Unpacking the Taste and Popularity of Assam Tea with Milk

From Leaf to Cup: Assam’s Tea Legacy

You may have heard of the name Assam tea as it is one of the main players in bubble tea. However, you may not know that the name derives from the largest producing area in India. The second largest producing area is Southern China. The British introduced the Camellia sinensis plant to Assam's fertile plains. Since then, Assam has flourished as one of the world's major tea producers.

The captivating history of Assam tea traces its origins back to 1823 when British planters discovered indigenous tea plants in the lush landscapes of Assam, India. Recognised as the “Cradle of the tea industry,” Assam quickly became a pivotal player in the global tea market. The British colonial government initiated the tea plantation industry in Assam, utilising the fertile plains of the Brahmaputra River. In 1839, Assam tea was introduced by the British East India Company which then started the large-scale production of tea. The discovery of the indigenous tea plant marked a significant economic turning point, leading Assam to contribute around 55% of India's total tea production.

 

Defining the Flavour: Assam Tea’s Unique Taste

What sets Assam tea apart is its bold and robust flavour, a result of the region's unique climate and soil. The tea leaves thrive in the lowland plains of the Brahmaputra River, benefiting from the region's rich biodiversity. The region's tropical climate, high precipitation and rich soil create an optimal environment for tea cultivation, imparting a boldness and richness to the leaves. They are usually hand-picked according to size, colour, aroma etc. and partially fermented, giving it a deep and robust flavour. The higher percentage of tannins and natural oils in Assam tea also contribute to its full-bodied nature, making it an ideal companion for the addition of milk.

 

Art of Brewing: Perfecting Assam Tea with Milk

To truly appreciate the essence of Assam tea, mastering the art of brewing is essential.

The recommended ratio for brewing Assam Black Tea for milk tea is 1g of tea leaves: 30ml of boiled water. Before brewing you can use a spatula to gently press down on the tea leaves to mix them with the water more thoroughly. Brew the tea for 15-20 minutes. Then, strain the tea leaf without pressing it. It is advised to use the brewed tea within 4-6 hours. Here is a video on brewing our Assam Black Tea.

Avoid common mistakes, such as over-brewing, which can result in a bitter taste. Pay attention to the water temperature, as boiling water can scald the delicate tea leaves. It is advised to experiment with water-to-tea ratios to find the perfect balance that suits your taste preferences.

 

Beyond the Sip: Health Benefits of Assam Tea

The tea also contains caffeine, providing a natural energy boost and enhancing alertness. Assam black tea also features essential oils that contribute to its signature malty and brisk taste and have traces of minerals like potassium and magnesium. This composition may vary, influenced by factors such as the tea estate and processing methods. Together, these components make Assam black tea a flavourful and healthy choice of tea.

Assam tea is a source of essential nutrients, rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. According to the ‘Molecular Aspects of Medicine’ article, both green and black teas contain flavonoids which may be associated with a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease. The presence of flavonoids, a type of polyphenol, is associated with improved endothelial functions and contributes to their anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and antiviral properties.

Regular consumption has been associated with improved digestion, enhanced cognitive function, and a boosted immune system. It is said to work best when drinking after a meal to improve digestion or adding ginger to relieve stomach cramps for women.

 

Around the Globe: Worldwide Love for Assam Tea with Milk

Assam tea’s distinct flavour, when combined with milk, has become a staple in many cultures. It is used in the famous English breakfast tea, Irish breakfast tea, Earl grey tea and masala chai tea. The versatility of Assam tea with milk allows for a myriad of interpretations, making it a truly global indulgence.

Assam tea's popularity spread globally through a combination of historical, economic and cultural factors. Initially introduced to the world by British colonial planters in the 19th century and as the tea industry in Assam flourished, it became an integral part of British culture and tea-drinking traditions. This rich heritage extends into contemporary trends including its prominent role in the world of bubble tea in the UK and beyond. Given our specialisation in bubble tea, we are dedicated to offering a diverse selection, including various versions of Assam black tea and other tea varieties. This commitment ensures that our customers have a myriad of choices, allowing them to discover the perfect tea that suits them best.