Oliang Recipe: Authentic Thai Iced Black Coffee You’ll Love
If you’ve ever wandered through a Thai morning market, you’ve probably smelled it — the rich, toasty aroma of freshly brewed Oliang (โอเลี้ยง) wafting through the air.
This classic Thai iced black coffee is bold, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic — the perfect pick-me-up on a hot tropical day.
Unlike regular iced coffee, Oliang has a unique flavor profile thanks to its blend of coffee and roasted grains, giving it a smooth, slightly nutty, and smoky taste.
🌿 What Is Oliang?
The word “Oliang” (โอเลี้ยง) comes from the Teochew Chinese word “O” (black) and “Liang” (cold) — literally “black cold drink.”
It reflects Thailand’s long-standing Chinese influence in street food culture.
Oliang is traditionally brewed using a “sock filter” (ถุงกาแฟ) — a cloth strainer shaped like a long pouch — to slowly drip the coffee mixture into a metal pot.
Street vendors usually serve it in a plastic bag with ice, tied with a rubber band and a straw, or poured into tall metal cups for takeaway.
☕ Ingredients
For one large glass of Thai Iced Black Coffee, you’ll need:
-
3 tablespoons Oliang coffee mix (available from brands like ChaTraMue or Pantai)
-
1 cup hot water (240 ml)
-
2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
-
1 teaspoon sweetened condensed milk (optional)
-
Ice cubes or crushed ice
👩🍳 How to Make Oliang
-
Brew the coffee
-
Add the Oliang mix to hot water.
-
Stir well and let it steep for 5 minutes.
-
Strain using a fine sieve or cloth filter for a smooth texture.
-
-
Sweeten it
-
While still warm, stir in sugar (and condensed milk if desired).
-
Mix until fully dissolved.
-
-
Cool it down
-
Let the coffee cool to room temperature or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.
-
-
Serve over ice
-
Fill a tall glass with crushed ice.
-
Pour the coffee over and enjoy chilled!
-
💡 Tips for the Perfect Oliang
-
For authentic flavor, use Thai-style coffee blend — it often includes roasted corn, soybeans, or sesame for depth.
-
For a richer version, add evaporated milk or condensed milk, creating “Oliang Yen” (iced coffee with milk).
-
Want a modern café twist? Add brown sugar syrup and a touch of sea salt cream on top.
-
Pair it with Thai breakfast snacks like Patongo (fried dough sticks) or Khanom Pang Ping (grilled butter bread).
🌞 Why Oliang Stands Out
Oliang represents Thailand’s love for strong, sweet, and satisfying flavors — a bridge between traditional Chinese coffee culture and modern Thai street life.
It’s affordable, energizing, and unmistakably local — every sip feels like a taste of Bangkok mornings.
✨ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a coffee lover or just exploring Thai beverages, Oliang (โอเลี้ยง) is a must-try.
Its bold flavor, roasted aroma, and nostalgic street vibe make it more than just a drink — it’s a piece of Thailand’s everyday charm.
So next time you crave iced coffee, skip the espresso machine and try authentic Thai Iced Black Coffee — simple, strong, and refreshingly unique. ☕🇹🇭