Cha Yen (Thai Iced Tea)
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- Thai tea mix (loose leaf or bagged) — 4 tbsp
- Hot water — 1 L (4 cups)
- Sweetened condensed milk, plus extra to taste — 4 tbsp
- Ice cubes, to serve
- Evaporated milk, to serve — 120 ml (1/2 cup)
Method
- Steep the Thai tea mix in the hot water for 5 minutes, then strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof jug, discarding the leaves.
- While the tea is still hot, stir in the condensed milk until fully dissolved.
- Let the sweetened tea cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until well chilled.
- Fill tall glasses with ice, and pour the chilled tea over the ice, leaving room at the top.
- Slowly pour a layer of evaporated milk over the back of a spoon on top of each glass for a layered effect, or stir it in for a simpler presentation.
- Serve immediately with a straw or spoon for stirring.
Introduction: Cha yen, with its distinctive bright orange colour and creamy finish, is one of Thailand's most iconic drinks,
made from strongly brewed Thai tea sweetened and served over ice with a generous pour of condensed
and evaporated milk poured over the top.
Cultural Background: Cha yen, with its distinctive bright orange colour and creamy finish, is one of Thailand's most iconic drinks,
made from strongly brewed Thai tea sweetened and served over ice with a generous pour of condensed
and evaporated milk poured over the top.
Tips: Brew the tea while hot so the condensed milk dissolves smoothly, then chill it before serving over ice. Pouring the evaporated milk slowly over the back of a spoon creates the classic two-toned layered look.
Variations: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less condensed milk to taste. Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk for a dairy-free finishing pour. Vegetarian as written; use a plant-based condensed and evaporated milk for a vegan version.
Storage: Refrigerate the brewed, sweetened tea (without ice or milk) in a covered jug for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Not applicable — always served cold.
FAQs:
Q: What is Thai tea mix?
A: A blend of strongly brewed black tea, often with added spices and orange food colouring, giving cha yen its distinctive bright orange hue; available at Asian grocers.
Q: Can I make my own Thai tea blend?
A: Yes, strongly brewed black tea with a pinch of star anise can approximate the flavour, though it won't have the same signature colour without the traditional mix.
Q: How sweet should it be?
A: Traditionally quite sweet, though the condensed milk can be reduced to taste.
- Thai tea mix (loose leaf or bagged) — 4 tbsp
- Hot water — 1 L (4 cups)
- Sweetened condensed milk, plus extra to taste — 4 tbsp
- Ice cubes, to serve
- Evaporated milk, to serve — 120 ml (1/2 cup)
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