Thai Iced Tea Drink is a delightful and refreshing beverage that has captured the hearts of many around the world. Originating from Thailand, this vibrant drink is not only a feast for the eyes with its striking orange hue but also a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The rich, creamy texture combined with the aromatic spices creates a unique experience that is both comforting and invigorating.

What I love most about Thai Iced Tea Drink is its versatility; it can be enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a sweet accompaniment to a spicy meal. The blend of black tea, sweetened condensed milk, and a hint of spices like star anise and cardamom makes it a favorite among those who appreciate a balance of sweetness and depth. Whether youre sipping it at a bustling street market in Bangkok or making it at home, this drink brings a taste of Thailand right to your kitchen. Join me as we explore the simple steps to create this beloved Thai Iced Tea Drink that will surely impress your friends and family!

Ingredients:

4 cups water
4 tablespoons Thai tea leaves (or 4 tea bags)
1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup evaporated milk
Ice cubes
Optional: Star anise or cardamom for added flavor

Preparing the Tea

1. **Boil the Water**: In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. I love using a kettle for this step, as it heats up quickly and efficiently. 2. **Add the Tea**: Once the water is boiling, remove it from the heat and add the Thai tea leaves or tea bags. If youre using loose tea, I recommend using a tea infuser or strainer to make the next steps easier. 3. **Steep the Tea**: Allow the tea to steep for about 5 to 7 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor will be. I usually go for around 7 minutes to get that rich, deep color and flavor. 4. **Strain the Tea**: After steeping, strain the tea into a large pitcher to remove the leaves or tea bags. If you used loose tea, make sure to press down on the leaves to extract all the flavor. 5. **Sweeten the Tea**: While the tea is still warm, add the sugar. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. This is a crucial step, as the warmth helps the sugar blend in smoothly.

Cooling the Tea

6. **Let it Cool**: Allow the sweetened tea to cool to room temperature. If youre in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process. I usually let it sit for about 30 minutes. 7. **Chill the Tea**: Once cooled, transfer the tea to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. This step is essential for that refreshing iced tea experience.

Preparing the Milk Mixture

8. **Combine the Milks**: In a separate bowl or pitcher, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk. I like to whisk them together until they are well combined and smooth. This mixture will give your Thai iced tea that creamy texture. 9. **Taste and Adjust**: Before you finish, take a moment to taste the milk mixture. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add a little more sweetened condensed milk.

Assembling the Thai Iced Tea

10. **Prepare the Glasses**: Grab your favorite tall glasses and fill them with ice cubes. I usually fill them to the top because I love my drinks super cold. 11. **Pour the Tea**: Carefully pour the chilled Thai tea over the ice, filling the glass about two-thirds full. The vibrant orange color of the tea is just beautiful! 12. **Add the Milk Mixture**: Gently pour the milk mixture over the tea. You can either pour it directly into the glass or drizzle it down the side for a lovely layered effect. 13. **Stir and Enjoy**: Give the drink a gentle stir to combine the tea and milk. I like to use a long spoon for this. Now, take a sip and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!

Optional Garnishes

14. **Add Flavor**: If you want to elevate your Thai iced tea even further, consider adding a star anise or a pinch of cardamom to the tea while its steeping. This will infuse a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the tea beautifully. 15. **Garnish**: For a fun presentation, you can garnish your drink with a sprig of mint or a slice of lime on the rim of the glass. It adds a nice touch and a pop of color!

Storing Leftovers

16. **Store the Tea**: If you have any leftover tea, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again, as the milk may separate. 17. **Recreate the Experience**: When youre ready to enjoy your leftover Thai iced tea, simply pour it over fresh ice and add a splash more of the milk mixture if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Thai Iced Tea

18. **Quality Tea**: The quality of the tea leaves you use can make a significant difference in flavor

Conclusion:

In summary, this Thai Iced Tea Drink is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a refreshing and flavorful beverage that perfectly balances sweetness and creaminess with a hint of spice. The vibrant orange hue and aromatic blend of black tea, spices, and sweetened condensed milk make it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re sipping it on a hot summer day or serving it at a gathering, this drink is sure to impress your friends and family. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Thai Iced Tea with some delicious Thai snacks like spring rolls or spicy chicken satay for a complete experience. You can also experiment with variations by adding different flavors, such as coconut milk for a tropical twist or a splash of vanilla extract for added depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, try infusing the tea with other spices like cardamom or star anise to create your own unique version. I encourage you to give this Thai Iced Tea Drink a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you added. Remember, the joy of cooking and mixing flavors is all about experimentation and sharing those delightful moments with others. So, grab your ingredients, brew that tea, and enjoy a glass of this delicious Thai Iced Tea Drink today! Print