Throughout the world, tea has been fostering communities and bridging gaps, not forgetting that it is a sign of hospitality. It also boasts a multitude of health benefits. Such are the magical powers of a cup of tea. Considered to be the second most popular beverage in the world after water, tea is not only meant to be consumed but it’s an experience as well.
Even though choosing the best tea is quite subjective, here’s a guide for the avid tea drinker.
Black Tea: Sticking to tradition
Considered to be the most popular and truest tea, many tea-goers enjoy black tea for its bold and earthy flavors which is similar to coffee. It has the highest amount of caffeine compared to other teas and can be enjoyed with milk, sugar and, in some countries, mint. It’s also the base for many tea blends such as Earl Grey.
No one knows their tea quite like the English, so enjoy an afternoon tea in Britain along with a delicious scone. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a scenic hike through Sri Lanka’s tea-covered fields and taste their delicious Ceylon tea.
Green Tea: The health booster
Green tea is regarded as one of the healthiest teas in the world due to its high concentration of antioxidants; it’s considered a weight loss aid, speeds up metabolism and helps you stay alert. It pairs well with lemon, honey, and mint.
Japan is widely famous for its green teas, specifically Matcha and Sencha. Matcha has recently gained popularity in the west as a coffee replacement. But for the best benefits of Matcha tea, drink it the Japanese way by mixing it with hot water instead of the endless sugar and milk added in the west.
Oolong Tea: The best of both worlds
Oolong tea is considered to be a medium between Black and Green tea… mixing the benefits of both. According to professionals at the World Tea Directory, Oolong tea boasts an array of health benefits, which include reducing stress and heart disease, aiding weight loss, promoting healthier skin, and so much more. The majority of high-quality Oolong teas, ranging from smoky flavors to fruity ones, come from China, where the tea culture is the oldest in the world.
White Tea: Simple and Delicate
If you prefer a more subtle flavor, white tea is your best bet due to being the least processed tea. Silver Needle is subtle and sweet, while White Peony is bolder in flavor. You can never go wrong with a nice cup of white tea, and the savory experience that comes with it.
Masala Chai Tea: Spice it up!
For a spicy, creamy and aromatic cup of tea, India’s finest Masala Chai will do the trick. It’s black tea mixed with milk and an array of spices including cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The traditionally prepared Chai is much healthier than the heavily sweetened coffee-chain one.
Moroccan Mint: Tea with a show
For an authentic tea experience, Morocco is where to go. It’s famous for its mint tea, which is to be consumed three times, each cup stronger than the previous one. To create a frothy layer of foam, the pourer must pour it at least one foot away from the cup.
Yerba Mate: Creating communities
Extremely popular in South America, especially Argentina and Uruguay, Yerba Mate is not only meant to be sipped but to be shared among a group. Its dried leaves are steeped in hot water, poured into an emptied gourd (a pumpkin-like fruit) and consumed with a metal hollow straw. Yerba Mate is an extremely caffeinated tea, similar to coffee, and known to boost energy. It’s an acquired taste as its flavor is bitter, yet earthy and smoky.
Around the World with Tea
And there you have it! With the wide array of tea types we have selected for you, there will never be a dull moment when embarking on your drinking journey. Sampling more than one kind, it’s almost like taking a trip around the world. Selecting the best tea might seem like a daunting task; however, the experience and the journey will be quite enjoyable. So bottoms up!
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