A simple tweak to how you prepare instant coffee could make it taste as good as a café drink, without needing to buy anything extra. The trick, shared on Instagram by Brandon Yang, involves adding a splash of cold water to the coffee granules before pouring in boiling water.
The Simple Step That Changes the Flavour
Brandon explained that the usual method of adding boiling water directly to instant coffee can burn the granules, resulting in a bitter and tart taste. Instead, he recommends putting the instant coffee in a cup, adding a little cold water first, and swirling it to mix before topping up with boiling water.
He said: "The normal way to make instant coffee is to take your instant coffee, put it in your cup, and then add boiling water. We're not going to do that. What you're going to do is take your instant coffee, put a little bit of water in there first, swirl it around so it dilutes and mixes all together, and then you're going to add your boiling water."
Why It Works and What People Say
Pouring a small amount of cold tap water before the boiling water prevents the granules from burning, producing a smoother, less bitter brew. Commenters who tried the method confirmed the improved taste, with one saying: "It's true, I've been doing this for years." Another added: "I thought I was the only one who did this. I get called weird for doing this."
For those who take milk, the cold water can be swapped for milk to equally prevent scorching, leaving a creamy cup at the same price.
How to Make Instant Coffee With This Method
Ingredients: 1 tsp instant coffee, sugar (optional), boiling water, cold water or milk. Method: add the instant coffee to a mug, add sugar if using, add a splash of cold water or milk and mix thoroughly, top up with boiling water, add more milk if needed, and serve.
