How to Make Teh Tarik, Malaysia’s National Drink

Introduction

Want to master Malaysia’s most beloved beverage? In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Teh Tarik, the frothy, creamy “pulled tea” that’s a staple in Malaysian mamak stalls and coffee shops. This national drink isn’t just about flavor—it’s a symbol of Malaysian hospitality and culture. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of practice, you can enjoy an authentic cup of Teh Tarik right at home.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To make authentic Teh Tarik, you’ll need:

• 2 black tea bags (preferably strong Ceylon tea)
• 1 cup hot water
• 2–3 tablespoons condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon evaporated milk (optional)
• Sugar to taste

Tip: Traditional Teh Tarik uses both condensed and evaporated milk for that rich, silky flavor.

Step 2: Brew the Tea

Place the tea bags in a cup or teapot and pour in the hot water. Let it steep for about 3–5 minutes until the tea is dark and strong. Remove the tea bags.

Why: A strong brew ensures your Teh Tarik retains its signature bold taste even after mixing with milk.

Step 3: Add Milk and Sweeten

Stir in the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and sugar. Adjust sweetness to your preference. Mix well until the liquid looks smooth and creamy.

Tip: The ratio of tea to milk is key. Too much milk makes it heavy; too little and it loses that signature creaminess.

Step 4: The “Tarik” Technique

Now comes the fun part—pulling the tea!
Pour the tea back and forth between two mugs or metal cups from a height of about 1–2 feet. Do this several times until the mixture becomes frothy and well-aerated.

Why: This “pulling” process cools the tea slightly and creates a thick, velvety foam on top—just like at Malaysian mamak stalls.

Safety Tip: Start with smaller pours to avoid splashing, then increase height as you gain confidence.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Pour the frothy Teh Tarik into a glass or mug. The top should have a rich foam layer, and the color should be a beautiful light caramel brown. Serve hot alongside roti canai or kuih for the perfect Malaysian experience.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use regular black tea instead of Ceylon tea?
Yes, but Ceylon tea gives the best aroma and strength typical of Malaysian Teh Tarik.

Q2: Is Teh Tarik served cold?
Traditionally, it’s served hot, but you can also chill it with ice to make Teh Tarik Ais—a refreshing version for hot days.

Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Replace condensed milk with coconut milk or soy creamer, and add palm sugar syrup for sweetness.

Q4: What does “Teh Tarik” mean?
It literally means “pulled tea” in Malay, referring to the back-and-forth pouring method used to mix and cool the drink.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make Teh Tarik, you can bring a taste of Malaysia to your own kitchen. The secret lies in the pull—smooth, skillful, and done with passion. So grab your cups, start “tarik-ing,” and enjoy your creamy, frothy masterpiece today!