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Thailand · Drinks

Cha Manao (Thai Lime Tea)

10 min
130 kcal
1 serving

By eatmundo · July 9, 2026

Cha Manao (Thai Lime Tea)🇹🇭

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

7 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Cha Manao (Thai Lime Tea). The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Cold cooler105 recipes from 24 countriesSee all 7 matches

Cha Manao, or Thai Lime Tea, is a refreshingly tart and sweet iced tea, a popular antidote to Thailand's tropical heat. Made with strongly brewed black tea, fresh lime juice, and a touch of simple syrup or sugar, it perfectly balances citrusy brightness with a comforting tea base, always served over plenty of ice.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Cha Manao from another cuisine is Classic American Lime Rickey (USA): the two share 67% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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1 serving

How to Make It

  • 1

    Bring 200ml water to a rolling boil. Add 2 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose leaf black tea) to a heatproof cup or mug. Pour the hot water over the tea and steep for 5 minutes to create a strong brew.

  • 2

    Remove the tea bags or strain the loose leaf tea. Stir in 2-3 tablespoons sugar (or 30ml simple syrup) until fully dissolved. The tea should be quite sweet at this stage, as it will be diluted by ice and lime.

  • 3

    Allow the sweetened tea to cool to room temperature. For faster cooling, place the cup in an ice bath.

  • 4

    Squeeze 2-3 tablespoons fresh lime juice from about 1-2 limes. Ensure there are no seeds.

  • 5

    Fill a tall glass with plenty of ice cubes. Pour the cooled sweetened tea over the ice.

  • 6

    Add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the glass. Stir well. Taste and adjust with more sugar or lime juice if desired, finding your perfect sweet-tart balance.

  • 7

    Garnish with a lime wedge or slice, and a straw. Enjoy this invigorating Thai lime tea while it's still cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cha Manao?

Cha Manao is a Thai lime tea beverage prepared from strong black tea, sugar, lime juice, and ice cubes. Originating in Thailand, this refreshing drink is typically consumed cold as a thirst-quencher throughout the day.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

While fresh lime juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, though it might lack the same vibrant zestiness.

What type of black tea should I use?

A strong, robust black tea like Ceylon, Assam, or a Thai blend works best to stand up to the lime and sugar. Avoid delicate teas.

How can I make a larger batch for a party?

Simply scale up all the ingredients proportionally. Brew the tea, sweeten, cool, then combine with lime juice in a pitcher, adding ice just before serving.

Can I make it less sweet?

Absolutely. Adjust the amount of sugar in step 2 to your preference. Start with less and add more if needed after tasting the final mixed drink.

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