What is Thai Tea?

Thai tea (ชาเย็น, cha yen) is a traditional thai tea drink typically served cold over ice. It is made from a strong brew of black tea, sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, and topped with evaporated milk or half and half for a creamy finish. The result is a rich, sweet, and refreshing beverage enjoyed as a treat or alongside spicy Thai food.

Thai Tea Ingredients: What Is in Thai Iced Tea?

The base of thai iced tea is usually a blend of black tea leaves, sometimes mixed with spices like star anise, cardamom, and cloves. The signature color comes from food coloring added to commercial thai tea mix. Here are the typical ingredients for thai tea:

• Thai tea mix or black tea leaves
• Sugar
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Evaporated milk or half and half
• Ice

Some recipes add spices for extra aroma, and you may also find versions using coconut milk or whole milk as alternatives.

How to Make Thai Iced Tea

If you’re wondering how to make thai tea or looking for a thai iced tea recipe, the process is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on the most popular methods:

1. Brew the Tea: Combine thai tea mix or black tea leaves with boiling water. Steep for 3–5 minutes for a strong, aromatic brew.
2. Add Sugar: Stir in sugar while the tea is hot to dissolve completely.
3. Strain the Tea: Use a fine mesh strainer or a tea sock to remove the leaves and any small particles.
4. Cool the Tea: Let the tea cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge.
5. Serve Over Ice: Fill a glass with ice, pour in the tea, and top with sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk or half and half. Stir to combine and enjoy!

For a more detailed thai iced tea recipe with exact measurements, see White On Rice Couple’s guide.

Thai Milk Tea vs. Thai Iced Tea

Thai milk tea is essentially the same as thai iced tea, with the main difference being the type and amount of milk used. In Thailand, milk tea thai is often made with sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk, while in Western countries, half and half or whole milk may be used.

Regional Variations: Thailand Milk Tea and Street Vendor Style

In Thailand, thailand milk tea (cha yen) is prepared by mixing the brewed tea with sweetened condensed milk, then pouring it over ice and topping with evaporated milk. Street vendors may use canned milks for convenience and shelf stability. In the U.S., thai iced tea is often topped with half and half for extra creaminess.

What’s in Thai Tea?

If you’re specifically asking whats in thai tea or what is in thai iced tea, the answer is:

• Black tea (often with food coloring and flavorings)
• Sugar
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Evaporated milk or half and half
• Sometimes, spices like star anise, cardamom, and cloves

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Thai Tea Healthy?

Thai tea is high in sugar and calories due to the sweetened condensed milk and added sugar. It’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat.

Can I Make Thai Tea Without Dairy?

Yes! You can use coconut milk or other plant-based milks to make a dairy-free version.

How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?

The amount of sugar and condensed milk can be adjusted to taste. Some recipes recommend adding extra sugar for a sweeter American-style version.

Related Thai Tea Drinks and Recipes

• thai tea drinks include both hot and cold versions, as well as creative variations like Thai tea lattes and Thai tea bubble tea.
• recipe for thai iced tea and recipe for thai milk tea are widely available and easy to adapt at home.
• thai tea ingredients and thai iced tea ingredients can be found at Asian grocery stores or online.
• what is thai iced tea made of is a common question-see the ingredient list above for details.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a fan of the classic thai iced tea, want to try making your own thai tea recipe at home, or are simply curious about what is in thai iced tea, the process is simple and the ingredients are easy to find. With its unique blend of strong tea, creamy milk, and sweet flavor, Thai tea remains a favorite drink for many around the world.