If you visit Singapore or Malaysia, trying the local food and drinks is a must! One special experience is ordering tea or coffee at local coffee shops, called “kopitiams.”
You might hear some unusual terms at these places. Both countries have their own set of names for tea and coffee, which tell you about the ingredients and how they're served.
This article will help you understand these names, so you can order your drink just the way you like it at any kopitiam.
First up, let's break down the coffee terms you'll hear at a kopitiam. There are three main terms to remember:
The term "kopi" means a cup of black coffee mixed with condensed milk. This is what you'll typically get if you just ask for "coffee" without specifying anything else.
"Kopi O" is black coffee with just sugar, no milk. If you prefer your coffee black but sweet, then Kopi O is your go-to.
Kopi C is coffee with evaporated milk and sugar. It’s lighter in taste compared to regular kopi with condensed milk.
Now, let's cover the tea terms you'll hear at a kopitiam. Just like coffee, swap the word "coffee" with "tea" in these terms—the ingredients remain similar.
When you order "teh," you'll get tea mixed with condensed milk. It's similar to "teh tarik" but isn’t always frothed up.
"Teh O" is tea with sugar but no milk. It's a standard sweet tea that's popular worldwide.
"Teh C" blends tea with evaporated milk and sugar, giving it a subtler flavor compared to tea with condensed milk.
We've covered the basic tea and coffee terms. Now, you can combine these terms with others to adjust the ingredients. Here’s how:
"Kosong" means no sugar. For instance, "Teh O Kosong" is plain black tea without milk or sugar.
Adding "Peng" to your order means you want it cold with ice. For example, "Kopi Peng" is iced milk coffee. You can also say "ais" or "sejuk" for cold drinks.
"Siew Dai" indicates less sugar. For example, "Teh C Siew Dai" is tea with evaporated milk and less sugar. "Less sweet" works as an alternative phrase.
Use "Gao" to order a stronger drink. "Gao Coffee" means a richer and more intense coffee.
"Po" is the opposite of "Gao." It's for a lighter drink. "Po Tea" will get you a milder tea, ideal if you prefer less intensity.
With these terms, you'll be more confident ordering tea or coffee at a kopitiam in Singapore or Malaysia, ensuring you get exactly what you want!
