Ultimate Guide to Popular Asian Teas!
Today, we will talk about tea! We’ll explore each country and its popular tea flavours, with a bit of history on how the tea was used and why it has remained significant throughout each country’s history. By the end, you’ll hopefully know more about the different teas and discover which ones to try for yourself, ranging from soothing flavours to warm, comforting brews.
China - Oolong Tea
Oolong tea is a partially fermented tea made from the leaves of the Camellia plant. Traditionally, this tea was reserved exclusively for the Emperor and his court, but today it is produced in many countries and enjoyed by tea lovers worldwide.
Oolong tea is believed to have originated in China during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Its original name, “black dragon tea,” comes from the Chinese words “wu long,” meaning black dragon. First produced in the Fujian province, it became renowned for its prized flavour and appearance, making it a key part of Chinese tea culture.
What makes oolong tea unique is its partial fermentation, resulting in a flavour that falls between black and green tea. It has fruity, herbal notes and brews into a rich, amber-coloured liquor.
Japan - Sencha Tea
Sencha is one of the most popular green teas in Japan, alongside others like matcha and sobacha.
It is believed that Sencha was introduced by Nagatani Soen to Kyoto in 1738. While relatively new in Japan’s tea history, it gained prominence in the second half of the 19th century, particularly as exports increased.
Sencha is made from green tea leaves grown in direct sunlight, typically harvested during the first or second flush. The leaves are thin, needle-shaped, and uniform when brewed. Different blends of Sencha offer a variety of flavours and aromas to suit individual tastes.
Korea - Nokcha
Nokcha means green tea in Korean, and it is the most commonly consumed tea in Korea. This small, irregularly shaped leaf offers a sweet, grassy flavour with a hint of subtle saltiness. There is even a particular time of year for harvesting these leaves, often marked by small celebrations.
Nokcha was first introduced to Korea during the Tang Dynasty, around 632–647. Over time, green tea has held significance in Korea, not only as a medicinal herb but also in ceremonial occasions and spiritual offerings.
Thailand - Cha Yen
Thai tea is a blend of Ceylon black tea, milk, and sugar, served either hot or cold. When served cold, it’s known as Thai iced tea, a popular choice for its sweet, creamy, and refreshing taste.
The origins of Thai tea date back to the reign of King Rama V in the 19th century when tea was introduced as part of Thailand’s cultural exchange with neighbouring countries. As the leaves were primarily imported from China and India, the king encouraged local farmers to cultivate them domestically.
Today, Thai tea is widely enjoyed for its distinct sweetness and creamy texture, and it’s a popular ingredient in bubble tea. You can find it sold in cups by street vendors across Thailand, or even pre-packaged as cold, canned drinks. The blend of tea with condensed milk or evaporated milk gives it a rich flavour, making it a favourite, especially during Thailand’s warm weather.
India - Masala Chai
Masala Chai, meaning “mixed-spice tea,” originates from India and is made from a blend of black tea, milk, water, and a variety of spices, often sweetened with sugar. The combination of warming spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves gives it its distinctive flavour.
The roots of Masala Chai go back over 5,000 years when Indian emperors drank spiced brews, valued for their medicinal and energising properties in Ayurvedic tradition. These early versions were caffeine-free.
In 1835, during British colonisation, black tea was introduced to India, and over time, it was incorporated into the traditional spiced drink, creating the Masala Chai we know today. It remains a beloved staple of Indian culture and is enjoyed worldwide for its rich, warming taste.
Conclusion, Asian Teas: From Traditional Brews to Modern Favourites
There you have it—an introduction to a few different teas from various Asian countries. We’ve looked at how they are brewed, their ingredients, and a bit of history behind each tea. They’re fascinating to explore, and perhaps you’ll even try some yourself—whether from pre-made packets or by finding fresh tea leaves and brewing them from scratch at home! We offer our own range of products, from classic teas to latte mixes and unique brews for you to enjoy.
