Ingredients
- 6 cups water
- 1 cup Thai tea leaves
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon crushed cardamom pods
- ¼ teaspoon crushed cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ¼ cups white sugar
- 1 cup half-and-half, or to taste
- crushed ice, as needed
Why This Dish Is Hard To Resist
This drink is a perfect balance of bold tea flavors and creamy sweetness. It’s refreshing and comforting at the same time. The vibrant orange color also makes it fun to serve and enjoy anytime.
Cooking Techniques
- Use strong black tea to get that rich, deep flavor.
- Brew the tea longer than usual for a more intense taste.
- Sweeten while the tea is still hot so the sugar dissolves completely.
- Brew the tea longer than usual for a more intense taste.
- Sweeten while the tea is still hot so the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 1
Bring some water to a boil in a saucepan. Once it’s boiling, add the tea leaves along with the vanilla extract, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Take the pan off the heat, cover it, and let everything steep for about 15 minutes so the flavors can really come through.
Step 2
Strain the tea to get rid of the leaves and spices. While the tea is still warm, stir in the sugar until it’s completely dissolved. Pop it in the fridge and let it chill for a couple of hours.
Step 3
When you’re ready to serve, fill your glasses with crushed ice, pour the cold tea over the top, and finish each glass with a splash of half-and-half. Give it a little stir, and enjoy!
Serving Style Ideas
Serve over plenty of ice for a cool, refreshing treat. It pairs wonderfully with spicy or savory dishes, helping to balance bold flavors. Add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator in a sealed container. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for the freshest taste. Stir well before serving as ingredients may settle.
