🇹🇭 Thailand · Drinks
Cha Manao (Thai Lime Tea)
By eatmundo · July 9, 2026
🇹🇭 THCha 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.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow 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.
🇹🇭 THMundo Match
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