Spiced Iced Tea

Authentic Spiced Iced Tea Recipe from Thailand

Region / culture: Thailand | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spiced Iced Tea is a refreshing and flavorful beverage that combines the bold flavors of Thai tea leaves with aromatic spices like cardamom and clove. This unique twist on traditional iced tea is perfect for hot summer days or as a special treat any time of year.

History

Spiced Iced Tea has its roots in Thai cuisine, where tea is often brewed with a variety of spices to create a rich and complex flavor profile. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Thai tea recipes, but adds a modern twist with the addition of half-and-half for a creamy finish.

Ingredients

6 cups of water
Thai tea leaves
4 green cardamom pods
1 whole clove
0.25 tsp of ground cinnamon
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 cup of half-and-half

How to prepare

Crush the cardamom pods and set them aside.
Crush the whole cloves and set them aside.
Bring the water to a boil, then stir in the tea.
Add the crushed cardamom pods and cloves, then remove from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes.
Pour the mixture through a strainer, then add sugar and stir until dissolved. Let it cool.
Chill the mixture for two hours, then serve it over crushed ice.
Top it with 3 tbsp of half and half.

Variations

For a dairy-free option, substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or almond milk.
Add a splash of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor.
Experiment with different spices like star anise or nutmeg for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to crush the cardamom pods and cloves before adding them to the tea mixture to release their full flavor.

- Let the tea mixture cool completely before serving over ice to ensure a refreshing and chilled beverage.

- For a stronger spice flavor, let the tea mixture steep for longer before straining.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spiced Iced Tea over crushed ice for a refreshing and cooling beverage. Pair with spicy or savory dishes for a balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Spiced Iced Tea is to let the tea mixture steep with the spices for a few minutes to infuse the flavors. Be sure to strain the mixture before chilling to remove any solid pieces.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Thai tea leaves, you can use black tea or green tea for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount of sugar to taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the tea mixture ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to stir well before pouring over ice.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spiced Iced Tea in tall glasses with a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon for a beautiful and refreshing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Spiced Iced Tea pairs well with spicy or savory dishes like curry or grilled meats. The creamy texture of the half-and-half complements bold flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spiced Iced Tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving over ice.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spiced Iced Tea contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spiced Iced Tea contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spiced Iced Tea contains approximately 3 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Spiced Iced Tea contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spiced Iced Tea is a good source of antioxidants from the tea leaves and spices, which can help support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Spiced Iced Tea contains dairy from the half-and-half, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Spiced Iced Tea is a refreshing and flavorful beverage that is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those looking for a lighter drink option.

Summary

Spiced Iced Tea is a delicious and unique beverage that combines the bold flavors of Thai tea leaves with aromatic spices for a refreshing and satisfying drink. Enjoy this flavorful twist on traditional iced tea for a special treat any time of year.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon a quaint little tea shop nestled in the heart of the bustling city. As I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly brewed teas enveloped me, filling my senses with a sense of calm and tranquility.

I was greeted by a friendly older woman who introduced herself as Mrs. Jenkins, the owner of the shop. She had a kind smile and a twinkle in her eye that hinted at a lifetime of wisdom and experience. As we chatted, I couldn't help but notice the array of different teas lining the shelves, each one more enticing than the last.

Mrs. Jenkins must have sensed my curiosity because she offered to show me her favorite tea recipe. She disappeared into the back room and returned with a small notebook, its pages yellowed with age and filled with handwritten notes. She flipped through the pages until she landed on a recipe titled "Spiced Iced Tea."

"This is one of my favorite recipes," she explained, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "It's been passed down through generations in my family and I'm happy to share it with you."

I eagerly took the notebook from her hands, my eyes scanning the ingredients and instructions. The recipe called for a blend of black tea, cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of orange zest, all brewed together and then chilled over ice. It sounded like the perfect refreshing drink for a hot summer day.

Mrs. Jenkins noticed my excitement and offered to walk me through the steps of making the tea. We gathered the ingredients and she showed me how to carefully measure out each one, explaining the importance of balance and precision in creating the perfect flavor. As the tea steeped, the aroma of spices filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Once the tea had cooled, Mrs. Jenkins poured it over a glass filled with ice and handed it to me with a smile. I took a sip and was instantly transported to a place of comfort and familiarity. The flavors were bold and refreshing, with just the right amount of sweetness and spice.

As I savored the tea, Mrs. Jenkins shared stories of her own experiences with the recipe. She told me about lazy summer afternoons spent sipping iced tea on the porch with her family, the laughter and conversations flowing freely. Her words painted a picture of a simpler time, where the simple act of sharing a cup of tea brought people together in a way that nothing else could.

I left the tea shop that day feeling inspired and grateful for the chance encounter with Mrs. Jenkins. I had not only discovered a new recipe, but I had also gained a deeper appreciation for the power of tradition and connection that food can bring.

From that day on, Spiced Iced Tea became a staple in my own kitchen. I would brew a fresh batch whenever friends or family came to visit, sharing the recipe and stories of Mrs. Jenkins with anyone who would listen. The tea became a symbol of warmth and hospitality, a reminder of the simple pleasures that can be found in a good cup of tea.

As I sit here now, sipping on a glass of Spiced Iced Tea, I am reminded of the day I first discovered this recipe and the impact it has had on my life. It is a reminder that food is not just sustenance, but a source of comfort, joy, and connection. And for that, I am forever grateful.