Ang Cho Tea: Nourishing Red Dates and Longan Tea

Ang Cho Tea (photo by JenniferW)

A Cup of Blessings for New Beginnings

In many Peranakan homes, the first morning of Chinese New Year begins with a simple yet meaningful ritual; serving a warm cup of Ang Cho Tea to the elders of the family. Traditionally, the daughter in-law would prepare this tea and present it first to her grandmother and mother in-law, always accompanied by a a plate of colourful Peranakan kueh.

Though not widely recorded in books, this practice carries deep symbolic meaning. The name “ang cho” (red dates) is tied to blessings of harmony, unity, and sweetness in the year ahead. Serving this tea is not only a gesture of respect, but way of wishing the family health, happiness, and good fortune.

Today, Ang. Cho Tea continues to be enjoyed as a gentle, comforting drink, perfect for on festive days like Chinese New Year, wedding tea ceremony, or any time you wish to share a cup of warmth and blessings with loved ones.

This comforting mildly sweet tea is also a beloved traditional drink across many Asian cultures. It is not just soothing and aromatic, but also believed to be good for your health, especially for boosting energy and circulation. I love making a big pot of this and sipping it warm on rainy days or enjoying cold from fridge in warmer weather. As for me, I always drink it on the first day of Chinese New Year with the Kueh Bangkit and Matcha Madeleine.

Here is my simple, tried and true version.

Ingredients

80g red dates
100g dried longan
100g rock sugar
2 litres water

Method

1. Wash the Ingredients

Rinse the red dates and dried longan thoroughly.

Tip: Go for large red dates and fresh dried longan, these really elevate the flavour. If you happen to be in Thailand, I highly recommend picking up dried longan from Or Tor Kor Fresh Market. They are incredible fragrant and naturally sweet.

2. Simmer the Tea

In a large pot, bring 2 litres of water to a boil. Add the red dates and dried longan. Simmer gently over medium heat for about 30 minutes to let the flavours infuse.

3. Sweeten

Add the rock sugar and stir until it fully dissolves. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar.

4. Serve

Turn off the heat. Serve the tea warm for a heartwarming treat, or let it cool and enjoy it chilled, it is just as refreshing.

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