Thai Iced Tea, or Cha Yen, is a creamy, sweet, and refreshing beverage that’s a popular thirst-quencher in Thailand and loved around the world. This delicious drink combines the bold flavors of black tea with aromatic spices, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk, resulting in a unique and irresistible blend. Here’s how you can make it at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup Thai tea mix (available at Asian markets or online)
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk or coconut milk
- Ice cubes
Optional for Serving:
- Additional evaporated milk or coconut milk, for topping
Directions:
- Brew the Tea: In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Remove from heat and add the Thai tea mix. Let steep for about 5 minutes, or until the tea is a deep orange color and has a strong flavor.
- Strain and Sweeten: Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or tea cloth into a large pitcher, discarding the tea leaves. While the tea is still warm, stir in the sugar until completely dissolved. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.
- Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk (or coconut milk) until well combined.
- Assemble the Drink: Fill serving glasses with ice cubes. Pour the chilled tea over the ice, filling the glasses about 3/4 full. Top each glass with a generous amount of the milk mixture, stirring gently to create swirls if desired.
- Serve: Optionally, top each glass with a splash of additional evaporated milk or coconut milk for a creamier texture. Serve immediately with a straw.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 180 (Varies depending on the amount of sugar and type of milk used)
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
Servings:
- Serves: 4
Thai Iced Tea is a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful drink that’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day or enjoying as a special treat. Its combination of sweet, creamy, and spiced flavors makes it a favorite beverage that’s easy to customize to your taste.
