Africa Tea sampler
Embark on a journey to discover the vibrant tea culture that thrives across the diverse landscapes of Africa. This vast continent, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, is also home to a wide array of teas that are beloved by locals and revered globally.
From the highlands of Kenya to the lush fields of Malawi, each region cultivates its unique blends, reflecting the local traditions and flavors.
Red Rooibos, or Red Bush Tea, is a caffeine-free drink from South Africa‘s Cederberg region, made from the oxidized leaves of the native Aspalathus linearis shrub. This process gives the tea its red color and earthy flavor.
Red Rooibos is popular worldwide for its taste and health benefits, including its high antioxidant content that supports immune function and overall health. It also contains minerals beneficial for bone and dental health.
Green Rooibos is a caffeine-free beverage from South Africa’s Cederberg region, made from unoxidized Aspalathus linearis leaves, giving it a light color and delicate, grassy flavor.
It’s popular for its taste and numerous health benefits, as it’s rich in antioxidants that boost the immune system and overall health. Green Rooibos has higher antioxidant levels than Red Rooibos, making it a health-conscious choice.
Hibiscus tea is a popular drink in North Africa and the Sahel region, known for its tart flavor and sweet floral notes. This vibrant red tea is served hot or iced, with street vendors in Egypt often selling the iced version. In Sudan, it’s customary to serve hibiscus tea to guests, with the flowers soaked in water for two days before brewing.
Hibiscus tea is made by steeping dried flowers in boiling water for several hours, then straining to remove solids. The hot version has a stronger flavor.
Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which can reduce free radicals in the body and may help prevent illnesses and cancer. Made from the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant, this fragrant, exotic beverage is often blended with tropical fruits and herbs, creating a bright red infusion. Its unique flavor and health benefits make it a delightful choice for tea lovers.
Kenyan Purple Tea is a unique variety of tea that is grown in Kenya. It is known for its distinctive purple leaves, which are a result of a natural mutation in the tea plant that increases its anthocyanin content, giving it a vibrant purple color.
Kenyan Purple Tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also believed to have higher levels of polyphenols compared to green or black tea, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.The tea has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a smooth finish. It can be enjoyed hot or cold and pairs well with a variety of flavors, including fruits, herbs, and spices. The tea is also versatile and can be used to make a variety of beverages, including lattes, iced teas, and cocktails.
These are just a few of the types of teas grown in Africa and enjoyed around the world. We have included three of our favorites from Africa for you to enjoy. Once you try these you will be hooked. However, if you want to indulge your senses and palate further, Nature's Tea Company has even more teas from Africa you can purchase and enjoy.
Happy sipping :)