (dalchini, optional) - optional
- 1 pinch Cardamom powder (elaichi, optional) - optional
- 2 drops Vanilla essence (optional) - optional
- 4-5 pieces Ice cubes (for iced coffee variation) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine instant coffee powder and sugar. Add 2 teaspoons of warm water and vigorously whip using a spoon until the mixture turns light and frothy (phenti hui coffee).
3 minutes
Whipping longer creates a creamy foam and enhances flavor.
- 2
In a saucepan (patila), bring milk and water to a gentle boil over medium flame. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
2 minutes
Use low-fat milk for fewer calories and a lighter taste.
- 3
Add a pinch of cinnamon (dalchini) and cardamom (elaichi) powder for a subtle Indian spice twist. Stir well.
1 minute
Spices add aroma and antioxidants.
- 4
Pour the hot milk-water mixture into the whipped coffee-sugar bowl. Stir gently to combine, creating a rich layer of foam on top.
1 minute
Pour from a height for extra froth.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing toned or skimmed milk reduces overall fat and calorie content, making this beverage suitable for weight management and heart health. Antioxidants in coffee and spices support metabolic and cognitive functions. The recipe's portion control and use of natural flavors make it ideal for those tracking macros or seeking a lighter snack alongside breakfast or lunch.
Instant coffee with sugar made with low-fat milk provides a moderate amount of protein and calcium, while keeping saturated fat low. Coffee itself is rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals. Adding Indian spices like dalchini and elaichi boosts anti-inflammatory properties and digestion. Sugar is kept minimal to control calories and glycemic load. The recipe is vegetarian, contains no gluten, and can be adapted for vegans by using plant-based milk.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Whip coffee and sugar thoroughly for a café-style froth.
- 💡Tip 2: Use kulhar or clay cups for a traditional earthy aroma.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra creaminess, add a splash of condensed milk (malai) as a treat.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed fresh. If prepared in advance, store in an airtight flask for up to 2 hours. For iced coffee, refrigerate and use within 24 hours.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 30.0 kcal |
