Drinks
Butter Tea with Ginger and Black Pepper: A Warming Himalayan-Style Brew
Original name: Butter Tea with Ginger and Black Pepper
About this dish
This Himalayan-inspired butter tea combines rich black tea with creamy butter, warming ginger, and a peppery kick. It's a comforting, energizing brew that's perfect for chilly mornings or cozy afternoons.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
Water
liquid500 ml (about 2.5 cups)
Imperial measurement: 2.5 cups
Fresh ginger
other30 g (about 3 cm piece), thinly sliced
Imperial measurement: 1 ounce, thinly sliced
Black peppercorns
spice1 teaspoon
Black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)
spice2 teaspoons or 2 tea bags
Unsalted butter
dairy2 tablespoons add 1 teaspoon extra for serving possibly unsalted cut small. Traditional often salted.">unsalted butter
Imperial measurement: 2 tablespoons
Sea salt (optional)
seasoninga pinch
Method
Boil water with ginger and pepper
PT5MIn a medium saucepan, bring the water, ginger slices, and black peppercorns to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Add the tea
PT3MAdd the tea leaves or tea bags to the pan and let it steep for 2 to 3 minutes, depending on how strong you like it.
Strain and blend with butter
PT1MStrain the tea mixture into a blender or deep bowl. Add the butter and, if using, a pinch of salt. Blend on low speed for about 30 seconds until the tea becomes frothy and creamy. If you prefer, you can also mix using a traditional churn or whisk briskly for a full minute.
Serve hot
PT0MPour the butter tea immediately into cups or mugs. The froth will sit on top like a creamy hat. This is best enjoyed hot—take a moment to breathe in the spicy aroma before sipping.
Equipment
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Nutrition facts
Tips
- For a very smooth drink, let the brewed tea cool for a minute before blending so the hot liquid doesn’t splatter. Fresh ginger has a short fridge life, so freeze any extra sliced ginger for future cups.
- For the fullest aroma, crack the peppercorns slightly with the back of a spoon before adding them to the water—this also makes the tea a bit easier on your throat.
Serving suggestions
- Serve this butter tea alongside crusty bread, or with a traditional, simple meal like tsampa or plain buttered toast. Fill each mug only halfway and tell your guests to sip the froth first for the loveliest taste.
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Recipe by
Sita Thapa
Specialises in Nepalese cuisineSita is a dal bhat specialist. She says the secret is burning the garlic just a little.
Describe yourself in three words: Warm, laughing, generous portions.