Tips for Tea

Milk Tea:
Milk tea is a classic favorite, with many variations in its preparation. To make milk tea, combine equal parts milk and water in a pot. Boil the mixture for 4–5 minutes, then add sugar or a sweetener as per your taste. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the flavors are fully blended. Strain the tea into a cup and adjust the sweetness if needed before enjoying.

Masala Tea:
Masala tea is a flavorful and aromatic beverage, perfect for cold or rainy days. Start by boiling milk in a pot. After 1–2 minutes, add spices like cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and a bay leaf. Then, add tea leaves and continue boiling for 5–7 minutes until the milk thickens. Strain the tea into a cup, sweeten it to taste, and serve. This tea is not only comforting but also warming.

Tandoori Tea:
Tandoori tea, known for its smoky flavor, is a modern twist on traditional tea, served in a kulhad (clay cup). Prepare the tea as you would masala tea: boil milk with cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaf, and tea leaves for 5–7 minutes, then strain. Meanwhile, heat a kulhad on a stove until it is hot. Pour the prepared tea into the hot clay cup, allowing it to bubble for a few moments. The smoky aroma of the clay enhances the tea’s flavor, making it a unique experience.

Seven-Layer Tea:
A specialty from Sylhet, this tea features seven distinct layers, each with its own color and flavor. Though the exact recipe is a well-kept secret, the tea is made using different tea leaves of varying densities and tastes. The layers typically include three types of black tea, lemon tea, condensed milk tea, masala tea, and green tea. Invented by Romesh Ram Gour, this tea is a visual and flavorful masterpiece.

Ginger Tea:
Known for its health benefits, ginger tea is simple and soothing. Boil water in a pot with fresh ginger pieces for about 5 minutes. Add tea leaves and continue boiling for another 4–5 minutes. Strain the tea into a cup, sweeten as desired, and serve. Also called rong chaa or black tea, it is particularly effective for throat health and soothing voice issues.

Lemon Tea:
A refreshing and energizing tea with medicinal benefits, lemon tea varies in preparation styles. Boil 2 cups of water for 2–3 minutes, then add a teaspoon of tea and let it simmer until it reaches a light color. In a cup, squeeze ¾ of a lemon, add a teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Strain the tea into the cup, stir, and garnish with a lemon slice. Adjust sweetness if necessary before serving.