Thailand is known for its refreshing and unique beverages, many of which reflect the country’s tropical climate and rich culinary traditions. Here is a list of some famous beverages from Thailand:
1. **Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen):**
Thai Iced Tea is a sweet and creamy tea made from strong-brewed Ceylon tea mixed with sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk. It’s often served over ice and is a popular street drink.
2. **Thai Iced Coffee (Oliang):**
Similar to Thai Iced Tea, Oliang is Thai Iced Coffee. It’s made by brewing coffee with various spices like cardamom, corn, and soybeans. The coffee is sweetened, poured over ice, and sometimes topped with evaporated milk.
3. **Coconut Water (Nam Maprao):**
Thailand is known for its abundant coconut trees, and coconut water is a naturally hydrating and refreshing beverage. It’s commonly served in its natural form or used as a base for smoothies and other drinks.
4. **Fresh Fruit Juices:**
Thailand offers a variety of fresh fruit juices, including watermelon, pineapple, mango, and guava juices. These are often available at street stalls and markets, providing a healthy and delicious way to stay hydrated.
5. **Herbal Drinks:**
Thai herbal drinks are popular for their perceived health benefits. Examples include Chrysanthemum Tea (Dok Chan), Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (Nam Dok Anchan), and Lemongrass Tea (Nam Takrai).
6. **Thai Lemon Iced Tea (Cha Ma Now):**
A variation of Thai Iced Tea, Cha Ma Now combines black tea with lemon, sugar, and ice. It offers a tangy and refreshing twist to the traditional Thai Iced Tea.
7. **Roselle Juice (Nam Krajiab):**
Made from the calyces of the roselle plant, this deep red, tangy juice is rich in antioxidants. It’s often sweetened and served over ice, providing a uniquely Thai flavor.
8. **Milk Green Tea (Cha Nom Yen):**
This beverage combines Thai green tea with sweetened condensed milk, creating a creamy and slightly bitter drink. It’s commonly served over ice.
9. **Bael Fruit Drink (Nam Matoom):**
Made from the bael fruit, this drink is believed to have various health benefits. It has a distinct flavor and is often sweetened with honey or sugar.
10. **Sugarcane Juice (Nam Oy):**
Sugarcane juice is a popular street drink in Thailand. The juice is extracted from sugarcane and is often served with a splash of lime and ice.
11. **Red Bull (Krating Daeng):**
The original energy drink, Krating Daeng, is a Thai creation. It gained international fame as the inspiration for the creation of the globally popular Red Bull energy drink.
These beverages showcase the diversity of flavors in Thai drinks, combining sweet, savory, herbal, and tropical elements. Whether enjoyed on the bustling streets of Bangkok or at a beachside cafe, Thai beverages are an essential part of the country’s vibrant culinary scene.