A Guide to Ordering Teh Tarik in Malaysia and Singapore

Malaysia’s Famous Coffee and Tea Drinks

Originating from Malaysia, the tea concoction known as teh tarik holds a special place in the hearts of Southeast Asians and is famous worldwide.

Teh tarik literally means “pulled tea,” which is precisely what tea attendants in Malaysian kopitiam and mamak stalls do to craft this drink. Black tea, sugar, and condensed milk are combined and then poured through the air between two cups until it achieves a rich, frothy texture. Skilled teh tarik artists manage to never spill a drop!

The tea-pulling process is more than mere showmanship; moreover, it cools the tea and produces a delightful foamy head. Successive pours bring out the full flavor of the tea combined with milk, creating an intensely satisfying beverage. Teh tarik is typically served in a clear glass to let patrons admire the perfect mixture.

A Teh Tarik Culture

Malaysians take great pride in their renowned tea drink. Teh tarik has not only found its way into the hearts of locals but has also been exported to Singapore, Indonesia, and beyond.

Importantly, the culture surrounding teh tarik is as significant as the drink itself. Locals gather in kopitiam (traditional coffee shops in Singapore and Malaysia) and mamak restaurants, run by Indian Muslims, to socialize, share stories, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while their teh tarik is poured.

The ubiquitous roti canai—a thin bread served with a delicious dipping sauce—perfectly complements the sweetness of teh tarik.

Teh tarik was officially recognized by the Malaysian government as an important aspect of the country’s food heritage. Annual competitions in Kuala Lumpur showcase the skill of those who pour the perfect teh tarik without spilling a single drop.

Other Malaysian Tea Drinks

While teh tarik is undoubtedly the most celebrated, visitors unfamiliar with the Malaysian kopitiam menu may find other common drinks perplexing. It’s important to note that unless specified, drinks are often served significantly sweeter than Western standards.

To order like a local, simply ask for one of the following when in a kopitiam, and don’t be surprised when the order-taker relays it loudly to the tea counter:

• Kopi o kosong: Plain, black coffee served hot and strong.
• Kopi: Coffee with both milk and sugar.
• Kopi o: Hot coffee sweetened with sugar.
• Kopi o peng: Iced, sweet coffee.
• Kopi c: Coffee with evaporated milk and sugar.
• Teh: Hot tea with milk and sugar.
• Teh o: Hot tea sweetened with sugar.
• Teh o peng: Iced tea with sugar.
• Teh halia: Teh tarik with ginger, commonly enjoyed for its warming properties when feeling cold or unwell.

Milk, Sugar, and Ice

By default, sugar and some form of milk are added to most Malaysian coffee and tea drinks. Drinks are typically served hot unless you specify “peng,” which indicates a chilled beverage served over ice.

To ensure you receive your desired beverage, consider adding these terms to your order:

• For no sugar: tidak mau gula (pronounced “tee-dak maw goolah”)
• For no milk: tidak mau susu (pronounced “tee-dak maw soozoo”)
• “Kosong” means empty or plain, ensuring both milk and sugar are omitted.
• For iced coffee and tea, simply add peng (pronounced “ping”).

Make Your Own Teh Tarik at Home

While you may create a bit of a mess compared to the professionals at Mamak stalls, making teh tarik at home is straightforward and fun.

1. Add 4 tablespoons of powdered black tea to boiling water; let it brew for five minutes.
2. Filter the tea into a separate glass, then add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 4 tablespoons of condensed milk.
3. Pour the tea between two glasses until it becomes thick and foamy on top.
4. Serve hot in a clear glass, ideally accompanied by good conversation for a complete experience.