Discovering South Indian Filter Coffee Powder in London: Where to Buy and How to Prepare

Looking to experience the rich flavors of South Indian filter coffee powder in London? This guide will help you find the perfect blend and tips on preparing it at home. Whether you're an aficionado or new to South Indian coffee, this comprehensive overview will guide you through the best places to source the finest quality coffee powder.

Where to Buy South Indian Filter Coffee Powder in London

Several options are available for finding South Indian filter coffee powder in London. Start by visiting several types of local stores, particularly those known for South Asian goods and communities:

Indian Grocery Stores

Locate Indian grocery stores located in areas with high concentrations of South Asian populations, such as Southall, Wembley, and Tooting. Major supermarkets like Sainsburys and Tesco might also carry popular brands. (Sainsburys, Tesco)

Specialty Stores

Explore stores specialized in South Indian products like Dosa Kitchen and Kerala Supermarket. These stores typically stock a range of authentic coffee powders. (Dosa Kitchen, Kerala Supermarket)

Tip: Popular brands to look for include Mysore Coffee and Brahmin’s Coffee for an authentic taste.

Online Retailers

For a wider selection, consider purchasing from online retailers like Amazon UK and eBay. (Amazon UK, eBay)

Local Markets and Food Festivals

Local farmers markets or food festivals may also feature South Indian vendors selling their own coffee powders. Check these out for unique and authentic blends.

Cafés and Restaurants

Visit South Indian restaurants, as some may sell their own coffee blends or offer recommendations on where to purchase authentic coffee powder.

Preparation Tips

Buying the right type of coffee powder is crucial for achieving the perfect South Indian filter coffee. Here are some guidelines:

Grinding and Coarseness

Choose coffee powder that is either fine or medium ground. Coarse coffee will result in a watery decoction and might require excessive powder, defeating the purpose. (Coffee Grinding Guide)

Recommendations: For London residents, the Lavazza red package (preferable in fine grained form) is highly recommended for its consistency. In India, Lavazza is favored but can be expensive. An alternative is the Cothas brand, which has been a staple in Bangalore for years.

Note: US brands like Planters are more acidic and are not well-suited for South Indian coffee. They are not recommended for this particular blend.

Online Options

For a broader range of options, consider ordering online. This can often provide more variety than what is available locally in London. (Online stores)

If you find these options not to your satisfaction, you might explore vendors in the East Ham area. East Ham has a notable South Indian community and specific stores like Sarvana Bhawan and South Indian grocery stores can be valuable sources for authentic coffee powders. (Sarvana Bhawan)

Conclusion

With these tips and resources, you should be able to find and enjoy the best South Indian filter coffee powder in or outside of London. Whether from a local store or online, make sure to select the right brand and grind for the perfect cup. Happy brewing!