The Perfect Pair: Food Pairings for The Way of Tea Gift Set
Tea is an incredible beverage, offering a range of health benefits and a diverse flavour profile. Depending on the type of tea, it can have a vastly differing flavour profile from fruity and floral, to malty and earthy or even spicy. The right food pairing can complement these flavours and greatly enhance your tea-drinking experience. In this post, we explore the best food pairings for the six teas included in The Way of Tea set.
1. Peregrine Mountain 1st Flush
Peregrine Mountain 1st Flush tea is a prized black tea from Yunnan, China with a sweet malty flavour. Caramel or chocolate-based desserts complement the natural sweetness of the tea. Try pairing salted caramel truffles or a decadent chocolate fondant with a cup of Peregrine for a delightful explosion of flavours.
2. Margaret's Hope Darjeeling
Margaret's Hope Darjeeling tea has a light and fruity flavour with a distinct note of muscatel grapes, making it the perfect afternoon tea. Pair it with classic dishes such as Victoria sponge or madeleines, or opt for a sweet and savoury mix, such as cucumber sandwiches with a hint of mint.
3. Tie Guan Yin
Tie Guan Yin is a Chinese oolong tea with a floral and fruity flavour and a hint of nuttiness. The tea pairs well with both sweet and savoury foods. For a savoury pairing, try white meats or an asian stir fry, as Tie Guan Yin holds up surprisingly well to spice. For a sweet pairing, opt for honey cakes, caramelised fruit tarts or an apple crumble with a dollop of cream.
4. Long Jing Dragon Well
Long Jing Dragon Well green tea has a delicate and mellow flavour with hints of chestnut. It's a perfect palate cleanser and pairs well with salads and light dishes. Why not try using it as a base for vinaigrettes or drink it on its own to refresh your senses.
5. Sencha Organic Green
Sencha is a Japanese green tea with a bold, grassy flavour and a hint of bitterness. Pair it with seafood dishes such as sushi, sashimi, and seaweed thins to enhance the umami flavours. The tea's bold flavours also pair well with spicy dishes such as Thai chilli vegetable rice and spicy crab cakes.
6. Yin Zhen 'Silver Needle' Organic
Yin Zhen 'Silver Needle' Organic white tea has a delicate and refreshing flavour with a hint of nuttiness. Pair it with nut-based desserts such as nut brittle or baklava for a delightful contrast. Alternatively, enjoy it on its own to appreciate the delicate nuances of flavour.
Experimentation is Key
Taste is a personal preference, and there are no right or wrong food pairings. Experiment with the pairings outlined here and try out new combinations to discover your personal preferences. For instance, try serving various types of tea with a selection of finger sandwiches and small cakes and chocolates to see which pairing you enjoy best.
Conclusion
When paired with the right food, tea can reveal its full flavour potential, and the right pairing can enhance your overall dining experience. The six pairings outlined here are just a starting point - there are many more to try. The key is to have fun, experiment, and explore the world of tea and food pairings. We invite you to try our suggestions and share your own discoveries with us.