Coming from Brazil, where tea isn’t a staple and coffee dominates, moving to England in 2017 unexpectedly changed my daily rituals. Growing up in a tropical country, I associate drinks with scorching hot days, always reaching for something cold. But England introduced me to the world of tea, and autumn became the perfect season to embrace its warmth. From discovering cacao tea to indulging in traditional English Breakfast tea, here’s a look into my favourite teas and the fascinating facts about English tea traditions.
From Coffee to Tea: My Journey into the World of Tea
Before delving into traditional English teas, let me share a recent discovery I encountered through my work with cacao-based products, which has quickly become one of my favourites: cacao tea. Made from the outer shells of cacao beans, this unique tea is naturally rich in antioxidants and has a subtle chocolate aroma that adds to its appeal. What makes cacao tea stand out is that it delivers all the health benefits of cacao without the need for added sugar or processing. It’s packed with magnesium, supports heart health, and helps promote relaxation – making it an excellent, guilt-free indulgence.
If you’re seeking a caffeine-free tea that’s still energising, cacao tea is the perfect choice. Its earthy tones and gentle sweetness offer a soothing, balanced flavour, making it a great alternative to traditional teas. As the seasons change and the days grow cooler, a cup of cacao tea brings warmth, comfort, and a nourishing boost to your daily routine.
English Breakfast with a Dash of Milk: The Quintessential British Experience
Living in England, I couldn’t escape the charm of English tea with a dash of milk. There’s a certain simplicity to it that feels almost ceremonial – the strong brew, steeped to perfection, and a splash of milk that softens its edge. One of my favourite brands for this is Yorkshire Tea, which is known for its rich and robust flavour. It’s one of the first tea traditions I embraced here, and I now fully understand why it’s a daily staple for so many.
Adding milk to tea may seem like a small detail, but it’s a cornerstone of British tea culture, dating back centuries. For me, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a cosy autumn afternoon, whether enjoyed with a buttery shortbread or simply on its own.
Chocolate, Rooibos & Vanilla : A Sweet and Comforting Blend
For those moments when I crave something a little sweeter, chocolate and vanilla rooibos tea offers a delightful treat. Rooibos, a naturally caffeine-free tea from South Africa, has a mild, sweet flavour on its own. Still, the added chocolate and vanilla make it feel like an indulgence without being overly rich.
This is the tea I reach for on chilly evenings, allowing the smooth blend to provide warmth and comfort. It’s a perfect dessert tea and pairs beautifully with autumn evenings spent by the fire.
Rooibos Tea: My go-to choice when I want to avoid caffeine
Of course, rooibos on its own is just as fantastic. With its deep red colour and slightly nutty flavour, pure rooibos is an everyday staple I can enjoy anytime. Since it’s naturally caffeine-free, it’s my go-to choice when I want to avoid caffeine, especially during my pregnancy. Rooibos is great for evenings and has natural properties that support everything from digestion to skin health.
For me, rooibos reflects simplicity and versatility. Whether I want to keep things basic or add a sweetener, it never disappoints. Its comforting qualities make it the perfect tea for relaxing or unwinding after a long day.
Curiosities About English Afternoon Tea
Since moving to England, one of my fondest memories was introducing my family to afternoon tea at Wentworth Woodhouse in South Yorkshire. Sitting down to a beautifully arranged spread of scones, sandwiches, and delicate cakes was not just about the food – it was about experiencing a piece of English culture. The tradition of afternoon tea dates back to the 19th century, when Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, began hosting tea and snacks to stave off hunger before dinner. This delightful ritual involves enjoying a pot of tea or trying more than one pot of tea, if you wish, accompanied by an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and pastries. It transformed social gatherings and remains a beloved custom today, offering a pause in the day to indulge and converse.
Moreover, brewing and enjoying tea is often seen as a moment of mindfulness amidst a busy lifestyle. For many, it is a comforting routine that fosters relaxation and connection with family and friends. Tea embodies warmth, hospitality, and the quintessential British spirit, whether shared over a leisurely afternoon or during a quick break.
Interestingly, when I first heard “tea time,” I always assumed it was just for afternoon tea. However, I later discovered that “tea” also refers to dinner in many parts of England, especially in the north! It’s a charming quirk that adds to the rich tapestry of English tea traditions.
My move to England has transformed the way I think about tea, from discovering the health benefits of cacao tea to enjoying traditional English Breakfast tea. Each season brings new opportunities to experiment with flavours, but autumn is undoubtedly my favourite time to indulge in a warm cuppa.
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