How to Make Iced Darjeeling Tea (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Iced Darjeeling Tea, known locally as 'Teh Darjeeling Ais', has found its place in Malaysian beverage culture, blending the aromatic Darjeeling tea leaves with local ingredients like pandan and lemongrass to create a refreshing and health-conscious drink. Malaysia’s multicultural food scene celebrates tea in many forms, and Iced Darjeeling Tea is a popular choice for those seeking a lighter, fragrant alternative to traditional 'teh tarik'. The infusion of pandan (daun pandan) and lemongrass (serai) brings a distinctly Malaysian twist, giving the tea a floral and citrusy undertone that’s both soothing and invigorating. The drink is perfect for Malaysia’s tropical climate—served chilled, it offers a cooling respite from the midday heat. Its popularity spans across communities, enjoyed at kopitiams and modern cafés alike. The subtle sweetness and herbal notes make it a versatile beverage, pairing well with spicy Malaysian mains or kuih-muih (traditional snacks). By using natural sweeteners and local herbs, this version of Iced Darjeeling Tea becomes not just a tasty treat but a healthy option for calorie-conscious Malaysians.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Darjeeling tea leaves (Teh Darjeeling)
- 3 cups Water (Air)
- 1 leaf Pandan leaf (Daun pandan, tied into a knot)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass stalk (Serai, bruised)
- 2 teaspoons Stevia or palm sugar (Gula Melaka or stevia, adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Lime juice (Limau nipis)
- 2 cups Ice cubes (Ais)
- 4 leaves Fresh mint leaves (Daun pudina, for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Bring water to a boil in a pot
Bring water to a boil in a pot. Add the pandan leaf and bruised lemongrass stalk to infuse aromatic Malaysian flavors.
Step 2 · Once boiling
Once boiling, reduce heat and add Darjeeling tea leaves. Simmer for 3-5 minutes to extract the delicate aroma.
Step 3 · Remove from heat
Remove from heat. Strain the tea into a jug, discarding the leaves, pandan, and lemongrass.
Step 4 · Stir in stevia or palm sugar while the tea is still warm to dissolv...
Stir in stevia or palm sugar while the tea is still warm to dissolve fully. Add lime juice if desired for a tangy twist.
Step 5 · Let the tea cool to room temperature
Let the tea cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill.
Step 6 · Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled tea over
Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled tea over. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Step 7 · Serve immediately for best refreshment
Serve immediately for best refreshment.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Malaysian Iced Darjeeling Tea recipe uses natural sweeteners and local herbs, reducing refined sugar intake and providing antioxidants. Its low calorie count makes it suitable for weight management, while the addition of pandan and lemongrass supports digestion and overall wellness. The drink is hydrating and free from artificial additives, fitting well into vegetarian and light diets.
A note on tradition
In Malaysia, iced teas are a staple in both urban and rural settings, enjoyed during hot afternoons and festive gatherings. While traditional teas like 'teh tarik' dominate, Iced Darjeeling Tea is gaining popularity for its lighter, aromatic profile. The use of pandan and lemongrass reflects the Malaysian penchant for infusing beverages with local herbs, adding unique flavors beloved across generations. It is commonly served in Penang and Kuala Lumpur’s trendy cafés, often alongside Malaysian snacks.