Can You Use Ground Coffee in Dalgona Coffee?

Whether you have fresh ground coffee or instant coffee, you can make delicious Dalgona coffee. While instant coffee is already a brewed, concentrated form of coffee, regular ground coffee can also be used, provided you follow the correct steps.

The key to achieving a perfect Dalgona coffee is in the preparation process. For those without instant coffee, you can use fresh ground coffee that has been filtered to remove all sedimentation. This process not only ensures a clean taste but also allows you to control the strength and flavor of your coffee before it's prepared.

Preparing Filtered Ground Coffee

Start by brewing your coffee using a coffee kettle or any other method you prefer. Once you have your strong coffee extract, filter it to remove any remaining grounds or sediment. This step is crucial to ensure that your final Dalgona coffee is smooth and free of particles.

Whipping Your Coffee

After filtering, the next step is to boil the filtered coffee. This helps to further concentrate the flavor while making it easier to whip. Add sugar to taste and boil for a few minutes more, stirring occasionally. The process of boiling concentrates the coffee and allows you to add more sugar if needed.

Once the coffee is boiled and concentrated, you can start whipping it up. The method for whipping is the same as used by bakers and confectioners to create meringue-like foam. Whisk the coffee vigorously until it forms a thick, frothy peak. This may take slightly longer than what is required for instant coffee due to the higher water content.

Whipped to perfection, your frothy coffee is now ready to be topped. Pour the whipped coffee into a glass, then add your choice of milk. You can also sprinkle sugar or coffee powder on top to add an extra flavor layer.

Alternative Options

For those who cannot find instant coffee, Greek coffee might be an alternative. Greek coffee is ground incredibly fine, similar to flour. It can be combined with water to create a foam-like texture, making it a possible substitute for Dalgona coffee. However, the foam formed from Greek coffee may not have the same behavior as regular Dalgona coffee. It's worth a try if you're adventurous, but you may need to adjust your expectations slightly.

Key Points to Remember:

Filter your coffee: Remove all sediment to ensure a smooth taste. Concentrate the coffee: Boil the coffee extract to thicken the flavor. Whip vigorously: Create a thick, frothy peak similar to meringue. Alternative options: Greek coffee can be used, but the results may vary.

With the right preparation method, you can enjoy a rich and frothy Dalgona coffee using fresh ground coffee. Experiment with different brewing techniques and adjustments to find the perfect taste for you.