Start your day fresh with the best Korean instant coffee. I’ll tell you a secret – the way to my heart is through a good cup of coffee. Like me, I’m sure many of you start your day with a cup of coffee. In fact, I’m sipping on my favorite Korean coffee.
And of course, nothing can beat good quality brewed coffee.
But you know what? Korean instant coffee comes close. On days when I am running out the door in a hurry and need an instant pick me up, I turn to my favorite Korean Instant Coffee.
Best Korean Instant Coffee – Quick Summary
| Best Korean Instant Coffee Brands | Best Korean Instant Coffee | Link |
| Ediya Coffee | Ediya Coffee Beanist Mild Americano | Check price On Amazon |
| Maxim Coffee | Maxim Coffee Mocha Gold | Check price On Amazon |
| Maxim White Gold Instant Coffee | Check price On Amazon | |
| Mayang Coffee | Namyang Coffee French Cafe Latte | Check price On Amazon |
| Kanu Coffee | Kanu Instant Coffee Mini Dark Roasted Coffee | Check price On Amazon |
| maxim Coffee | Maxim Ice Coffee | Check price On Amazon |
| Namyang Coffee | Namyang Lookas 9 Vanilla Latte Instant Coffee | Check price On Amazon |
| Kanu Coffee | KANU Tiramisu Latte | Check price On Amazon |
| Kanu Coffee | Kanu Mini Decaffeined Coffee | Check price On Amazon |
Which is the best Korean instant coffee?
As a coffee lover, I was more than willing to try several Korean instant coffee brands. I rated the different Korean instant coffee based on flavor, creaminess, quality, caffeine level, and ease of preparation. I found that Maxim White Gold Instant Coffee is best Korean instant coffee and here’s why:
Maxim White Gold Instant Coffee has an amazing flavor. Most instant coffee is either too watery or sweet but Maxim White Gold Instant Coffeehas the perfect blend of coffee, fat-free milk and xylose sugar in a sachet. It has a flavorful creamy texture that is not too sweet. It has a delicious aroma to complement its flavor.
Top Korean Instant Coffee 2023
Who buys 100 sticks of Korean instant coffee? Me pic.twitter.com/dmz7obGxYs
— Cera ????☕️???? Astarion handholder (@ArisannaHime) May 18, 2019
How To Choose The Best Korean Instant Coffee
How To Choose The Best Korean Instant Coffee Korean coffee culture is renowned worldwide, and for good reason. Their coffee is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious properties that make it great for both the body and mind.
Korean instant coffee has become very popular for those who are always on-the-go or prefer a quick and easy cup without the hassle of brewing.
When choosing the best Korean instant coffee, it’s essential to consider your individual taste preferences. If you love your coffee bold and rich, then look for instant coffee that is made from robusta beans.
On the other hand, if you prefer a milder taste, arabica beans are the way to go. It’s also essential to take into consideration the roasting level; darker roast provides a bolder and earthy flavor, while a lighter roast will have a more citrus and floral taste.
Read the labels and packaging when choosing your instant coffee; some may have additives or fillers that you may want to avoid.
Lastly, don’t forget to try out different brands to find your perfect match. Korean instant coffee comes in different varieties, including black coffee, iced coffee, and special blends. Let your taste buds do the talking and experiment with different brands until you find your perfect cup.
Types Of Coffee In Korea
Types Of Coffee In Korea As a coffee lover, exploring the different types of coffee in Korea was a highlight of my trip. Korean cafes are prolific and cater to all tastes, so it’s easy to find a cozy spot to try out new brews.
One of the most popular coffee types in Korea is the sweet and creamy Dalgona coffee. Made with whipped instant coffee, sugar, and warm milk, it’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth. If you prefer something with a nutty flavor, then try the Kkaejung-nyeo.
This coffee comes with a handful of peanuts or almonds on top of a shot of espresso, making it both delicious and filling. If you’re looking for something a little different, then consider the sweet potato latte.
This flavorful coffee is made with mashed sweet potato, milk, and espresso. It might sound like a strange combination, but the result is surprisingly good.
Overall, Korean coffee culture is unique and worth exploring. So, if you’re a coffee lover like me, make sure you add a few Korean cafes to your itinerary when visiting the country.
How To Make Korean Instant Coffee
Making Korean instant coffee is a simple and convenient process. The most common type of Korean instant coffee is the 3-in-1 coffee mix, which typically includes coffee, creamer, and sweetener all in one packet. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Korean instant coffee:
Ingredients:
- Korean instant coffee packet (3-in-1 mix or single coffee sachet)
- Hot water (about 6-8 ounces or 180-240 ml)
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Equipment:
- Boil water to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature for making coffee is around 195-205°F (90-96°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, simply let your boiled water cool for a minute or two after boiling.
- Open the Coffee Packet:
- Tear open the Korean instant coffee packet or sachet. Inside, you’ll typically find the coffee powder along with creamer and sweetener.
- Empty the Packet:
- Pour the entire contents of the packet into your coffee cup or mug.
- Add Hot Water:
- Carefully pour the hot water into the cup over the coffee mixture. Be sure not to overfill your cup; leave some space at the top for stirring.
- Stir Thoroughly:
- Use a spoon to thoroughly stir the coffee mixture and hot water. Make sure all the coffee, creamer, and sweetener are well dissolved.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the coffee and adjust the sweetness and creaminess to your preference. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, you can add more coffee from another packet.
- Enjoy:
- Your Korean instant coffee is ready to enjoy. You can serve it hot, but if you prefer iced coffee, simply let it cool down and add ice cubes. You can also experiment with variations like adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or a drop of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Remember that the exact preparation process may vary slightly depending on the brand and type of Korean instant coffee you are using. Some brands may offer variations like black coffee with no creamer or sweetener, so be sure to check the packaging for specific instructions. Making Korean instant coffee is a convenient way to enjoy a quick and flavorful coffee experience.
Korean Instant Coffee: History
When King Gojong, the last king of Joseon Dynasty went into hiding in Seoul at the Russian Legislation during the Korean invasion by the Japanese, he first learnt about coffee. This was in 1896.
After the war ended in Korea, the coffee industry boomed with coffee shops opening in the capital. The first company in Korean to sell instant coffee by selling instant coffee sticks that were premixed with coffee, cream, and sugar. This was in 1976.
This gave the people to have the luxury of coffee in their homes or offices. Instant coffee in Korean got extremely popular by the 90s since it was affordable and quick to make.
Coffee was introduced in Korea though the last king of the Joseon Dynasty, King Gojong. The King had to go into hiding at the Russian legation in Seoul while the Japanese army was invading Korea. At the Russian legation the King first learned to drink coffee in 1896.
After the Korean war, the coffee industry started to take off, with exclusive coffee shops opening all around the capital. This was a place for businessmen, students and artists to gather.
Dongsuh Foods was the company in Korea which introduced instant coffee to the country by selling mix sticks (coffee, sugar and cream) in 1976. This moved coffee from the expensive coffee shops to the homes and offices.
By the end of the 1990s, South Korea became the largest consumer of instant coffee in the world with approximately 75% of the Korean population was drinking instant coffee on a regular basis as it was very affordable and readily available.
Ediya Coffee Beanist Mild Americano
I recently had the pleasure of trying the Ediya Coffee Beanist Mild Americano, and I must say, it’s become a new favorite in my coffee rotation. As someone who appreciates a balanced and smooth cup of coffee, this blend really hit the mark for me.
Right from the first sip, I was impressed by the mellow yet rich flavor profile. The mildness of the coffee doesn’t compromise on taste; it maintains a lovely depth that’s perfect for those who prefer a less intense but still flavorful coffee experience. The notes of the coffee bean come through beautifully, offering a delightful and well-rounded taste.
One of the standout features of the Mild Americano is its smoothness. The coffee goes down effortlessly, making it a comforting choice for any time of the day. I also appreciate the convenience of having the perfect balance of coffee and water, ready to enjoy without any additional steps.
However, if you’re someone who enjoys a stronger kick of caffeine, you might find this blend a tad too mild for your taste. Also, while the convenience is fantastic, it might not replace the ritual of brewing coffee from scratch for those who love the process.
In summary, the Ediya Coffee Beanist Mild Americano is an excellent option for anyone who values a smooth, flavorful, and hassle-free coffee experience. Its mildness doesn’t compromise on taste, making it a versatile choice whether you’re easing into your morning or taking a moment to unwind in the afternoon.
Pros:
- Smooth and mellow flavor profile
- Well-rounded taste with pleasant coffee bean notes
- Convenient and hassle-free preparation
- Perfect for those who prefer a less intense coffee experience
Cons:
- Might be too mild for those who enjoy stronger coffee
- Lacks the brewing ritual for coffee enthusiasts
Key Features:
- Contains pure coffee
- No additives to sweeten it
- Smooth taste, not very bitter
Pros:
- True coffee flavour, without the addition of sweeteners or creamers
- Can add the amount of sugar that you prefer, if you wish
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
Related: Best Korean Yuzu Tea
Maxim Coffee Mocha Gold
I recently had the pleasure of indulging in a cup of Maxim Coffee Mocha Gold, and it was nothing short of a delightful coffee experience. As a coffee lover who appreciates a touch of sweetness and a dash of chocolate in my brew, this blend exceeded my expectations.
From the moment I opened the packaging, the rich aroma of coffee and cocoa wafted up, teasing my senses and setting high expectations. The first sip did not disappoint. The Mocha Gold delivers a perfect harmony of coffee and chocolate flavors. The coffee base is robust and satisfying, while the subtle notes of cocoa add a deliciously sweet dimension without overwhelming the brew.
What’s truly remarkable about Maxim’s Mocha Gold is its convenience. It’s a 3-in-1 coffee mix, meaning it combines coffee, creamer, and sugar in a single packet. This makes it an excellent choice for those rushed mornings or when you’re craving a comforting coffee but don’t want to go through the hassle of measuring ingredients.
However, if you prefer your coffee less sweet or with a specific type of milk or creamer, the pre-mixed nature of this coffee might not be ideal. Also, for those who appreciate a purely black coffee experience, the sweetness of Mocha Gold might be too pronounced.
In summary, Maxim Coffee Mocha Gold is a delicious and convenient option for coffee lovers who enjoy the delightful combination of coffee and chocolate in their cup. It’s perfect for those on the go or anyone who appreciates the ease of a 3-in-1 coffee mix.
Pros:
- Rich and harmonious blend of coffee and cocoa
- Convenient 3-in-1 mix with coffee, creamer, and sugar
- Perfect for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their coffee
Cons:
- Not customizable in terms of sweetness or type of creamer
- May not suit those who prefer purely black coffee
Key Features:
- Contains 50 mg caffeine
- Has 2 grams of sugar
- Contains milk powder
- Can be consumed hot or cold
- Comes in slim sachets that are easy to carry in a purse or handbag
Pros:
- A well balanced instant coffee mix
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
Maxim White Gold Instant Coffee
For those who love the taste of coffee, but like the texture to be rich and creamy, I suggest Maxim’s White Gold Instant Coffee. When compared to the Mocha Gold by the same brand, this coffee is slightly sweeter, contains a creamer and has a thicker feel.
Key Features:
- One stick of coffee makes one cup of coffee (about 110 ml)
- Contains coffee beans that are roasted using the SPR method
- Contains fat free milk cream and xylose sugar for sweetening the coffee
- Can add hot water for regular coffee or hot milk for richer coffee
Pros:
- Has just the right amount of sugar, making the coffee not too sweet
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
Namyang Coffee French Cafe Latte
Namyang coffees always have a special flavour added and this is what makes them popular. Latte is always considered to be something that is difficult to achieve because you need a milk frother and the technique to make it.
Namyang’s range of lattes make it so simple to have your luxurious drink at home! The French cafe Latte is a medium strength coffee that has a bitter sweet taste and a creamy texture.
Key Features:
- Contains high quality coffee with minimum sweetness
- Has a rich creamy texture
- Well balanced flavours
- Convenient to carry in a bag as it comes in single serve sticks
Pros:
- An easy to prepare latte at home
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
Kanu Instant Coffee Mini Dark Roasted Coffee
Kanu is a sub brand of the popular Maxim brand of coffees but has a range that is very unique. Kanu instant coffees come in plenty of different flavours and degrees of roasts that you must definitely try.
I prefer stocking up on the Mini Dark Roasted Coffee by Kanu for those days when I crave a lot of coffee but in small quantities. Aren’t Korean coffees amazing – they cater to every kind of desire!
Key Features:
- High quality coffee is extracted by micro grinding procedure at very low temperatures to retain the rich and original taste
- Has a subtle smoky flavour
- Dark roasted coffee
Pros:
- Makes a strong flavoured coffee
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
Maxim Ice Coffee
Once in a while, especially during the hot summer afternoons, I like a cup of iced coffee to cool me down as well as wake me up.
Maxim’s Instant Iced Coffee mix really comes to my rescue on such days. I dissolve a stick of this coffee into ice cold water and voila!~ my drink is ready. My tip- add some ice cubes to enhance your experience and feel like you are sitting in a cafe.
Key Features:
- Contains a blend of coffee, sugar and non-dairy creamer
- Easily dissolves in cold water
- Has a rich coffee taste
- Comes in single serve sticks for convenience
Pros:
- Excellent iced coffee pre mix
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
Namyang Lookas 9 Vanilla Latte Instant Coffee
Coffee is more than just coffee for Koreans. There are lots of flavours added and coffee is almost considered a sweet treat. Namyang’s Vanilla Latte Instant Coffee is proof of that with its delicious Vanilla flavour. The texture is creamy and it froths up as you stir, exactly the way latte is supposed to be!
Key Features:
- Contains a blend of coffee, sugar, creamer and vanilla flavouring
- One cup of hot water is needed for one stick of coffee
- Dissolves quickly, giving you fresh and delicious instant coffee
- Comes in sticks of single serve quantity for easy preparation
Pros:
- An instant coffee mix that can satisfy sweet cravings
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
KANU Tiramisu Latte
I have just one word to describe Kanu’s Tiramisu flavoured latte – YUM! This hot coffee is absolutely delicious with the bitter sweet taste of the popular dessert. There are pretty strong tones of mocha, mascarpone cheese and rich espresso incorporated this instant coffee.
Key Features:
- Contains a high quality espresso flavour that is derived by mirco grinding the beans at -196C
- Has added cocoa flavour and mascarpone cheese flavour to bring out the Tiramisu flavour
- Rich and creamy texture with the increase in milk and creamer
- Comes in single serve sticks for quick preparation and convenience for carrying during travel
Pros:
- A specialty coffee that can be relished as a dessert
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
Kanu Mini Decaffeined Coffee
I admit, I’m addicted to coffee. (You must have figured that out by now). I appreciate good coffee, just the smell of coffee draws me to it.
Having said that, it’s difficult (even for me) to drink more that 2 or 3 cups a day, but there are some days that demand it – you know what I mean? For such days, I love a good decaf that will still satisfy me but not keep me up until 3 am.
Kanu’s Mini Decaffeined Coffee is perfect for that as each sachet is less than 1 gram and makes about half a cup of coffee. Just perfect!
Key Features:
- Decaffeinated coffe
- Comes in mini sachets, each measuring less than 1 gram
- Has the full flavour of coffee without the caffeine
- Medium roasted beans
Pros:
- Comes with the rich flavour of Americano, though it is decaf
Check out this best Korean instant coffee below!
How To Make Korean Instant Coffee
Making Korean instant coffee is a simple and convenient process. The most common type of Korean instant coffee is the 3-in-1 coffee mix, which typically includes coffee, creamer, and sweetener all in one packet. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Korean instant coffee:
Ingredients:
- Korean instant coffee packet (3-in-1 mix or single coffee sachet)
- Hot water (about 6-8 ounces or 180-240 ml)
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Equipment:
- Boil water to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature for making coffee is around 195-205°F (90-96°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, simply let your boiled water cool for a minute or two after boiling.
- Open the Coffee Packet:
- Tear open the Korean instant coffee packet or sachet. Inside, you’ll typically find the coffee powder along with creamer and sweetener.
- Empty the Packet:
- Pour the entire contents of the packet into your coffee cup or mug.
- Add Hot Water:
- Carefully pour the hot water into the cup over the coffee mixture. Be sure not to overfill your cup; leave some space at the top for stirring.
- Stir Thoroughly:
- Use a spoon to thoroughly stir the coffee mixture and hot water. Make sure all the coffee, creamer, and sweetener are well dissolved.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the coffee and adjust the sweetness and creaminess to your preference. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, you can add more coffee from another packet.
- Enjoy:
- Your Korean instant coffee is ready to enjoy. You can serve it hot, but if you prefer iced coffee, simply let it cool down and add ice cubes. You can also experiment with variations like adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or a drop of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Remember that the exact preparation process may vary slightly depending on the brand and type of Korean instant coffee you are using. Some brands may offer variations like black coffee with no creamer or sweetener, so be sure to check the packaging for specific instructions. Making Korean instant coffee is a convenient way to enjoy a quick and flavorful coffee experience.
Korean Instant Coffee: History
When King Gojong, the last king of Joseon Dynasty went into hiding in Seoul at the Russian Legislation during the Korean invasion by the Japanese, he first learnt about coffee. This was in 1896.
After the war ended in Korea, the coffee industry boomed with coffee shops opening in the capital. The first company in Korean to sell instant coffee by selling instant coffee sticks that were premixed with coffee, cream, and sugar. This was in 1976.
This gave the people to have the luxury of coffee in their homes or offices. Instant coffee in Korean got extremely popular by the 90s since it was affordable and quick to make.
Coffee was introduced in Korea though the last king of the Joseon Dynasty, King Gojong. The King had to go into hiding at the Russian legation in Seoul while the Japanese army was invading Korea. At the Russian legation the King first learned to drink coffee in 1896.
After the Korean war, the coffee industry started to take off, with exclusive coffee shops opening all around the capital. This was a place for businessmen, students and artists to gather.
Dongsuh Foods was the company in Korea which introduced instant coffee to the country by selling mix sticks (coffee, sugar and cream) in 1976. This moved coffee from the expensive coffee shops to the homes and offices.
By the end of the 1990s, South Korea became the largest consumer of instant coffee in the world with approximately 75% of the Korean population was drinking instant coffee on a regular basis as it was very affordable and readily available.
Korean Instant Coffee Brands: FAQs
Why is Korean coffee so popular?
Korea is a coffee drinking country and most Koreans grew up drinking different varieties of instant coffee. This is a drink that is readily available and affordable and that’s what makes it so popular. Almost every place in Korea, be it offices, grocery stores, train and bus stations, restaurants and homes stock up on Korean coffee sachets.
Is Korean Instant Coffee Bad For You?
Korean Instant coffee is simply regular coffee that is already brewed and dehydrated. This has the same benefits as freshly brewed coffee. In fact, research has discovered that some Korean instant coffee varieties have more antioxidants than brewed coffee.
What coffee is popular in South Korea?
In South Korea, a study was conducted on Starbucks customers to find out what’s the most popular coffee drink was. Americano was voted as the most popular coffee drink followed by latte. When it comes to coffee brands in Korea, Maxim instant coffee brand is the most popular Korean instant coffee brand.
Does South Korea have good coffee?
Even though Korea does not cultivate coffee, the cafe culture in South Korea is very popular. Many cafes in Korean have their own roastery to ensure the best tasting coffee.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of coffee has expanded far beyond traditional brewing methods, and Korean instant coffee has emerged as a global favorite. In this article, we’ve explored some of the best Korean instant coffee options available, each offering its unique blend, flavor, and convenience. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast seeking a quick caffeine fix or a busy individual on the go, Korean instant coffee has something to offer.
From the rich and bold flavors of traditional instant coffee to innovative 3-in-1 coffee mixes that combine coffee, creamer, and sweetener, there’s a Korean instant coffee for every palate. Additionally, the growing popularity of Korean coffee culture has led to the development of premium, artisanal instant coffee options that rival the quality of freshly brewed cups.
When choosing the best Korean instant coffee for your taste, consider factors like flavor profile, roast level, convenience, and any special dietary preferences or requirements. Remember that personal preference plays
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