How to Make Authentic Thai Tea: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thai tea, often referred to as Cha Yen in Thai culture, is a popular and distinctively flavored beverage, beloved for its rich and tangy taste. Whether you're preparing it cold or hot, there are specific steps and essential ingredients you must consider to achieve the authentic flavor. This guide will walk you through the process, so you can enjoy this delightful drink exactly as it is enjoyed in Thailand.

What You'll Need

Ingredients: Thumbs Up Thai Tea Mix (also known as Cha Samrit) Sweetened Condensed Milk (such as Nestle or Mali Jasmin) Sugar to taste Ice cubes or hot water for serving (depending on preference) Optional: Orange blossom water, star anise, tamarind seeds, and other spices for a more intricate flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Steeping the Tea: Measure out the required amount of Thumbs Up Thai Tea Mix based on the number of servings you wish to prepare. Thumbs Up comes in various flavors, with Cha Samrit being the premier brand for Thai tea. Boil water in a medium-sized pot to a rolling boil. Remove from heat once boiling. Add the tea mix to the hot water and let it steep for about 3-5 minutes. The steeping time may vary depending on the desired strength of the tea. Adding Sweetness: Add sugar to the tea mixture to taste. The sweetness should be similar to USA-style sweet tea. You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the sugar is completely dissolved. Adding Condensed Milk: Add an appropriate amount of sweetened condensed milk to the tea. Sweetened condensed milk is key to achieving the characteristic creamy and rich flavor of Thai tea. Stir the mixture well to combine the tea, sugar, and milk. This step will create a smooth and flavorful tea. Serving: If serving hot, pour the mixture into serving cups and add a small portion of ice to chill the drink slightly. If serving cold, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together more distinctly. Fancy Up the Flavor (Optional): Brew the tea with subtle spices like Orange blossom water, star anise, or tamarind seeds for a more elaborate and nuanced taste. Add sweet condensed milk or sugar syrup after brewing to achieve the desired sweetness level. For those with lactose intolerance, coconut milk can be used as a substitute for sweetened condensed milk to achieve a similar rich flavor.

Tips and Variations

Tips: It's important to use the correct tea mix, such as Thumbs Up, as using a different brand can significantly alter the flavor profile. Pre-mixed Thai teas available on Amazon or other online markets, such as Pantai, may contain some sugar, but it's best to confirm this before use. Thai tea is a 'to taste' kind of drink, so adjust the sweetness and richness to your liking.

Variations: Cha Yen, or cold Thai tea, is enjoyed during warm weather or in climates where it's hot. Prepare it by steeping the tea, adding sweetened condensed milk, and chilling before serving. For a hot preparation, brew the tea as described above and serve immediately with added ice for a refreshing sip. Incorporate other traditional Thai spices and flavors for a more complex and authentic taste.

Conclusion: Thai tea, whether served hot or cold, is a versatile and delicious beverage that offers a unique blend of flavors. By following these steps and tips, you can replicate the authentic taste of Thai tea in your home, allowing you to enjoy the drink just as it is cherished in your favorite Thai cafes.