Thai iced tea is a sunny day essential, especially when paired with a spicy dish like pasta with peanut sauce or chicken curry. This sweet, spicy and creamy Thai tea recipe will become your go-to beverage. It’s commonly served in Thai restaurants, but we’re going to show you how to brew your own tea at home.
What Is Thai Tea?
Thai tea is made from strongly-brewed Ceylon black tea, enlivened with spices such as star anise, vanilla bean, crushed tamarind seed, orange blossom and cardamom. Its deep amber hue, creamy drinkability and vibrant notes make it a culinary gem.
The decadent drink is a hit in Southeast Asia and (thankfully!) growing traction in the States. If you’re a fan of Chai tea, you’ll most likely also love Thai tea.
Thai Tea Benefits
It’s no wonder humans all around the globe have been sipping tea for millennia—tea has tons of health benefits. Thai tea, in particular, does the body and mind good.
Increased Energy and Focus
Black tea, similarly to coffee and some sodas, contains caffeine, making it the perfect beverage for work and study sessions. The caffeine and antioxidants in Thai tea help boost your metabolism, so when you hit the gym, it can help you burn calories more quickly. Just be sure to still drink plenty of water!
Healthy Arteries
Drinking black tea expands your arteries, allowing them to pump blood more efficiently throughout the body. This can lessen the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Decreased Cancer Risk
Some studies have shown that drinking tea lessens the risks of many cancers. This is because black tea is full of antioxidants, which protect your cells against the damaging effects of free radicals.
Alleviated Stress
Tea helps soothe the body and mind. So, snuggle up in your coziest blanket, slip on your fuzziest socks and sip on some Thai tea—hot or iced—for instant bliss.
Thirsty for even more goodness? Indulge in these healthful drinks for a boost of nutrition.
How To Make Thai Iced Tea
Ingredients
Yields: 1 serving
- 4 Tbsp. Thai tea mix
- 2-3 tsp. sugar
- 1-2 tsp. condensed milk, whole milk, half and half or coconut milk
- Lemon wedge, for garnish
Step 1: Boil the Water
Bring one cup of water to a boil.
Step 2: Steep the Tea
Submerge the tea mix into the boiling water with a strainer or tea filter and steep for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Sweeten and Serve
Add the sugar and milk. Give it a good stir and serve in a tall glass over ice. Add a slice of lemon to the rim. Sip slowly and savor the flavor.
Editor’s Tip: You can make a large batch of Thai iced tea in advance and store it in the refrigerator to enjoy at any time. After the second step, carefully pour the tea into a large mason jar or covered pitcher and place it in the fridge to cool. When you’re ready to enjoy a glass, pour the tea over ice, then add the sugar and milk.
Next, learn how to make sweet tea like a Southerner.
Enjoy Your Thai Iced Tea with One of Our Favorite Thai Recipes
My husband loves the spicy Thai flavors in this speedy, simple dish and often breaks out the chopsticks for a more immersive experience. — Jennifer Fisher, Austin, Texas
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Ceara Milligan
