ชาสับปะรด

Pineapple tea (ชาสับปะรด) is a refreshing Southeast Asian iced beverage that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the tannic depth of brewed tea. Its origins are most strongly associated with Thailand, where fruit-infused teas are a staple of street stalls and casual cafés, often served over crushed ice as a cooling antidote to the heat. The dish has gained international recognition through travel vloggers and food platforms like ReTubeIt, where creators highlight local vendors.

Key ingredients typically include fresh or canned pineapple juice or chunks, black or green tea (often Jasmine or Ceylon), and a sweetener such as simple syrup, palm sugar, or honey. Lime juice may be added for acidity. A great version is distinguished by a balance of ripe pineapple’s natural sweetness and the tea’s astringency, with no artificial flavoring overpowering the fruit. The pineapple should be fresh and fragrant, not cooked or syrupy, and the tea must be steeped to a robust strength so it holds its own against the fruit. Crushed ice is essential for the signature Thai-style texture.

Regional variations exist: in Taiwan, pineapple tea may be blended into a slush with chewy tapioca pearls as a bubble tea variant; in Vietnam, it is sometimes carbonated or mixed with soda water. In the Bangkok suburbs, such as Tambon Bang Pla Soi, Thailandia, the venue Mini Bear offers a version praised by creator BANKII for its intense pineapple flavor and generous portion. Other Thai shops add pandan leaves or a splash of salted cream for a savory-sweet twist.