When traveling in Malaysia, “White Coffee” is a must-try delicacy. While it has gained attention in Japan recently, its history, taste, how to enjoy it, souvenir information, and its origin and birthplace are surprisingly not well known.
This article provides a detailed explanation of Malaysia’s famous White Coffee.
Malaysia’s Specialty “White Coffee”: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Origin, Taste, How to Enjoy It, and Souvenirs!
What is White Coffee?
White Coffee is a unique type of coffee that originated in Malaysia. Unlike regular coffee, it is roasted with margarine or other fats after roasting, resulting in a mellow and rich flavor.
History and Origin
The origin of White Coffee dates back to the early 20th century in Ipoh, a city in Perak state, Malaysia. At that time, Chinese immigrants imported coffee beans from Indonesia and roasted them using their own methods. In the process, they accidentally stir-fried the beans with margarine, giving birth to a coffee with a mellow taste.
Subsequently, White Coffee spread in popularity, centered in Ipoh, and became a beloved national beverage throughout Malaysia.
The Birthplace of White Coffee
The birthplace of White Coffee is Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong (香南茶餐室). It is located on the way from Ipoh’s Old Town towards the Indian Quarter. It’s found within a local Chinese hawker center, common in Malaysia, and since other stalls serve Chinese noodles and rice, it doesn’t have the atmosphere where you can leisurely enjoy coffee like in a cafe. A hot white coffee costs 2.3 Malaysian Ringgit (as of July 2024).
The Origin of the Name “White Coffee”
There are several theories about the origin of the name “White Coffee,” but there is no definitive explanation.
- From its appearance: One theory suggests it was named “White Coffee” because brewed white coffee has a lighter, whiter color than regular coffee.
- From its taste: Another theory proposes it was called “White Coffee” because it has less bitterness and a mellower taste than regular coffee.
- From its production method: A third theory suggests it was named “White Coffee” because it is stir-fried with margarine or other fats after roasting.
Characteristics of White Coffee
- Mellow and rich flavor: White Coffee is characterized by its less bitter, mellow, and rich taste compared to regular coffee.
- Unique aroma: Stir-frying with margarine creates a distinct buttery aroma.
- Lower caffeine content: Generally, White Coffee is said to have less caffeine than regular coffee.
- Wide variety: In recent years, various types of White Coffee are available, some with added flavors like cocoa or nuts.
How to Enjoy White Coffee
- Savor it straight: To fully enjoy its mellow taste, it’s recommended to drink White Coffee straight.
- Add condensed milk: Adding condensed milk makes it even mellower and sweeter.
- Drink it chilled: Chilling it in the refrigerator makes it refreshing, perfect for hot days.
- Pair with sweets: White Coffee is also recommended to enjoy with sweets like cakes or cookies.
Savoring White Coffee in Malaysia
If you want to enjoy White Coffee during your trip to Malaysia, the following places are recommended:
- Ipoh: As the birthplace of White Coffee, Ipoh offers a variety of White Coffee experiences.
- OldTown White Coffee: This is Malaysia’s most famous White Coffee chain. You can enjoy various types of white coffee here.
- Local Cafes: Many local cafes serve White Coffee.
- Hawker Stalls: White Coffee can also sometimes be found at Malaysian hawker stalls.
White Coffee Souvenirs
How about White Coffee as a souvenir from your trip to Malaysia? It’s sold in various places like supermarkets and airports.
- Instant White Coffee: An instant type that allows you to easily enjoy white coffee.
- Drip Bag White Coffee: Drip bag types are easy to brew.
- Canned White Coffee: Canned white coffee is convenient for carrying.
- Gift Sets: Gift sets that include white coffee and a mug are also recommended.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s specialty, White Coffee, is characterized by its mellow and rich flavor. It’s highly recommended to visit Ipoh, its birthplace, to enjoy the authentic taste. With various theories about its name, it’s a coffee with profound charm. Why not give it a try during your trip to Malaysia?
