Can Dalgona Coffee Be Made with Ground Coffee?

Yes, but with a well-executed brewing technique, you can achieve a similar frothy texture to Dalgona coffee using ground coffee. This method, while slightly different from the traditional approach, offers a unique twist on the beloved Korean coffee craze.

Understanding the Traditional Recipe

The original Dalgona coffee recipe typically calls for instant coffee, sugar, and a small amount of water, which is then whisked vigorously to create a frothy mixture. For those wishing to use ground coffee, it's essential to adapt this technique for the best results.

Why Consider Ground Coffee? While the traditional recipe works wonderfully, some may prefer the richer flavor and texture of ground coffee. With slight modifications, you can still achieve the desired frothy texture and rich flavor.

Using Ground Coffee in Dalgona Coffee

To make Dalgona coffee with ground coffee, you should first brew a single shot of espresso. Brewing with ground coffee will give you a more concentrated, rich flavor, which can then be diluted with milk and whipped to create a frothy texture.

Key Ingredients and Equipment

Ground Coffee Sugar Water (for espresso) Milk A whisk or milk frother

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brew the Espresso: Use 2 tablespoons (about 15g) of ground coffee to make a single shot of espresso. Ensure your espresso is rich and flavorful. Whisk the Coffee Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons (30g) of sugar with the espresso. Whisk the mixture vigorously for 8-10 minutes or until it becomes light brown. This step is crucial for achieving the frothy texture. Prepare the Milk: Heat 3/4 cup of milk until it reaches a boil. Alternatively, you can use cold milk for a colder version. Combine and Serve: Pour the hot (or cold) milk into a glass or a cup. Then, serve it topped with the frothy coffee mixture.

Alternative Cold Version

You can also make a chilled version of Dalgona coffee by replacing the hot milk with cold milk and adding ice cubes. This creates a refreshing, frothy cold coffee that is perfect for hot days.

Conclusion

While the traditional Dalgona coffee recipe calls for instant coffee, you can certainly use ground coffee to create a similar frothy, rich flavor. By brewing a rich espresso, you can capture the full aroma and robustness of the ground coffee while still achieving the desired frothy texture.