Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its flavors and combination of sweet and savory. One of the most refreshing and popular drinks, especially on hot summer days, is Vietnamese iced tea. With its slight sweetness, the subtle bitterness of the tea and the refreshing kick of ice cubes, it is a real pleasure. In this essay, we will explore some popular Vietnamese iced tea recipes and introduce several variations that highlight the tea's flavor.

Basic recipe for Vietnamese iced tea:

Ingredients:

• 4 bags of green or black tea (any tea of ​​your choice)
• 4 cups hot water
• 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
• ice cubes
• Lemon slices or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Place the tea bags in a heatproof pot and pour 4 cups of hot water over them. Cover and let the tea steep for about 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you like it.

2. Add the sugar and stir until completely dissolved. You can vary the amount of sugar according to your taste.

3. Allow the tea to cool and then place in the refrigerator until well chilled.

4. Serve the tea in glasses with ice cubes. You can also add lemon slices or mint leaves to vary the flavor and give the drink a refreshing touch.

Variations of Vietnamese iced tea:

1. Jasmine iced tea: Instead of green or black tea, use jasmine tea bags for a floral aroma. This gives the iced tea a whole new dimension of taste.

2. Condensed milk iced tea: Add sweetened condensed milk instead of regular sugar for a creamier and sweeter iced tea. This style is reminiscent of the famous "Cà phê sữa đá" (Vietnamese iced coffee) and offers a delicious change.

3. Coconut iced tea: Mix coconut milk with your tea for an exotic touch. This gives the iced tea a creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor.

4. Fruity variations: Add fresh fruits like mango, pineapple or strawberries for a fruity touch. You can add the fruit to the tea or mix the iced tea with fruit juice.

5. Ginger iced tea: Add grated ginger to give the iced tea a spicy kick. This is a great way to spice up iced tea and add a touch of warmth.

Vietnamese iced tea is not just a drink, but a culinary experience. You can experiment with the different variations depending on your preference and mood. Whether you prefer the classic taste or are brave enough to try new flavors, Vietnamese iced tea is the perfect choice for a refreshing cool down on hot summer days. Try out the different recipes and be surprised by the variety and unique taste of this refreshing drink. Enjoy the delicious world of Vietnamese iced tea and immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of Vietnamese cuisine.