Calas, Powdered Sugar and Filter Coffee

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

1. 1

   Add the granulated sugar and cornstarch to a high-speed blender or spice grinder.

2. 2

   Secure the lid tightly.

3. 3

   Blend on the highest setting for 30-60 seconds, or until a very fine, fluffy powder forms.

4. 4

   Let the dust settle for a minute before opening the lid to avoid a sugar cloud.

5. 5

   Transfer the freshly made powdered sugar to an airtight container.

6. 6

   Store at room temperature until ready to use.

Ingredients

• 8 tbsp Filter Coffee Powder (A blend with 15-20% chicory is recommended for authentic taste)
• 250 ml Water (For brewing the decoction)
• 750 ml Full-Fat Milk (Provides a rich and creamy texture)
• 6 tsp Sugar (Adjust to personal preference)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Coffee Filter

   • Assemble the two chambers of the South Indian coffee filter, placing the perforated upper chamber on top of the lower collection chamber.
   • Add 8 tablespoons of filter coffee powder into the upper chamber, distributing it evenly.
   • Gently press the powder down using the provided tamper disc. The pressure should be firm but not overly compact.
   • Place the tamper disc on top of the coffee grounds.
2. 2

   Brew the Decoction

   • Bring 250 ml of water to a full, rolling boil in a kettle or pot.
   • Carefully and slowly pour the boiling water over the tamper disc, filling the upper chamber.
   • Cover the filter with its lid and set it aside. Allow the coffee decoction to slowly drip into the lower chamber, which typically takes 10-15 minutes.
3. 3

   Heat and Prepare the Milk

   • While the decoction is brewing, pour 750 ml of milk into a saucepan.
   • Heat the milk over medium heat until it is steaming hot and just beginning to rise, but do not let it boil over. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. 4

   Combine, Froth, and Serve

   • Once the decoction has fully collected, pour about 60 ml (1/4 cup) into each of the 4 serving tumblers.
   • Add 1.5 teaspoons of sugar to each tumbler, or adjust to your desired sweetness.
   • Pour the hot milk into each tumbler over the decoction and sugar.
   • To create the signature froth, pour the coffee back and forth between the tumbler and a 'davara' (a wide steel bowl) from a height of about one foot. This process is called 'pulling'. Repeat 3-4 times until a thick, creamy froth forms on top.
   • Serve immediately while hot and frothy.