Literally translated from Mandarin “yuanyang” refers to two mandarin ducks that are usually in pairs, male and female. Yuanyang also refers to the pairing of a Hong Kong speciality coffee and milk tea hybrid that can be served hot or cold.
Don’t forget that Hong Kong was a British territory from 1842 until 1997 when it was handed back to the Chinese government.
The fusion of both of these cultures is best represented in this Hong Kong style milk tea served each morning for breakfast. Milk tea is typically made from a strong Ceylon black tea to which evaporated milk and sugar is added.
We had a couple of variations of this tea when we visited the landmark café, Lan Fong Yuen, in the Central area of Hong Kong Island. My favorite was the iced version of yuanyang made with sweetened milk tea and strong brewed coffee. A drinkable dessert of sorts. The yuanyang was served with a coconut jam toasted sandwich topped with honey. Sugar overload but oh so good.
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