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Ingredients
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Milk Tea Base
Optional Flavor/Add-ins
Method
Milk Tea Base
- 1
Brew the Tea
Bring 480 ml water to a rolling simmer (just below boiling). Add 2 tablespoons black tea leaves (or 2 strong black tea bags). Reduce heat, simmer gently for 3–4 minutes for a robust brew (5 minutes for very strong). Remove from heat and steep for an additional 2 minutes off heat for fuller flavor. Strain out the leaves or remove tea bags.
- 2
Sweeten the Brew
While the tea is still hot, stir in 2 tablespoons granulated sugar until fully dissolved. If using condensed milk or honey instead of sugar, add 1 tablespoon now and stir to combine.
- 3
- 4
Finish
Remove from heat. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the milk tea through a fine mesh sieve to catch any residual tea particles. Keep warm if serving hot.
Optional Flavor/Add-ins & Serving
- 5
Cinnamon Variation
If using ground cinnamon, sprinkle 1 teaspoon into the milk tea when you add the milk, whisk briefly to incorporate and heat for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spice.
- 6
Iced Milk Tea
To serve iced, fill a glass with 2 cups of ice. Pour the freshly prepared milk tea (cooled slightly) over the ice. Stir briefly and serve immediately. For best results, chill the brewed tea in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before adding milk and ice to minimize dilution.
- 7
With Tapioca Pearls (Boba)
If using pre-cooked tapioca pearls, divide about 1/4 cup cooked pearls per serving into glasses before adding tea. If cooking from dry, follow package instructions (usually boil 20–30 minutes and rest 20–30 minutes) and then sweeten the cooked pearls with a small amount of sugar or syrup before adding to the glass.
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