How to Make Authentic Thai Tea
Thai tea is a spicy and sweet beverage that is popular in both Southeast Asia and with lovers of Asian cuisine around the world. Whether you’d like to drink it iced or hot, here’s how to make authentic Thai tea from scratch.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons of Thai tea leaves – These are specially blended for Thai tea, which contains a combination of black tea, spices such as cardamom, star anise, and vanilla, and sometimes food coloring.
- 4 cups of boiling water – Boiling water will produce the most flavorful tea.
- 4 tablespoons of white granulated sugar – Or adjust according to your preference.
- 1/4 cup of half-and-half – This is optional, and you can use more or less depending on your preference as well.
- Ice (only if you are making iced Thai tea) – As much as you need.
Instructions
- Add the tea leaves: Put the tea leaves into a French press or tea strainer.
- Pour in the boiling water: Slowly pour the boiling water into the French press or strainer.
- Set aside to steep: Allow the tea to steep for at least 5 minutes.
- Strain: Use a spoon to press down on the tea leaves, then pour the tea into a glass or cup through a strainer or cheesecloth.
- Add sugar: Stir in the white granulated sugar.
- Add the half-and-half: If desired, stir in the half-and-half.
- (optional) Add the ice: If making iced Thai tea, top your glass off with ice.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Thai tea! It is best to use freshly brewed tea, but if you have leftovers, you can store it in the fridge for up to a week.
