Delicious Thai Tea from Scratch: Easy Recipe Guide

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Experience the rich, aromatic blend of spices that make Thai tea a beloved beverage.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness and creaminess to suit your taste, making it perfect for everyone.
• Refreshing Treat: Enjoy it over ice for a cool, refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful drink in no time!

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Thai Tea from Scratch! If you’ve ever sipped on this vibrant, sweet, and spiced beverage, you know it’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience! Imagine the warm embrace of spices dancing on your palate, the creamy texture soothing your senses, and the refreshing chill of ice making it the perfect companion for any day. Whether you’re lounging at home, hosting a gathering, or simply treating yourself, this homemade Thai tea will elevate your beverage game to a whole new level. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into the delightful process of crafting this beloved drink right in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 6 Black Tea Bags
• 2½ cups Water
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (optional)
• 2 pieces Star Anise
• 1 tablespoon Whole Cardamom
• 1 Cinnamon Stick
• ¼ piece Vanilla Bean
• 2 teaspoons Ground Turmeric
• 2 tablespoons Sugar (coconut palm sugar recommended)
• ¼ cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
• 2 tablespoons Evaporated Milk or Whole Milk

Detailed Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Tea Base: In a medium pot, combine the black tea bags, water, vanilla extract (if using), star anise, whole cardamom, cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, and ground turmeric. This aromatic blend is the heart of your Thai tea!
2. Simmer the Mixture: Heat the pot over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Once it reaches a gentle simmer, lower the heat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Strain the Tea: After simmering, carefully strain the tea mixture to remove the spices and tea bags. You want a smooth, flavorful liquid that’s ready to be enjoyed!
4. Prepare the Iced Tea: Fill two glasses with ice. Pour the freshly brewed tea over the ice, filling the glasses to your desired level.
5. Make the Creamy Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk (or whole milk) until smooth. This creamy concoction is what makes your Thai tea indulgent!
6. Combine and Garnish: Pour the milk mixture over the iced tea in each glass. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves. Now, sit back and enjoy your homemade Thai tea!

Different Ways to Present and Serve Thai Tea

Thai tea is not just a drink; it’s a visual delight! Here are some fun ways to present and serve your Thai tea:

• Layered Presentation: For a stunning visual effect, pour the milk mixture slowly over the back of a spoon to create a layered look. This way, the creamy milk floats on top of the vibrant orange tea.
• In a Mason Jar: Serve your Thai tea in mason jars for a rustic, charming presentation. Add a colorful straw for a fun touch!
• With a Twist: Experiment with flavors by adding a splash of coconut milk or a hint of almond extract for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Garnish Creatively: Besides mint leaves, consider garnishing with edible flowers or a slice of lime for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve with Snacks: Pair your Thai tea with traditional Thai snacks like spring rolls or coconut sticky rice for a complete experience.

How to Store Thai Tea and Its Shelf Life

If you find yourself with leftover Thai tea, don’t worry! Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigeration: Store the brewed tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-5 days.
• Milk Mixture: Keep the milk mixture separate in the fridge, and it will also last for about 3-5 days. Just give it a good stir before using it again.
• Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the brewed tea in ice cube trays. You can use these cubes in smoothies or as a base for future Thai tea!

FAQs

1. Can I use loose leaf tea instead of tea bags? Yes, you can! Just use about 2 tablespoons of loose black tea and strain it after brewing.
2. Is it possible to make Thai tea without sugar? Absolutely! You can omit the sugar or use a sugar substitute to suit your dietary needs.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk instead of evaporated or sweetened condensed milk.
4. What if I don’t have star anise or cardamom? You can skip them or substitute with other spices like cloves or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
5. How can I make my Thai tea stronger? Simply increase the brewing time or add an extra tea bag for a bolder flavor.
6. Can I serve Thai tea hot? Yes! Just skip the ice and enjoy it warm, adding the milk mixture directly to the hot tea.
7. What’s the best way to sweeten my Thai tea? Coconut palm sugar is recommended for an authentic taste, but you can use any sweetener you prefer.
8. Can I add other flavors to my Thai tea? Definitely! Try adding a splash of orange juice or a hint of ginger for a unique twist.
9. Is Thai tea gluten-free? Yes, the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
10. How can I make a larger batch of Thai tea? Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, and follow the same brewing process!