Thai Iced Tea

Instructions

1. Brew the tea
   In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the Thai tea mix, sugar, star anise, and cardamom pods. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. Reduce heat and simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
2. Strain the tea
   Remove from heat and let the tea steep for another 5 minutes. Strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher to remove all tea leaves and spices. Add vanilla extract if using, and allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare serving glasses
   Fill tall glasses with ice cubes, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Pour the cooled tea mixture over the ice, filling each glass about ¾ full.
4. Add the creamy layer
   In a small bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk. Gently pour this mixture over the tea in each glass, creating a distinctive layered effect. The milk will gradually mix with the tea as it's stirred.
5. Serve and enjoy
   Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately with a straw for stirring. The drink should be mixed before consuming to blend the creamy layer with the tea.