Spill the Global Tea
We’re going on a tea tour!
Tea is the most ubiquitous beverage around the world, the humble tea wears a million different hats. Steeped in local culture and tastes, it is made and mixed with all manner of milks, spices, and herbs. Now come with me with as we take a world tour through the art of tea.
Taking it to Tik Tok
I, like most of us, have found Tik Tok during quarantine and have lost an unmentionable number of hours scrolling through my feed (there also has been no mastery of the dancing so don’t even ask). I’ve landed on some amazing gems from around the world and I’m excited to share with you the best of Tea Tok.
Chai•South Asia
Chai (meaning ‘tea’) is found throughout South Asia. Made with tea, ginger, and spices and mixed with milk, there are endless variations based on region, spices, and personal preference. Here Kevin (aka crossculturechristian) walks us through a quintessential chai recipe.
The Samovar•Eastern Europe
Originating in Russia, the samovar is actually the name of the metal container. In the very center is the smokestack with wood and herbs. Modern samovars have an electric coil in the center. The water comes to a boil and is poured out the front to brew a pot of very strong tea. When served, each person can then dilute with the hot water as they desire.
Mint Tea•Morocco
Proper Moroccan mint tea is prepared with gunpowder tea and requires a series of pourings. Hajar walks us through the sequence here. A healthy dose of mint and sugar make this a strong but delicious beverage. Thyme can also be added for a whole additional taste dimension
Bubble Tea•Taiwan
This one definitely has circled the globe. Also called ‘boba’ or ’pearl milk tea’, the secret to this milk tea are the ‘bubbles’, which are actually made from tapioca starch. The balls are boiled and then stepped in caramelized sugar until they become springy and chewy. The classic milk tea is black tea shaken with milk and then pearls are added. All manner of variations exist, including adding fruit, drinking with cold teas, and even adding chocolate and pudding.
Matcha Tea•Japan
Matcha is a very fine green tea powder made from specially grown green tea leaves.
Tea in Japan can be highly elaborate. Here, matcha is prepared in the traditional way. Matcha is scooped into a bowl using a chashaku and mixed with warm water. It is then frothed using a special bamboo whisk, called a chasen. More water is added and the drink is enjoyed.
Teh Tarik•Southeast Asia
Teh Tarik is a popular milk tea throughout Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Brunei. Meaning “pulled tea,” the name comes from the process of pouring the tea back and forth between two cups. It gives the drink a silky, frothy feel.
