A Bowl Of Contrasts
The toppings should give you crunch, softness, salt and freshness in every spoonful. Brown rice is common, but the variety and seasoning of the vegetables matter more than the grain.
Meeting The Green Broth
The soup can taste minty, basil-like, nutty and gently bitter. Try a sip first, then add it gradually if this is your first bowl.
Quick answers
- Is lei cha always vegetarian?
- It is often vegetarian and naturally vegetable-forward, but some stalls use dried shrimp or non-vegetarian seasoning. Ask the outlet if that matters to you.
- Does thunder tea rice contain caffeine?
- Recipes vary. The broth may include tea leaves alongside herbs and nuts, but the amount is usually small compared with a cup of tea.