11 Time-Tested Secrets to Authentic South Indian Filter Coffee

9. Perfect the Coffee-to-Milk Ratio Balance

Once the decoction is ready, the final cup depends on the decoction-to-milk ratio. Typical shop standards range from 1:2 (one part decoction to two parts milk) for a strong cup to 1:4 for a milder drink. For a single serving, try one full tablespoon (15 ml) of decoction to 30–45 ml of hot milk as a starting point, then adjust. If you prefer stronger flavor, use more decoction or less milk; for an iced version, make the decoction stronger by a step and pour over chilled milk and ice to avoid over-dilution. Keep measurement tools handy—a small glass measuring cup helps you replicate exactly. When serving guests, ask if they want “strong” or “regular.” Consistent ratios let you reproduce a favorite cup without guessing each time.