Beverage
Sri Lankan Tea with Raisin and Nutmeg (Aromatic Spiced Milk Tea)
Original name: Sri Lankan Tea with Raisin and Nutmeg
About this dish
This fragrant Sri Lankan tea is a comforting blend of black tea, warm spices, and sweet raisins, infused with the aromatic touch of nutmeg. Originating from the island's rich tea culture, this beverage offers a soothing balance of spice and sweetness, perfect for a quiet afternoon or a cozy evening.
The nutmeg adds a gentle warmth that pairs beautifully with the natural fruitiness of raisins, creating a truly memorable cup.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
Water
liquid240 ml
Imperial measurement: 1 cup
Whole milk
dairy480 ml
Imperial measurement: 2 cups
Black tea leaves
other4 teaspoons
Raisins
fruit2 tablespoons
Fresh ginger, thinly sliced
other3 slices
Green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
spice4 pods
Cinnamon stick
spice1 stick
Freshly grated nutmeg
spice1/2 teaspoon
Sugar or honey, to taste
other1-2 tablespoons
Method
Combine water and spices
3 minutesIn a medium saucepan, combine the water, ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to infuse the water with the spices.
Add milk and raisins
5 minutesPour in the milk and add the raisins. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer, but be careful not to let it boil over. Stir occasionally.
Steep the tea
4 minutesOnce the milk is simmering, add the black tea leaves. Let it steep for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tea reaches your desired strength.
Add nutmeg and sweetener
1 minuteStir in the freshly grated nutmeg and sweetener (if using). Continue to simmer for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
Strain and serve
2 minutesRemove from heat. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into cups, discarding the solids. Serve hot, garnished with a pinch of extra nutmeg if desired.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Whisk or long spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater for nutmeg
Nutrition facts
Tips
- For a richer flavor, use whole spices and freshly grate the nutmeg just before adding it to the tea. Pre-ground nutmeg tends to lose its aromatic oils and will not impart the same depth.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference. Traditional Sri Lankan tea is often brewed with sugar, but honey or a natural sweetener like jaggery can also be used for a more caramel-like note.
- If you prefer a lighter tea, reduce the amount of black tea leaves or steep for a shorter time. Conversely, for a stronger brew, let the tea steep a little longer, but be careful not to over-brew as it may become bitter.
- Leftover tea can be cooled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened.
Serving suggestions
- Serve this aromatic tea in pre-warmed cups or glasses. It pairs beautifully with traditional Sri Lankan sweets like kokis (crispy rice flour cookies) or banana fritters.
- For.
- For a more international pairing, enjoy it alongside shortbread cookies or a slice of spiced pound cake.
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Recipe by
Camila Morales
Specialises in Mexican cuisineCamila makes mole that takes three days. She says shortcuts are for the weak. Her abuela approves.
Describe yourself in three words: Patient, serious, deeply traditional.