How to Make Tea Ais (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Tea Ais, the quintessential Malaysian iced tea, is a beloved beverage enjoyed in kopitiams and mamak stalls across the nation. Rooted in Malaysia’s multicultural culinary landscape, Tea Ais blends strong black tea with creamy milk and fragrant pandan, served over ice for a refreshing treat perfect for Malaysia’s tropical climate. The drink’s appeal lies in its rich, smooth taste and its ability to cool you down during hot afternoons or accompany a hearty meal. In Malaysia, Tea Ais is not just a beverage but a symbol of togetherness, often shared among friends and family during breakfast or lunch. Its popularity cuts across ethnic groups, showcasing the harmony of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences in Malaysian cuisine. For those seeking a health-conscious option, our recipe uses locally sourced ingredients and lighter alternatives, making it suitable for calorie tracking and balanced diets. With hints of lemongrass and pandan, this Tea Ais offers a unique Malaysian twist, elevating the classic iced tea with authentic flavors while keeping it nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Black tea leaves (Teh Malaysia)
- 3 cups Water (Filtered)
- 2 pieces Pandan leaves (Daun pandan, knotted)
- 1/2 cup Evaporated milk (Susu cair)
- 2 tablespoons Low-fat sweetened condensed milk (Susu pekat manis)
- 1.5 cups Ice cubes (Ais batu)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass stalk (Serai, bruised)
- 1 teaspoon Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (Optional for sugar-free)
- 1 teaspoon Brown sugar (Gula perang, optional for flavor)
- 1 stick Cinnamon stick (Kayu manis, optional aromatic)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Bring 3 cups of water to boil in a pot
Bring 3 cups of water to boil in a pot. Add black tea leaves, pandan leaves, lemongrass stalk, and cinnamon stick. Let it simmer for 7-10 minutes to infuse flavors.
Step 2 · Remove pot from heat and strain the tea mixture into a jug to disca...
Remove pot from heat and strain the tea mixture into a jug to discard solids. Allow to cool slightly.
Step 3 · Add evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk to the strained tea
Add evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk to the strained tea. Stir thoroughly until well-mixed and creamy.
Step 4 · If desired
If desired, add stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a sugar-free option. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Step 5 · Fill glasses with ice cubes
Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the tea mixture over the ice, filling each glass evenly.
Step 6 · Garnish with a small pandan leaf or a sprinkle of brown sugar if de...
Garnish with a small pandan leaf or a sprinkle of brown sugar if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your Tea Ais!
Why this recipe is healthy
Our Tea Ais recipe is a healthy choice because it minimizes added sugars and uses low-fat dairy, making it suitable for calorie-conscious individuals. The inclusion of fragrant herbs like pandan and lemongrass enhances flavor without extra calories, while natural sweeteners provide sweetness without spiking blood sugar. The drink hydrates and refreshes, making it ideal for a balanced Malaysian diet and daily enjoyment.
A note on tradition
Tea Ais is a staple in Malaysian food culture, commonly served in kopitiams and mamak eateries throughout Peninsular Malaysia. Its roots trace back to British colonial influences, adapted by locals with Malaysian ingredients like pandan and lemongrass. The beverage is a popular choice during breakfast and lunch, often enjoyed with roti canai or nasi lemak. Tea Ais represents the multicultural harmony of Malaysia, blending flavors and traditions from Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities. It’s appreciated as a daily refreshment, especially during the warm afternoons.