Exploring the World of Tea: Types and Recipes

Tea, the world's most consumed beverage after water, comes in a myriad of varieties and boasts a rich cultural heritage across different countries. From the light and refreshing green tea to the robust and flavorful black tea, there is a multitude of ways to enjoy this beloved drink. In this article, we'll explore the different types of tea and share two unique recipes: Chocolate Tea and Arjun Chhal Tea.

Green Tea: Deactivating Enzymes for Ultimate Flavor

Green tea leaves contain enzymes that start to oxidize when exposed to air. To prevent this, green tea is steamed, pan-fried, or tumble-fried at around 65°C to deactivate the enzymes, preserving the leaf's vibrant green color and delicate flavor. After this, the leaves are either rolled or dried, a step that can vary depending on the tea producer. Each step can be modified to achieve different flavors and health benefits.

Black Tea: Full Oxidation for Intense Flavors

Black tea undergoes full oxidation, which transforms its flavor and appearance. The process begins with withering the leaves for 12–25 hours, depending on air temperature and humidity. Next, the leaves are rolled to rupture the cells, initiating full oxidation, which typically lasts for 2–4 hours. Once the oxidation is complete, the leaves are dried or roasted until they are fully dry, leading to a strong and bold flavor.

Oolong Tea: Versatile with a Range of Oxidation Levels

Oolong tea is versatile, with its level of oxidation ranging from 10% to 80%. The leaves undergo withering and are intermittently tossed to regulate moisture and stimulate oxidation. Depending on the type of oolong, rolling may take place before or after deactivating the enzymes to stop further oxidation. Green oolongs are fixed immediately after the initial withering and tossing to maintain their green color, while those closer to black teas go through a process more similar to black tea but with adjusted times.

Creating Unique Tea Variants with Fun and Health Benefits

The world of tea extends beyond the traditional black, green, and oolong varieties. Here are two unique and delightful recipes for you to try:

Chocolate Tea: Refreshing and Indulgent

Sometimes, we mix our regular tea with chocolate powder for a simple and enjoyable twist. Here's a quick recipe:

Prepare your regular tea as usual. Drizzle or add Eclaire or Melody Chocolate powder at the end of steeping. Enjoy the delightful blend of tea and chocolate.

This recipe is not only fun and easy to make, but it also adds a rich and satisfying flavor to your tea.

Arjun Chhal Tea: Heart-Healthy Delight for the Soul

Arjun Chhal tea, made from the powdered bark of the Terminalia Arjuna tree, offers numerous health benefits. Here's a simple recipe:

Boil half a teaspoon of Arjun Chhal powder in a cup of water. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes. Add tea leaves, sugar, and milk to taste. Strain the mixture and serve hot.

Arjun Chhal tea is known to lower blood pressure and work as a blood thinner, making it beneficial for heart health. Omitting the tea leaves can make the drink even more healthy, turning it into a refreshing and heart-friendly beverage.