๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ China ยท Drinks

Hong Kong Style Milk Tea

โฑ 10 min
Ready in a flash
๐Ÿ”ฅ 150 kcal
Light bite
๐Ÿฝ 1 servings
Just for you (or a date)

By eatmundo ยท July 12, 2026

Hong Kong Style Milk Tea๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ CNAndy Li ยท CC0 ยท Wikimedia Commons

A silky, robust, and creamy tea known for its distinctive 'pantyhose' filter brewing method. It is the signature beverage of Hong Kong tea cafes.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Brew 10g of loose-leaf black tea in 200ml boiling water for 5 minutes.

  • 2

    Place a cloth strainer over a cup and pour the strong tea through it carefully.

  • 3

    Pull the tea back and forth between two pots multiple times to aerate it.

  • 4

    Add 30ml evaporated milk into the hot tea for body and creaminess.

  • 5

    Stir in 30ml condensed milk to provide the signature silky sweetness.

  • 6

    Check the balance between the bitterness of the tea and the sweetness of the milk.

  • 7

    Pour the tea into a chilled or warm glass depending on the season.

  • 8

    Serve immediately while the aroma is at its peak intensity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of black tea is best for authentic Hong Kong style milk tea?+

Use a robust, loose-leaf Ceylon or a blend of broken orange pekoe leaves to achieve the signature bold and astringent flavor profile.

Why is evaporated milk used instead of regular milk?+

Evaporated milk has a much higher fat and protein content, providing the thick, creamy mouthfeel and richness that distinguishes Hong Kong style tea.

How long should I steep the tea leaves to get the right strength?+

Steep the tea for 5 to 7 minutes in boiling water; any longer can make the tea excessively bitter, while shorter will lack the required body.

What is the secret to getting a smooth texture?+

The secret is 'pulling' or straining the tea through a fine mesh stocking filter several times to aerate it, which creates a velvety smooth finish.

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