In this post you will know what Assam tea is , flavor, uses and recipes. Its name is due to the region of India where it originates from and where it was marketed for a long time as Indian tea. Surely you have already tried it because it is one of the black teas used to mix with others such as Earl Grey.
To produce this type of tea, it is made from the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant, they are cut and ground. Then they go through an oxidation process that increases the quantity and quality of the tea. Its flavor comes from the withered leaves, which are then oxidized in a controlled environment. When fermented, it acquires a unique color and an incomparable flavor.
Assam tea flavor and characteristics
There are several types of Assam teas and in general we can say that they have an unbeatable flavor. The plant they come from is native from the region, so the way they are processed and their climatic conditions are what give them these peculiar characteristics, different from those of other black teas.
It is a tea that has a lot of body, is malty and strong. Those nuances that it possesses are given by its place and harvest time, in addition to other things. Its aroma can range from spicy to earthy. The strongest tea is produced by CTC and is of lower quality (it is used in sachets and not loose leaves). However, it is ideal in mixtures with milk and star anise (giving rise to chai tea).
Assam tea has a robust, full-bodied and simple flavor. Its color is intense and a creamy texture. To deepen its astringent flavor, its fans add milk and sweeten it. Although it can be drunk pure, enjoying its bitter taste.
Assam Tea Uses
This type of tea is used to take advantage of a number of properties that it possesses and that are beneficial to health.
improve concentration
It is appropriate to drink it at breakfast because it provides the energy required to start the day’s activities, thanks to the caffeine and antioxidants it contains. Especially caffeine, which is what maintains alertness and concentration. Regarding antioxidants, it prevents brain degeneration, making it excellent for maintaining mental health.
Strengthens the immune system
Assam tea provides minerals that help counteract cold and flu symptoms by stimulating the body’s defenses. A cup of Assam with honey combats these symptoms. On the other hand, it contains polyphenols that help in the functioning of the intestines. It stimulates the growth of good bacteria for its proper functioning and thus have a healthy digestive system.
Improves the appearance of the skin
Due to the antioxidants it possesses, it prevents the accumulation of toxins that are the ones that produce acne, spots and wrinkles. These toxins are removed from the blood, eradicating free radicals. The result is radiant and healthy skin. The skin is cleansed from the inside out and contains vitamins A and C, which are important to keep it healthy.
Avoid cardiovascular diseases
What creates the risk of cardiovascular disease is bad cholesterol, which causes plaque to build up in the arteries. When they are covered, the heart limits blood pumping, so it is important to keep this cholesterol, also called LDL, low.
Assam tea polyphenols are what reduce this cholesterol in the blood, thus protecting the heart and arteries. These natural remedies are always good to ward off these types of diseases.
Assam Tea Recipes
Some of the recipes that are prepared using Assam tea are as follows.
Homemade Masala Chai
This tea is typical of the south of the India and has a comforting taste and aroma. To prepare it, hot species are used that will give it a rich aroma and flavor. Among its ingredients are:
- A liter of water.
- Two tablespoons of black tea and cinnamon powder.
- Two tablespoons of cloves.
- A tablespoon of cardamom.
- A tablespoon of black pepper, star anise and grated ginger.
- Milk and sugar.
For its preparation the following is done:
- Boil the milk and water, add the spices and leave for about 5 minutes over medium heat.
- Then, lower the heat and add the black tea and ginger. Keep it infusing for about 5 minutes.
- Strain and drink hot or cold.
Assam tea cake
It is a cookie that works well as a dessert or snack and is very simple to prepare. You must have the following ingredients:
- Half a cup of powdered and granulated sugar.
- Two cups of all-purpose flour
- Two tablespoons of Assam tea .
- ½ tablespoon of salt.
- A teaspoon of vanilla and water.
- Two sticks of unsalted butter.
For its preparation, the following steps must be followed:
- In a container, place all the dry ingredients and mix them.
- Add the water, butter and vanilla, form a dough with them.
- Divide the dough in two, each half place waxed paper 2 x 12 cm. Wrap the halves and place them in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Heat oven to 375º.
- Take the two doughs out of the fridge and remove the wrapper. Cut them into 1/3 thick slices. Place each one on a tray and cover it with aluminum foil.
- Let bake for about 12 minutes.
- Cool and accompany with a cup of cold tea.