Kopi O Peng
Hawker • Singapore
About Kopi O Peng
Iced black coffee with sugar
How to Make Kopi O Peng (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kopi O Peng is a beloved iced black coffee that is a staple at any Singaporean kopitiam (coffee shop). This refreshing beverage is part of the vibrant hawker culture that defines Singapore’s food scene, enjoyed by locals as a daily pick-me-up. Kopi O Peng gets its name from the Hokkien dialect: 'Kopi' means coffee, 'O' refers to black (without milk), and 'Peng' means iced. Traditionally brewed with robusta beans roasted with sugar and margarine, this beverage boasts a unique, bold flavor with a hint of caramelized smokiness. A glass of Kopi O Peng is perfect for Singapore’s tropical climate, offering a cooling and energizing treat, especially during hot afternoons. It reflects the island’s multicultural heritage, blending Chinese brewing methods with Malay and Indian influences found in hawker centres. With increasing health awareness, this version uses less sugar and opts for plant-based sweeteners, making it suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets. Kopi O Peng is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural icon, evoking nostalgia and a sense of community across generations in Singapore.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (approx. 250ml) per serving)
- 4 tablespoons Robusta coffee beans (freshly ground preferred, local kopitiam style)
- 500 ml Hot water (just off the boil)
- 2 teaspoons Raw cane sugar (or adjust to taste; locally known as 'gula pasir')
- 2 cups Ice cubes
- 1-2 teaspoons Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (as a healthier alternative (optional)) - optional
- A pinch Salt (enhances flavor, optional) - optional
- as needed Filtered water (for rinsing coffee sock) - optional
- 1 Coffee sock filter (traditional method, or use a fine sieve)
Instructions
- 1
Boil water until just off the boil (about 95°C). Rinse the coffee sock filter with hot water to remove any residual flavors and preheat it.
5 minutes
Rinsing the filter ensures a clean, pure coffee flavor.
- 2
Add the ground robusta coffee into the coffee sock or fine sieve placed over a large jug.
2 minutes
Use freshly ground beans for maximum aroma.
- 3
Slowly pour hot water over the coffee grounds in a circular motion, allowing the coffee to drip through. Let it steep for 2-3 minutes.
5 minutes
Pouring slowly extracts optimal flavor and body.
- 4
Add raw cane sugar (or sweetener) and a pinch of salt (optional) to the brewed coffee. Stir thoroughly until dissolved.
3 minutes
Dissolve sugar while coffee is hot for even sweetness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Kopi O Peng recipe uses less sugar and offers plant-based sweetener options, reducing overall calorie and carbohydrate intake. By avoiding condensed milk and using robusta beans, you get the full-bodied coffee experience without excess fats or artificial additives. It’s a hydrating, energizing beverage that fits well into most balanced diets, especially for those watching their calorie and sugar intake.
Kopi O Peng is low in fat and, when sweetened moderately or with plant-based alternatives, contains fewer calories compared to creamy beverages. Coffee is rich in antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid, which can support metabolic health. The absence of dairy makes it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals and those on vegan diets. Consuming iced coffee in moderation provides a gentle energy boost, with minimal sugar keeping it within a health-conscious framework.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use freshly ground robusta beans for the most authentic kopitiam flavor.
- 💡Adjust sweetness to your taste and dietary needs with plant-based sweeteners.
- 💡Chill glasses in advance for a longer-lasting, icy cold Kopi O Peng.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed fresh. Brewed coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours without ice. Add ice only when serving to prevent dilution.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 95.0 kcal |
| Protein | 1.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
