How do you make Royal Milk tea?

How to Make Royal Milk Tea

This recipe is based on the traditional Hong Kong-style milk tea, often called "silk stocking milk tea" due to the silky smooth texture achieved by straining the tea through a fine mesh.

Ingredients:

* Tea:

* 4 tablespoons loose leaf black tea (e.g., Ceylon or Assam) or 4 tea bags (black tea, not Earl Grey)

* 4 cups water

* Milk:

* 2 cups whole milk

* Sugar:

* 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

* Optional:

* Condensed milk for sweetness and creaminess

* Cardamom pods or star anise for additional flavor

Equipment:

* Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

* Large pot or kettle

* Small saucepan

* Whisk

* Teacup or mug

Instructions:

1. Brew the tea: Bring the water to a boil in a large pot or kettle. Add the tea and steep for 5-8 minutes.

2. Strain the tea: While still hot, strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container.

3. Heat the milk: Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.

4. Combine and sweeten: Pour the hot tea into the saucepan with the warm milk. Add sugar and whisk until dissolved. If using, add condensed milk to taste.

5. Optional flavors: Add cardamom pods or star anise to the tea while brewing for added flavor.

6. Serve hot: Pour the milk tea into teacups or mugs and serve immediately.

Tips:

* Use high-quality black tea for the best flavor.

* If you prefer a stronger tea, use more tea leaves or steep for a longer time.

* For a smoother texture, strain the tea twice through a fine mesh strainer.

* Add sugar to taste, or use honey or maple syrup for a healthier option.

* You can adjust the milk-to-tea ratio based on your preference.

* Experiment with different types of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk.

* Enjoy your Royal Milk Tea!

Note: This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Scale up the recipe as needed.