Teh Tarik with Condensed Milk
Beverages • India
How to Make Teh Tarik with Condensed Milk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Teh Tarik with Condensed Milk is a beloved frothy milk tea, known for its creamy texture and sweet, aromatic flavor. While its roots are in Malaysia, this beverage has found its way into Indian homes, especially in regions with a strong tea-drinking culture like Kerala and Tamil Nadu. In India, chai (chai ki pyali) is more than just a beverage—it's a ritual, a way to bond with friends and family. Teh Tarik, meaning 'pulled tea' in Malay, gets its signature froth from the artful pouring of the tea between vessels, similar to the way South Indian filter coffee is prepared. The use of condensed milk adds richness and an irresistible sweetness, making it a perfect indulgence for festive mornings or special gatherings. In Indian cuisine, this milk tea stands out for its blend of strong black tea (chai patti), aromatic spices, and the creamy depth of mithai-style condensed milk. It is often enjoyed during festivals, especially when families gather for Eid or Diwali, and offers a comforting treat during the monsoon. The recipe below provides a balanced, health-conscious way to enjoy this classic beverage, with tips to keep the calories in check without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients(for 1 large cup (approx. 200 ml))
- 2 tablespoons Loose leaf black tea (chai patti)
- 1.5 cups Water (pani)
- 4 tablespoons Low-fat condensed milk (mithai wala dudh)
- 0.5 cup Low-fat milk (dudh)
- 2 pods Green cardamom (elaichi, lightly crushed) - optional
- 1/2 inch Fresh ginger (adrak, grated) - optional
- 1 small piece Cinnamon stick (dalchini) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Stevia or brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Boil water in a saucepan (patila) and add the loose leaf black tea. Toss in crushed cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon if using. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to extract the flavors.
5 minutes
Simmer on low to avoid bitterness and enhance aroma.
- 2
Add low-fat milk and continue simmering for another 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking.
5 minutes
Use a wooden spoon (chammach) for gentle stirring.
- 3
Strain the tea into a large mug or another saucepan to remove the tea leaves and spices.
2 minutes
Use a fine mesh strainer (channi) for a smooth texture.
- 4
Add condensed milk to the strained tea and stir well until fully dissolved. Taste and add stevia or brown sugar if extra sweetness is desired.
2 minutes
Adjust sweetness to preference; condensed milk is already sweet.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This recipe uses low-fat milk and reduced condensed milk, making it lower in calories and fat compared to traditional versions. Optional use of stevia or brown sugar helps control sugar levels. Spices like cardamom and ginger add not just flavor but health benefits, making this a smart, satisfying choice for tea lovers looking for a healthier indulgence.
Teh Tarik with Condensed Milk, when prepared with low-fat milk and reduced condensed milk, offers a decent dose of calcium and protein. Black tea is rich in antioxidants (polyphenols) which help fight inflammation. Cardamom and ginger offer digestive benefits and can help boost metabolism. This beverage contains moderate carbohydrates due to milk and condensed milk, but the overall fat content can be kept low with mindful ingredient choices. Remember to enjoy in moderation, especially if you are tracking sugar intake.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use fresh, high-quality chai patti for the most aromatic flavor.
- 💡Master the 'pulling' technique on the kitchen counter to prevent spills.
- 💡Add spices according to preference; less for kids, more for adults.
Storage & Serving
Best enjoyed fresh and hot. If needed, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently before serving, and 'pull' again for froth.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 140.0 kcal |
