Madras Filter Coffee | Indian Coffee Recipe – Cookilicious

For an authentic Madras Filter Coffee experience, choose the grounds specifically meant for South Indian brewing. The most popular blends are made from Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, with or without chicory.
Some of the best South Indian coffee brands that we have tried and are available in the US include Panduranga, Narasus, Udhayam, Kalmane, and Cothas. If you have access to Indian grocery stores, you can also find these brands locally. You can also find it on Amazon or get it from India. Additionally, Café du Monde New Orleans-style ground coffee with chicory is a great alternative for those looking for a similar taste profile.
Experiment with different brands, ratios, and proportions to find the perfect combination that suits your palate! Avoid instant coffee powder, as it won’t work for this traditional brewing method.

After brewing the first decoction, you can reuse the grounds to make a second batch. Simply add half the quantity of hot water to the used grounds. However, keep in mind that this second decoction will be thinner and milder, which may slightly alter the taste and thickness of your kaapi.
If you prefer a strong and robust cup, it’s best to use fresh grounds each time. Otherwise, if you don’t plan on making a second decoction, simply discard the residue.

To enjoy a vegan version of South Indian Filter Coffee, simply swap dairy milk with soy milk or oat milk. These plant-based options complement the coffee’s bold flavors while maintaining a creamy texture.
For the best results, use plain, unsweetened varieties to keep the flavor authentic. You can also experiment with almond, cashew, or coconut milk to find the one you like best. When preparing, heat the milk but do not boil it, as plant-based milk can sometimes separate when overheated.
Enjoy your dairy-free Filter Kaapi with the same rich taste and signature frothy top!

For the best flavor, freshly brewed decoction is always ideal, but if you have leftovers, you can store it properly to extend its usability. The decoction can be left on the counter overnight, covered, so it’s ready to use in the morning. If needed, it can stay at room temperature for a day, provided it remains covered to preserve its aroma. While refrigeration is an option, storing decoction in the fridge for longer duration may cause it to lose some of its rich flavor. If refrigerated, gently reheat it before use, but avoid excessive boiling as it may alter the taste.
If you have leftover prepared coffee, you can reheat and drink it, though nothing beats the taste of freshly made Filter Kaapi. Instead of wasting excess decoction, get creative with it! You can use it to make Coffee Cheesecake, similar to Chai Cheesecake, or add it to chocolate-based dessert recipes that call for espresso, like Chocolate Brownie, Brownie Milkshake, or Chikoo Milkshake. It also makes a great base for a refreshing Cold Coffee.
To keep your ground coffee fresh, store it in an airtight, dark canister at room temperature or in the fridge. This helps preserve its aroma and flavor.

If you don’t have a South Indian coffee filter, there are several alternative ways to brew Madras Filter Kaapi. The key is to use finely powdered coffee without chicory, as it works best for these methods.
1. Using a Sieve or Muslin Cloth
One of the simplest ways to make it without a filter is by using a fine sieve. Start by placing coarsely ground coffee in a bowl, using about 1-2 tablespoons per cup. Bring water to a boil, let it cool slightly, and pour it over the grounds. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Then, strain the decoction through a fine sieve or muslin cloth into another container, and use it as needed.
2. Restaurant-Style Cheesecloth Method
In restaurants, where large batches of decoction are needed, kaapi is often brewed without a filter. Instead, they pass the coffee through a cheesecloth, allowing the decoction to drip into a large vessel. This method can be easily replicated at home by tying ground coffee in a clean cheesecloth, pouring hot water over it, and letting the decoction collect in a container below.
3. Using a French Press
A French Press can also be used as an alternative brewing method. First, pour a little boiling water into the French Press and discard it—this preheats the container. Next, add 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of coffee powder, pour in boiling water, and stir gently to agitate the grounds. Let it steep for about 3 minutes, then slowly press the plunger down. Use this as decoction.
4. Using a Paper Filter or Espresso Machine
Another option is to use a paper filter (such as a pour-over method) or even an espresso machine to brew the decoction.
Disclaimer: While these methods won’t perfectly replicate the taste of Madras Filter Coffee, they can work as alternatives when a traditional filter isn’t available. I haven’t personally tried these methods, but they are commonly suggested alternatives. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for you!

Yes. Since the decoction is thick, you’ll need to dilute it with hot water to suit your taste. To make it without milk, simply pour the decoction into a cup, add hot water, and adjust the decoction–to-water ratio based on your preference. You can also choose to add or skip sugar as desired.
For the best black coffee experience, it’s recommended to use coffee without chicory, as chicory adds a slight bitterness and thickness, which may not be ideal when making it black.

The Madras Filter Coffee machine is essential for making authentic South Indian Kaapi. Depending on the size of your filter, add the right amount of ground coffee and water. I have used a small filter in this recipe. Always use a clean South Indian filter for the best results. After use, to clean it, soak the filter in boiling water and use a sharp needle to clear any blockages in the filter holes, ensuring they remain unobstructed for smooth percolation.
If you have a large filter, you can brew for 4 people, while a smaller filter is ideal for brewing for 2 people.