Does Thai green tea contain caffeine?

Yes, Thai green tea does contain caffeine because it uses green tea leaves or matcha, both natural sources of caffeine. A typical serving has between 30–50 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce glass—less than coffee but more than many herbal teas. This moderate caffeine level makes it a perfect option for those seeking a gentle energy boost without the intense jitters of coffee.

Is green Thai tea healthy?

Green Thai tea can be considered healthy in moderation. Green tea and matcha are packed with antioxidants like catechins, which help fight free radicals, promote heart health, and aid metabolism. The drink also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness. However, the added sweetened condensed milk increases sugar and calorie content. Making it at home allows you to adjust sweetness and choose healthier milk alternatives to keep it aligned with your dietary goals.

What's the difference between Thai tea and Thai green tea?

The primary difference lies in the type of tea and color. Thai tea uses black tea leaves blended with spices and food coloring, giving it a bright orange color, whereas Thai green tea uses green tea leaves or matcha for a vibrant green shade. Flavor-wise, Thai tea is bolder with a slightly stronger tannin presence, while Thai green tea is earthier and lighter. Thai green tea also often has a fresher, grassy note from the matcha, which isn’t present in Thai tea.

What is Thai green tea made of?

Thai green tea is made using a combination of green tea leaves or matcha powder, black tea leaves, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option), and aromatic spices like star anise and cloves. It’s often served over ice for a refreshing drink or enjoyed warm as a latte. The result is a creamy, lightly spiced beverage with a beautiful green hue and a balanced sweet-earthy flavor.

Thai Green Tea: The Most Delicious Drink You Must Try

Description

This refreshing Thai Green Tea combines aromatic spices, rich black tea, creamy condensed milk, and vibrant matcha for a layered iced drink that’s both comforting and energizing.

Ingredients

Scale

2 star anise pods
5 cloves
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons black tea leaves
1 ½ tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
1 pinch kosher salt
¾ cup hot water
2 teaspoons matcha
Ice, as needed

Instructions

In a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the star anise and cloves for a few minutes until fragrant. Remove and let cool.
Coarsely crush the toasted spices with a mallet or rolling pin.
Heat the milk until steaming, then add the black tea leaves and crushed spices. Let steep for 45 minutes.
Strain the tea mixture, pressing on the solids to extract liquid, then discard solids. Stir in sweetened condensed milk and kosher salt until combined. Chill in the refrigerator.
In the meantime, whisk matcha into the hot water until smooth and frothy. Set aside.
Fill a serving glass with ice, pour in the chilled Thai tea, then gently top with the prepared matcha. Stir before serving.

Notes

For a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with coconut or almond milk and use sweetened condensed coconut milk.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less condensed milk to taste.
Use ceremonial grade matcha for a brighter color and smoother flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 140
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Thai green tea, iced Thai tea, matcha Thai tea, Thai tea recipe, Thai drinks