Thai Iced Tea (No Food Coloring)

Time to Make:
About 15–20 minutes (plus cooling time)

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons loose black tea
  (Strong black tea like Ceylon or Assam)
• 1–2 star anise pods
• 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
• 2–3 whole cloves (optional)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk or whole milk (for topping)
• Ice

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Dairy-Free Alternatives:

• Instead of sweetened condensed milk: Use sweetened condensed coconut milk or make your own with coconut milk and sugar.
• Instead of evaporated/whole milk: Use oat milk, almond milk, or full-fat coconut milk for creaminess.

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Instructions:

1. Brew the tea:
   Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the black tea, star anise, and any optional spices. Simmer on low for 3–5 minutes.
2. Strain & sweeten:
   Remove from heat. Strain out the tea leaves and spices. Stir in the sugar while the tea is still warm. Let it cool to room temp or refrigerate to chill.
3. Assemble:
   Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in the sweetened tea, leaving some space at the top.
4. Top it off:
   Slowly pour in the milk (or dairy-free alternative) to create that classic layered look.
5. Serve & enjoy:
   Stir to blend before sipping—or leave it layered for that cool aesthetic.

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