What is Thai Tea?
Thai Tea, also known as "Cha Yen" (which translates to cold tea), is a delicious Thai iced tea notable for its vibrant orange colour and unique aromas. Traditional Thai Tea is made from strong black tea (typically Assam or Ceylon), often spiced with star anise, cardamom, and cinnamon. It is sweetened with sugar and condensed milk and served chilled over ice as a refreshing beverage. How does it differ from the popular Bubble Tea? While Bubble Tea is often served with tapioca pearls, Thai Tea focuses on a harmonious blend of black tea, spices, and sweetened milk.
What Does Thai Tea Taste Like?
The taste of Thai Tea is an aromatic blend of robust black tea, smooth vanilla notes, and spices like anise and cardamom. The addition of condensed milk provides a velvety texture and a pleasing sweetness that perfectly complements the intense spices. Let's embark on a culinary journey through Thailand and discover how you can make this sweet iced tea at home!
Thai Tea Ingredients (makes about 2-3 glasses)
- 600 ml water
- 8 teaspoons Thai tea leaves (or 4 black tea bags, such as Ceylon or Assam)
- 60 g sugar
- 100 ml condensed milk
- 100 ml whole milk or coconut milk (for a vegan option)
- Plenty of ice cubes
- Optional spices: 2 star anise, 1 cardamom pod, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Thai Tea?
Step 1: Prepare the Tea Infusion
Start by boiling the water in a pot. Add the tea leaves or black tea bags. For extra aroma, add star anise, broken cardamom pods, and the cinnamon stick to the pot. Allow the tea mixture to simmer for 5-10 minutes so the spices can develop their rich flavours.
Step 2: Sweeten the Tea
After straining the tea, add the vanilla extract and sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let the tea cool for at least 1 hour.
Step 3: Serve the Thai Tea
Place ice cubes in glasses. Pour the cooled tea over the ice, leaving some space in the glass. In a separate glass, mix the condensed milk and whole milk (or coconut milk) and gently pour it over the tea. Stir briefly and enjoy!
