Thai Iced Tea

I first had a Thai iced tea at a restaurant in California. A friend's brother wanted to make it for me (he worked there) and I agreed to try it. I don't really like tea, but this has a sweet, creamy, spicy taste. Not spicy hot, but with some spices in it. This Giada recipe is pretty good. It's a very sweet drink, so not for the faint at heart. Of course the sweet creaminess makes it a good pairing for hot Thai food.

Thai Iced Tea

5 cups water

1/2 cup sugar
5 whole star anise pods
8 black tea bags
3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
Ice
Mint leaves, for garnish

In a medium saucepan, over medium heat, bring the water, sugar and star anise pods to a boil. Remove the pan from the heat and add the tea bags. Allow the tea to steep and cool to room temperature, about 1 hour. Discard the star anise pods and the tea bags and whisk in the condensed milk. Pour into a large pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until ready to serve.

To serve: Pour the tea into 4 ice-filled glasses. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve.