Thai Tea vs. Mint Tea

Thai Tea

Thai tea is a sweet, creamy drink made from strong black tea, usually Ceylon or a local version of Assam. It’s brewed with sugar and often flavored with condensed milk, giving it that rich, smooth taste and signature orange color. When served cold, it’s poured over ice, sometimes with a splash of evaporated milk on top for that creamy swirl. In Thailand, you’ll find it in tall glasses at restaurants or in plastic cups or bags from street vendors. Some places even turn it into a blended drink, like a frappé. There are variations too—like a version without milk called “dark Thai iced tea,” or one with lime for a citrusy kick. People drink it hot in the mornings as well, often with fried dough sticks.

Mint Tea

Mint tea is a warm drink made by soaking fresh or dried mint leaves in hot water. It’s simple—just mint and water—but the taste is fresh and cool, with a hint of sweetness depending on the type of mint you use. Peppermint tea has a stronger, sharper flavor, while spearmint tea is milder and a bit sweeter. People often drink it to relax or help with digestion. It’s popular in many places around the world—like in Morocco, where it’s made with green tea and lots of sugar, or in India, where mint is sometimes added to chai. In Korea, they have a version called bakha-cha. Making it is easy: boil some water, pour it over the mint leaves, let it sit for a few minutes, and you’re good to go. Some folks like adding honey or lemon, but it’s just as nice plain. The smell alone is pretty calming—fresh, like a garden after rain.

Reviews

Reviewed on 2/23/2025

The Thai staple. What can be better than a cold iced tea on a hot afternoon in Chiang Mai? Although they often make them too sweet so I always ask for no added sugar.

Reviews

Reviewed on 2/25/2025

Refreshing and caffeine-free. Popular for its curative effects. Anti-inflammatory.

Pros
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Delicious and refreshing2
Cons
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Really sweet1
Pros
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Caffeine-free2
Refreshing2
Anti-inflammatory2
Cons
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