What is Thai Milk Tea?
Thai milk tea, known in Thailand as “cha yen,” is a sweet, creamy, and aromatic beverage that has gained popularity worldwide. Recognized for its distinct orange hue, this tea is commonly served over ice and is a staple in Thai restaurants and street stalls. Its unique taste comes from a combination of strong brewed tea, dairy, and sweeteners, making it a refreshing drink that pairs well with spicy Thai cuisine.
Ingredients and Preparation
The foundation of Thai milk tea is a robust black tea, often a blend of Assam or Ceylon tea leaves. Some variations include added spices such as star anise, cardamom, tamarind, and even vanilla, which enhance its rich flavor profile. The tea is brewed to be strong, often steeped for a longer time than traditional black teas to create a more concentrated flavor. Once brewed, it is sweetened generously with sugar and sweetened condensed milk, which gives it its signature richness and slight caramel undertones. To achieve its signature creaminess, the tea is typically finished with evaporated milk or coconut milk before being poured over ice.
The bright orange color of Thai milk tea often comes from food coloring added to commercially available Thai tea blends. While this is not essential to the flavor, it has become a recognizable characteristic of the drink. Some homemade versions skip the food coloring and rely solely on the natural deep brown hue of brewed black tea.
Variations and Customization
Thai milk tea can be adjusted to suit personal preferences. Some people prefer it with less sugar for a more robust tea flavor, while others enhance its sweetness with honey or additional condensed milk. There’s also a growing trend of making Thai milk tea with alternative milk options, such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk, for a dairy-free version. These alternatives still provide a creamy texture but may slightly alter the taste profile.
Additionally, Thai milk tea is sometimes served with tapioca pearls, similar to bubble tea, adding a fun chewy texture to the drink. Some variations replace the traditional black tea with green tea or Thai coffee for a different take on the classic recipe. For those who enjoy an extra layer of indulgence, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, aromatic touch to the drink.
In Thailand, street vendors often serve Thai milk tea in a plastic bag with a straw, making it easy to carry around. This unique presentation is part of its charm, though in other parts of the world, it’s commonly served in large plastic cups or glassware with ice cubes.
Caffeine Content and Enjoyment
While Thai milk tea contains caffeine, the amount varies based on the type of tea leaves used and the brewing time. On average, an 8-ounce serving contains between 30 to 60 mg of caffeine, making it a middle ground between coffee and traditional green tea. This makes it a great option for those looking for a moderate caffeine boost without the intensity of an espresso or a strong coffee.
Thai milk tea is best enjoyed as a refreshing treat, especially on hot days. It complements spicy and savory dishes, balancing out bold flavors with its creamy sweetness. Many people enjoy it alongside classic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, spicy curries, or Thai fried rice, as its cooling effect helps counteract the heat from chilies.
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