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Authentic Thai Iced Tea

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A quick and easy recipe for authentic Thai iced tea with a perfect balance of aromatic spices and creamy sweetness, ideal for a refreshing drink on hot days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons black tea leaves (Assam or Ceylon recommended)
  • 2 whole star anise pods
  • 3 crushed cardamom pods
  • 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cups (950 ml) water
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) evaporated milk
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) sweetened condensed milk
  • Ice cubes
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon tamarind extract
  • Optional: a few drops orange food coloring

Instructions

  1. Boil 4 cups (950 ml) of water in a saucepan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
  2. Add 4 tablespoons black tea leaves, 2 star anise pods, and 3 crushed cardamom pods to the boiling water. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  3. Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup sugar until fully dissolved. If using, add tamarind extract and orange food coloring. Let the tea steep off heat for another 10 minutes, then strain through a fine mesh strainer into a heatproof container.
  4. Allow the strained tea to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour the chilled tea about three-quarters full, then gently pour 1/2 cup evaporated milk and 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk on top. Stir lightly to create swirls and serve immediately.

Notes

Use strong black tea like Assam or Ceylon for best flavor. Avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness. Dissolve sugar while tea is hot for smooth sweetness. Chill tea thoroughly before serving for best refreshment. Pour milk gently over ice to maintain creamy swirl effect. For dairy-free version, substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai iced tea, authentic Thai tea, iced tea recipe, Thai beverage, sweet tea, spiced tea, creamy iced tea