Whether you're visiting your grandma in a village or your cousin in a city apartment, the first thing they offer you is a comforting cup of CHAI! Offering tea to guests is a time-honoured tradition symbolising warmth and respect. It is a language spoken by all Indians, a universal symbol of hospitality.
Indians have been sipping on tea for centuries. It's not just a drink, it's a tradition that runs deep. It is a symbol of who we are. It's the reason every street corner has a chai wallah, brewing up cups of community and connection. It's not just about the beverage; it's about the conversations shared over steaming cups, the bonds formed and the moments cherished. In this blog, we will delve into the essence of this cherished tradition as we explore the top five best teas in India.
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Masala tea
In January 2024, TasteAtlas, a food and travel guide, termed India's ‘Masala Chai’ as the world's second-best non-alcoholic beverage for 2023–24. This recognition reaffirms Masala chai’s status as an iconic beverage beloved not only in India but across the world.
Masala tea is an exquisite blend of robust black tea and a medley of spices, creating a flavour that captivates the senses. Beyond its tantalising taste, Masala Chai holds a special place in Indian culture as its versatility allows for endless variations, catering to diverse palates and occasions. Whether shared during a leisurely morning, a lively gathering or a moment of solitude, Masala Chai transcends boundaries, bringing people together and fostering connections that endure beyond the last sip.
Wagh Bakri Tea, one of the best teas in India, also offers Masala chai in the form of Instant tea.
Assam tea
Assam tea stands out as a frontrunner for India's finest tea due to its distinct characteristics and ideal growing environment. It also takes pride of place among the esteemed lineup of Wagh Bakri chai.
Unlike other Indian black teas, Assam boasts a full-bodied, malty flavour with a brisk finish, making it a perfect "breakfast tea" that can hold its own with milk and sugar. This robust profile is a result of the unique climate in Assam's northeastern region. The hot, humid conditions with abundant rainfall create a near-tropical paradise for the native Assamica tea plant, which is key to developing Assam's characteristic malty taste.
While taste preference is subjective in the tea world, Assam tea’s unique flavour makes it a serious contender for the title of India's top tea.
Darjeeling tea
Darjeeling tea is often referred to as the ‘Champagne of Teas’. Unlike Assam tea’s robust character, Darjeeling boasts a delicate and nuanced experience. It grows in the misty mountains of Darjeeling, a beautiful place in West Bengal.
Darjeeling tea can present delicate floral notes, hints of ripe fruit, or even a touch of muscatel grape, offering a delightful surprise with each sip. With its flavour profile and exquisite aroma, it epitomises the cultural affinity towards tea. It's not just a beverage; it's a tradition passed down through generations, cherished in homes, tea stalls and upscale cafes alike.
One of the best tea brands in India, Wagh Bakri offers Pure Darjeeling tea and allows consumers to buy tea online and experience its true essence with every cup.
Kashmiri Kahwa
Kashmiri tea or Kashmiri Kahwa, holds a special place in the traditions of India, particularly in the beautiful region of Kashmir. This aromatic beverage is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of the area. Often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings, it is renowned for its unique taste.
Kashmiri Kahwa is a blend of delicate flavours of green tea with spices such as cardamom, cinnamon and saffron, along with crushed almonds or walnuts. The result is a warm and fragrant brew with a subtle sweetness and a hint of spiciness, creating a truly enchanting sensory experience. To prepare Kashmiri Kahwa, green tea leaves are steeped in hot water along with the spices and nuts, allowing the flavours to infuse together harmoniously. The tea is then strained and served piping hot, often accompanied by a drizzle of honey to enhance its sweetness.
Wagh Bakri Tea offers Shudh Kahwa Green Tea Bags, which provides a delightful alternative for those seeking a flavorful and authentic green tea experience.
Floral tea
India has a rich tradition of using various herbs, spices and flowers in its culinary and medicinal practices, so it's not surprising that floral teas have found their place in the country's tea collection.
One of the most famous floral teas in India is rose tea, particularly in regions like Kashmir, where roses are abundant. Rose tea is made by infusing dried rose petals in hot water, creating a fragrant and slightly sweet beverage. Hibiscus, chamomile, jasmine and peppermint are among the many delightful flavours found in herbal teas, each offering its own unique aroma and taste profile. While floral teas may not be as ingrained in Indian tradition as chai, they offer a unique and aromatic alternative that reflects the country's diverse culinary heritage.
If you're looking to explore some floral teas, you can easily buy tea online to experience their aromatic delights.
Conclusion
In essence, tea in India is not just a drink; it's a historical legacy, a symbol of national identity, a practice rooted in health and well-being and a powerful social connector that continues to evolve and bring people together. In fact, brewing chai is an art form in itself, with each family having their own secret recipe passed down from one generation to the next. It's these little traditions that make chai so special, reminding us of our roots and the values we hold dear. Moreover, while chai remains at the heart of Indian tea culture, other varieties, including ice tea, are gradually making their mark. The refreshing appeal of iced tea is slowly gaining popularity, offering a different experience, particularly in warmer climates.
So the next time you're offered a cup of chai, remember that it's not just a drink – it's a taste of India's rich heritage and a gesture of love and friendship.
FAQs
Which state tea is best in India?
Assam is considered the largest tea-producing state in India and it is known for its strong, malty flavour tea. Shop Wagh Bakri Assam tea on buytea.com.
Which green tea bags are the best to use?
Wagh Bakri green tea offers one of the best green tea bags along with a wide range of flavour options.
What is special about Assam tea?
Assam tea is a black tea from the Indian state of Assam that's known for its full-bodied, malty flavour, deep amber colour and brisk quality.
What is masala tea made of?
Masala chai is made with black tea, spices, sugar and milk. Wagh Bakri Masala tea has cloves, cinnamon, cardamoms, nutmeg, black pepper, ginger and piper longum.
How does rose tea taste?
Rose tea can have a sweet, delicate and refreshing flavour with a floral aroma.
