🇹🇭 Thailand · Drinks
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (Nam Dok Anchan)
By eatmundo · July 9, 2026
A visually stunning and subtly flavored herbal tea, famous for its mesmerizing deep blue hue derived from butterfly pea flowers. When a squeeze of lime or lemon is added, this magical drink dramatically transforms into a vibrant purple, offering a delightful and refreshing experience.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried butterfly pea flowers into a heatproof glass or teapot. The quantity can be adjusted for a lighter or darker blue infusion.
- 2
Pour 250ml of freshly boiled water directly over the dried flowers. Observe the instant magic as the water begins to absorb the natural pigments and transforms into a beautiful deep blue right before your eyes.
- 3
Allow the flowers to steep for 3-5 minutes, or until your desired color intensity is achieved. For a stronger hue and a slightly more earthy taste, you can steep for up to 7 minutes; however, avoid over-steeping as it might develop a grassy note.
- 4
Carefully strain the tea into a clean serving glass, discarding the spent flowers. You will now have a vibrant, clear blue infusion, ready for the next magical step.
- 5
Sweeten the tea to your preference by stirring in 1-2 teaspoons of honey or sugar until it is fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
- 6
For the truly enchanting color change, squeeze in 1-2 teaspoons of fresh lime or lemon juice. Watch in awe as the blue morphs into a stunning purple. Serve immediately, warm for a soothing drink, or over a generous amount of ice for a refreshing cold beverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the color change in butterfly pea flower tea?+
The butterfly pea flower contains anthocyanins, natural pigments that react to changes in pH levels. When an acidic ingredient like lime or lemon juice is added, the pH drops, causing the blue color to dramatically shift to purple or even pink.
Can I use fresh butterfly pea flowers instead of dried?+
Yes, you can! If using fresh flowers, you'll generally need about 3-4 times the quantity compared to dried flowers to achieve a similar color intensity. Simply steep them in hot water as you would the dried ones.
Does butterfly pea flower tea have a strong taste?+
The tea itself has a very mild, slightly earthy or woody taste. Its primary appeal is its vibrant color and the dramatic pH-induced color change, making it a popular base for various refreshing drinks.
Are there any known side effects or contraindications for butterfly pea flower tea?+
Butterfly pea flower tea is generally considered safe for most people. However, due to its traditional uses, pregnant and breastfeeding women, or individuals with certain medical conditions, should consult a doctor before consumption.
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