How to Make Tea Hijau (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Tea Hijau, or green tea, has become a beloved beverage in the Malaysian culinary landscape, reflecting the nation’s embrace of healthful living and multicultural influences. While green tea originally hails from afar, its adoption in Malaysia has incorporated local flavors and traditions, making it a unique and refreshing choice. Malaysians often infuse Tea Hijau with aromatic ingredients such as pandan leaves and lemongrass, lending a fragrant twist that is distinctly local. Enjoyed hot or cold, Tea Hijau is prized in Malaysia for its light, grassy notes and subtle bitterness, often sweetened lightly or served plain. It’s a common sight at kopitiams (coffee shops) and is increasingly popular among younger generations seeking low-calorie, antioxidant-rich drinks. This healthy, vegetarian beverage fits seamlessly into the Malaysian lifestyle, whether sipped during a relaxing breakfast, a mid-day break, or as a revitalizing accompaniment to local kuih. The recipe below stays true to Malaysian sensibilities—utilizing local ingredients and mindful of both taste and nutrition—making it an ideal choice for health-conscious tea lovers.
Bahan
Arahan langkah demi langkah
Step 1 · Rinse the pandan leaves and lemongrass stalk thoroughly
Rinse the pandan leaves and lemongrass stalk thoroughly. Knot the pandan leaves and bruise the lemongrass with the back of a knife to release aroma.
Step 2 · Bring filtered water to a gentle boil in a pot
Bring filtered water to a gentle boil in a pot. Add the pandan leaves and lemongrass, simmering on low heat for 5-7 minutes.
Step 3 · Remove the pot from heat
Remove the pot from heat. Add green tea leaves and let steep for 2-3 minutes, depending on desired strength.
Step 4 · Strain the tea into a jug
Strain the tea into a jug, discarding leaves, pandan, and lemongrass. Stir in stevia or rock sugar while the tea is still warm, if desired.
Step 5 · For a citrusy note
For a citrusy note, add fresh lime juice to the strained tea.
Step 6 · Serve hot in mugs
Serve hot in mugs, or pour over ice cubes for a chilled version perfect for Malaysia’s warm weather.
Mengapa resipi ini sihat
This Malaysian Tea Hijau is a healthy choice thanks to its zero-fat, low-calorie profile and antioxidant-rich green tea base. The use of natural flavorings like pandan and lemongrass reduces the need for added sugars or syrups. It hydrates, supports digestion, and can help manage cravings, making it ideal for those on weight management or wellness journeys.
Nota tentang tradisi
In Malaysia, Tea Hijau has found its place at both modern cafés and traditional kopitiams, often enjoyed during breakfast or as a cooling drink during the hot afternoon. The addition of pandan and lemongrass reflects the nation’s love for fragrant, herbal infusions and highlights the multicultural nature of Malaysian cuisine. Tea drinking is a social ritual, whether among friends or family, and this version is especially enjoyed during health-focused gatherings and Ramadan for its gentle, restorative qualities.