Thai Tea Dream

This Thai Iced Tea, also known as "cha yen" in Thailand, is a creamy and aromatic beverage made from scratch with a blend of black tea, aromatic spices, and sweetened milk. It is a delightful and refreshing drink that perfectly balances the flavors of tea, spices, and creamy sweetness. Enjoy the authentic taste of Thai iced tea with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Thai Tea Dream

A creamy and aromatic Thai iced tea made from scratch with black tea, spices, and sweetened milk, providing a delightful and refreshing beverage experience.

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Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Total Time 10 mins

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons loose-leaf black tea
  • 1 piece star anise
  • 2 pods cardamom
  • 1/2 cinnamon stick (optional)
  • 1/8 vanilla bean (optional)
  • Ground tamarind (to taste, optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 teaspoons evaporated milk (or coconut milk or whole milk)

Instructions

  1. Combine the loose-leaf black tea, star anise, cardamom, cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, tamarind powder, and almond extract (if using) in boiling water. Steep for 5 minutes.
  2. Strain the brewed tea through a fine mesh sieve, removing the tea leaves and spices.
  3. Stir in sugar and sweetened condensed milk until fully dissolved.
  4. Fill a tall glass with ice and pour the tea over it, leaving some space at the top for the evaporated milk.
  5. Add more ice if needed and drizzle each glass with 1 teaspoon of evaporated milk.