Shay, a traditional milk tea, originates from regions like Tibet and Mongolia, where it's a staple beverage cherished for its rich flavor and nourishing qualities. The recipe typically involves brewing strong black tea, often combined with yak or cow milk for creaminess. What sets Shay apart is its unique variations, sometimes flavored with a hint of salt for balance or a touch of butter for richness. This concoction reflects the nomadic lifestyle of these regions, where hearty ingredients were prized for their ability to sustain in harsh environments. Over time, Shay has gained popularity beyond its place of origin, captivating tea enthusiasts worldwide with its distinct taste and cultural significance.

Ingredients:

- Black tea leaves

- Milk (yak or cow)

- Salt (optional)

- Butter (optional)

Method:

1. Boil water in a pot.

2. Add black tea leaves to the boiling water and let it steep for 3-5 minutes.

3. Strain the tea into a separate container.

4. In another pot, heat milk until it's warm.

5. Pour the brewed tea into the warm milk.

6. Add a pinch of salt for flavor if desired.

7. Optionally, stir in a small amount of butter for richness.

8. Serve hot and enjoy your traditional Shay milk tea!

Nutrition Value:

1. Black tea leaves:

  - Calories: Approximately 2 calories per 1 teaspoon (2 grams)

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamins B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), and folate.

  - Minerals: Contains trace amounts of manganese, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

  - Nutritional benefits: Black tea leaves are rich in antioxidants called polyphenols, which have been associated with various health benefits, including improved heart health, better digestion, and potentially reduced risk of certain cancers. They also contain caffeine, which can provide a mild energy boost and improve mental alertness.

2. Milk (yak or cow):

  - Nutritional values may vary depending on the type of milk used (whole, skim, etc.), but for general reference:

  - Calories: Approximately 80-150 calories per cup (240 ml), depending on the fat content.

  - Carbohydrates: Around 12-13 grams per cup, mostly in the form of lactose.

  - Protein: Approximately 8 grams per cup.

  - Fat: Varies depending on the fat content of the milk. Whole milk contains around 8 grams of fat per cup.

  - Sodium: Around 100-130 mg per cup.

  - Cholesterol: Around 24-35 mg per cup.

  - Vitamins: Milk is a good source of vitamins A, D, and B12, as well as riboflavin (B2) and calcium.

  - Minerals: Contains calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and small amounts of magnesium.

  - Nutritional benefits: Milk is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. It also provides high-quality protein and a range of vitamins and minerals necessary for overall health.

3. Salt (optional):

  - Salt doesn't contribute significantly to caloric intake.

  - It's mainly sodium chloride.

  - Nutritional benefits: While excessive salt consumption can have negative health effects, consuming it in moderation can enhance the flavor of food and contribute to electrolyte balance in the body.

4. Butter (optional):

  - Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories per tablespoon (14 grams), depending on the type of butter (salted, unsalted, etc.).

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible, less than 1 gram per tablespoon.

  - Protein: Negligible, less than 1 gram per tablespoon.

  - Fat: Approximately 11-12 grams per tablespoon.

  - Sodium: Varies depending on whether it's salted butter or unsalted butter.

  - Cholesterol: Around 30-35 mg per tablespoon.

  - Vitamins: Butter contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as small amounts of B vitamins like riboflavin (B2) and niacin (B3).

  - Minerals: Contains trace amounts of calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.

  - Nutritional benefits: Butter adds richness and flavor to dishes. It provides fat-soluble vitamins and healthy fats, though it should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.