Thai Green Tea (20 Oz.) Recipe

Heat water to proper temperature

Bring 600 ml fresh water to a temperature of about 75–80°C (not boiling). If you don't have a thermometer, remove water from a full boil and let it sit 2–3 minutes to cool.

Place 3 tablespoons loose-leaf green tea into a heatproof container or teapot. Pour the 600 ml of 75–80°C water over the leaves.

Steep for 2.5–3 minutes. Taste at 2 minutes and extend to 3 minutes if you prefer slightly stronger flavor; avoid steeping longer to prevent bitterness.

Strain the tea leaves through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof bowl or pitcher. While still warm, stir in 3 tablespoons granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Allow the concentrate to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (you can speed this by placing the container in an ice bath).

In a small pitcher or bowl, combine 60 ml sweetened condensed milk with 120 ml whole milk (or evaporated milk if using). Whisk or stir until fully blended and smooth.

Add 1/4 tsp vanilla extract if using, and taste. This mixture should be noticeably sweet and creamy — it will be diluted by the tea and ice, so err on the slightly sweeter side if you prefer classic Thai tea sweetness.

If you want a brighter green color, dissolve 1/4 tsp of matcha or powdered green tea in 1 tablespoon warm water and mix into the chilled green tea concentrate. This is optional and only for color intensity; it will slightly change flavor.

Fill a 20 oz (about 600 ml) serving glass with 2 cups of ice cubes.

Pour 300 ml of the chilled green tea concentrate over the ice (about half the glass). Taste and add up to 1 tablespoon additional simple syrup or granulated sugar if you prefer sweeter tea; stir to dissolve.

Slowly pour 90 ml of the sweetened condensed milk mix over the back of a spoon onto the tea to create a layered look (this is about 3 ounces). The remaining 30 ml can be reserved to adjust creaminess to taste and stirred in if desired.

Gently stir before drinking to fully combine the tea and creamy milk. Serve with a wide straw or spoon. Optionally garnish with a thin lime wheel or mint sprig for contrast.