How to Make Authentic Thai Tea at Home
Thai Tea, with its rich amber color and distinctively creamy flavor, is one of Thailand’s most iconic drinks. Often served chilled over ice, this traditional Thai beverage has become a global favorite in cafés and restaurants. But did you know that you can easily make authentic Thai Tea at home with just a few simple ingredients? In this blog, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to making Thai Tea that tastes just as delicious as the one you’d find on the streets of Bangkok. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or enjoy a refreshing treat on a hot afternoon, this homemade Thai iced tea recipe is for you.
What is Thai Tea?
Thai Tea, known locally as "Cha Yen," is a sweetened, spiced brewed tea with milkthat is typically served over crushed ice. It is made from strongly brewed black tea infused with spices such as star anise, cardamom, and sometimes tamarind. Sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk gives it its signature creamy texture and sweet taste.
You can find pre-blended Thai Tea mixes in stores, but for the most authentic flavor, sourcing high-quality loose tea leaves or trusted mixes like those fromZawaa Foodsis highly recommended. Zawaa Foods offers premium Thai Tea blends that are crafted to deliver traditional taste and aroma.
Ingredients Youll Need
To make Thai Tea at home, gather the following ingredients:
2 tablespoons Thai Tea mix (or loose black tea with spices)
1 cup boiling water
1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
1 tablespoon evaporated milk (or whole milk/plant-based alternative)
Ice cubes or crushed ice
Optional: a pinch of ground star anise or cardamom for added spice.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Thai Tea
1. Brew the Tea
Start by adding your Thai Tea mix to a heat-proof container. Pour boiling water over the tea leaves and let them steep for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors and color to fully develop. For stronger tea, steep up to 10 minutes.
Tip: Using a Thai Teafilter sock or fine mesh strainer helps separate the leaves from the liquid easily.
2. Sweeten the Tea
After brewing, strain the tea into another container. While its still hot, stir in the sugar. This will dissolve quickly and help balance the spices in the tea. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
3. Add the Milky Goodness
Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and give it a good stir. This is what gives Thai Tea its creamy texture and signature sweetness. For a layered look, pour the condensed milk slowly and let it settle at the bottom of the glass.
Add a splash of evaporated milk (or regular/plant-based milk) on top for extra creaminess and a beautiful orange-and-white gradient.
4. Serve Over Ice
Fill a tall glass with ice and pour your tea over it. Top it off with a swirl of evaporated milk. Serve with a straw and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Homemade Thai Iced Tea
Use High-Quality Tea: The flavor of your tea depends heavily on the quality of the tea mix. We recommend using Zawaa Foods premium Thai Tea blendfor the best results.
Control Sweetness: Adjust the sugar and milk levels to your liking. Some prefer a stronger tea flavor, while others enjoy a creamier, sweeter drink.
Try Dairy-Free Options: Coconut milk or oat milk can be great substitutes for those who are lactose-intolerant or vegan.
Variations to Try
Thai Tea Boba: Add tapioca pearls to turn your Thai Tea into a fun bubble tea.
Thai Tea Ice Cream: Use the brewed tea base to create a frozen dessert.
Iced Thai Green Tea: Substitute the black tea mix with Thai green tea for a refreshing twist.
Why Choose Zawaa Foods for Thai Tea?
When it comes to making authentic Thai Tea, the source of your ingredients matters. Zawaa Foodsspecializes in traditional blends that honor the original flavors of Thailand. Their tea mixes are crafted with carefully selected leaves and spices, ensuring every cup is full of richness, aroma, and quality.
Whether you are an experienced tea lover or new to Thai beverages, Zawaa Foods makes it easy to enjoy a caf-quality drink from the comfort of your home.
Final Thoughts
Making Thai Tea at home is a delightful experience that brings the flavors of Thailand right to your kitchen. With its vibrant color, fragrant spices, and creamy finish, this traditional Thai beverageis perfect for any occasionfrom casual afternoons to festive gatherings.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, brew a cup, and taste the magic of homemade Thai Tea. And for the most authentic flavor, dont forget to check out the Thai Tea blends from Zawaa Foodsyour go-to brand for premium tea products.
