Hakka Lei Cha (Thunder Tea Rice)
Hakka Lei Cha, also known as Thunder Tea Rice, is a traditional Hakka dish featuring a bowl of rice topped with various vegetables, nuts, and tofu, all drenched in a savory, herb-infused tea soup. It's a healthy and flavorful meal with a unique, acquired taste.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Tea leaves (green or oolong)
- 1 cup Roasted peanuts
- 3 tablespoons Toasted sesame seeds
- 2 cups Basil leaves
- 2 cups Mint leaves
- 0.5 cup Cilantro(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon White pepper
- 5 cups Water(divided (1 cup cold, 4 cups boiling))
- 4 cups Cooked rice(for serving)
- 2 cups Assorted vegetables(e.g., blanched choy sum, long beans, preserved radish, stir-fried tofu cubes)
- 0.5 cup Additional roasted peanuts(for topping)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a dry pan, lightly toast tea leaves, peanuts, and sesame seeds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- 2
In a blender, combine the toasted tea leaves, peanuts, sesame seeds, basil, mint, cilantro, and garlic. Add 1 cup of cold water and blend until a smooth paste forms. You may need to add a little more water to achieve the desired consistency.
💡 Tip: If you don't have a blender, a mortar and pestle can be used, though it will require significant effort. - 3
Transfer the paste to a pot. Add 4 cups of boiling water, salt, and white pepper. Whisk well and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 4
Prepare the toppings: stir-fry or blanch your chosen vegetables (like choy sum, long beans, preserved radish) and tofu. Season them lightly.
- 5
To serve, place a portion of cooked rice in a deep bowl or platter. Arrange the prepared vegetables and tofu over the rice. Sprinkle with additional roasted peanuts.
💡 Tip: The toppings can be varied based on personal preference and availability. - 6
Ladle the hot Lei Cha soup over the rice and toppings. Serve immediately.
💡 Tip: The taste of Lei Cha is an acquired one; it can be slightly bitter and herbaceous. Adjust salt to your liking.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality of tea leaves and herbs significantly impacts the flavor.
- ✓Ensure all ingredients for the paste are finely ground for a smooth soup.
- ✓Lei Cha is often served with a variety of side dishes, so feel free to add more components.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include dried shrimp or other savory elements in the tea paste.
- Sweetened versions exist, where sugar is added to the soup.
- For a quicker preparation, pre-made Lei Cha paste can sometimes be found in specialty stores.