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- What is Yuenyeung Coffee?
- Cha Chaan Tengs and Yuenyeung Coffee
- Yuenyeung Coffee Ingredients
- How to Make Yuenyeung Coffee
What is Hong Kong Yuenyeung Coffee?
Comprised of coffee and Hong Kong-style milk tea, this go-to local beverage in Hong Kong can be found on just about every street corner in the city and is loved by juat about everyone - locals HKers, expats, tourists, people from all walks of life!
Yuenyeung can be served hot or cold and is a hallmark of cha chaan tengs, Hong Kong-style diners that emerged around 70 years ago. The name Yuenyeung refers to mandarin ducks, which are believed to mate for life and symbolise lifelong commitment and harmony in Chinese culture. The female ducks are also unremarkable in colour while the males display vibrant plumage. This yin and yang harmony symbolises the union of unlikely halves, just like the pairing of coffee and milk tea!
Homemade Yuenyeung Coffee
(Credit: Wikimedia Commons)
Inside a Cha Chaan Teng
Cha Chaan Tengs and Yuenyeung
In post-Second World War Hong Kong, tea cafes became social hubs where people would gather with friends and family to have a chat and some fun over tea and food. These establishments - Cha Chaan Tengs - were known for their affordable prices, quick service, and a wide array of food and drink options. It’s at one of these Cha Chaan Tengs where Yuenteung was born and has grown to become a much-loved daily necessity for many.
Yuenyeung Coffee Today
Over the years, Yuenyeung Coffee has transcended its humble origins and gained international recognition. It has become a symbol of Hong Kong's vibrant culinary culture and a must-try beverage for visitors to the city. Yuenyeung Coffee is now readily available in cafes and restaurants around the world, allowing people from various cultures to savour the unique blend that embodies the spirit of Hong Kong.
Making Yuenyeung at home is relatively simple and requires only a few ingredients. Here is an easy recipe to brew Yuenyeung for two:
Yuenyeung Coffee Ingredients (2 servings)
- For Hong Kong Milk Tea
- 2 cups hot water (to brew tea)
- 5 tablespoons / tea bags of black tea (Ceylon Tea, but you could use Earl Grey or any of your favourite black teas - and any combination of them!)
- 3 cups (or 167 ml) evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon condensed milk
- 2 capsules of large espresso (Outback Roast or Blend Down Under)
- 1/2 to 1 cup ice (optional)
Yuenyeung Ingredients: Black Tea, Condensed Milk, Evaporated Milk, Strong Coffee
How to Make Yuenyeung Coffee
- Brew 1 cup extra strong coffee and set aside.
- Place hot water and tea into a pot and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for 5-7 mins depending on your desired balance of coffee and tea flavours
- Add evaporated milk and condensed milk. Mix until combined then remove from heat.
- Strain with a cheesecloth (preferred) or a strainer
- Add the espressos and mix well
- If having iced, fill a cup with ice.
- Pour in cups and enjoy!
Done brewing? It’s time to recycle and repurpose your used coffee capsules and coffee grounds.
Show us your creations with the hashtag #baristababa
You can experiment with different types of tea and coffee to find the perfect blend that hits the spot just right for you. You can also try adding different flavors such as vanilla or caramel to give your Yuenyeung a unique twist. Don't forget to share your unique recipe with others on our social media page and spread the love for this delicious Hong Kong-style drink!
