Vietnam's vibrant street food scene boasts a refreshing star: Trà Tắc, or Off-Tea. This delightful beverage, a captivating blend of sweet, tart, and slightly bitter notes, is a beloved national drink enjoyed across the country. Imagine a perfect harmony of black tea, lemon, and a unique herbal sweetness, all perfectly balanced and incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day. Its unique flavor profile stems from the combination of strong brewed tea, the tangy zest of lemon, and a touch of a special herbal ingredient often kept secret by family vendors. This tantalizing mix creates a drink that's both invigorating and subtly complex, making it a favorite amongst locals and a fascinating discovery for visitors.
Trà Tắc's popularity extends beyond simple enjoyment; it represents a taste of Vietnamese culture and culinary creativity. From bustling street corners to sophisticated cafes, its presence is ubiquitous. Ready to make your own authentic Vietnamese Off-Tea at home or elevate your business offerings? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step recipe that will guide you through creating this refreshing masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- filter
- pot
- sieve
- stove
- rack
- shaker
- 1-liter glass
- 700ml glass
- 800ml glass
Ingredients
- Filtered L tea: 30g
- Filtered black tea: 30g
- Salt: 1/5 teaspoon
- Sugar: 500g
- Water: 500ml + 2 liters
- Kumquats
- Lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Brew & Strain the Tea
- Combine 30g of filtered L tea and 30g of filtered black tea. Add 2 liters of boiling water. Cover and let it brew for exactly 10 minutes. Don't over-brew!
- Filter the brewed tea through a sieve to remove the tea leaves. The tea should be fragrant and have a beautiful color.
Step 2. Prepare Sweetener
- In a pot, combine 500g of sugar, 1/5 teaspoon of salt, and 500ml of filtered water. Stir well while heating over the stove until the sugar dissolves. Avoid burning. Turn off the heat once dissolved. Let cool.
Step 3. Assemble the Drink
- Thinly slice the kumquats.
- In a 1-liter glass, combine 120ml of tea essence, 150ml of sugar syrup, and 30ml of lemon juice. Stir well. Adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your preference.
- Shake the drink in a shaker for better mixing. Add ice.
Step 4. Serve & Garnish
- Serve and enjoy! Garnish with kumquat slices if desired.
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Watch the brewing time for the tea carefully to prevent bitterness.
- Use a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water for the sugar syrup. Don't cook for too long, as the syrup will be thick and sticky.
- Adjust the recipe according to your preferences and serving size. The right tea choice significantly impacts the taste!
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What is the secret ingredient in Off-Tea?
The 'secret' often lies in the specific blend of herbs used to create the unique sweetness and slight bitterness. While exact recipes vary, common additions include pandan leaves, or other local herbs for unique flavor profiles. Experiment to find your perfect blend!
2. Can I make Off-Tea without the special herbs?
Yes! While the herbs add a distinctive flavor, you can still make a delicious Off-Tea using just strong black tea, lemon juice, and sugar. Adjust the sweetness and lemon to your preference.
Making Vietnamese Off-Tea is a rewarding experience, allowing you to enjoy this refreshing beverage anytime. From home-brewed versions to potential business ventures, the possibilities are endless. Now go forth and create your own perfect cup of Trà Tắc!