Pairing Chocolate and Herbal Tea
How to Pair Herbal Tea and Chocolate
Although “true teas” must come from the Camellia Sinensis plant, generally speaking, many herbal infusions are also loosely categorized as tea. As each herbal blend is unique on its own, the category is quite broad. Many varieities are caffeine-free tho, unlike the true tea varieties, so if you suffer from the jitters after a cup of coffee or tea, herbal teas might just be a perfect fit.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile Tea is an herbal infusion crafted from dried Comomile flowers and hot water. The herbal blend is deemed to have numerous health benefits, including settling the stomach, aiding with sleep and relaxation, and reducing inflammation. It is suggested to start with a mellow Chamomile blend, and working your way up to a more potent dose.
Ginger Tea
Ginger Tea is made from the Ginger root, and has a long history of being deemd an “herbal medicine” throughout the years. They can be drunk on their own, or alongside traditional accompaniments, such as lemon, orange slices, or a splash of milk.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus Tea is made from taking the sepals of the roselle, or Hibiscus sabdariffa flower. The crimson magenta colored tea yields flavors of cranberries, which may slightly vary, but a commonly tart brew. Hibiscus tea also is known for its herbal remedies, including lowering blood pressure among other things, and continues to gain popularity across the globe.
Lemon Balm Tea
Lemon Balm Tea is a perennial herbaceous plant now grown world wide. The leaves permit a lemon scent, similar to mint, and are often used in herbal tea blends. Lemon balm tea can be traced as far back as 2,000 years to the Greek & Roman times, going to show this variety is not one to overlook.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint Tea is crafted from the peppermint leaf, which is a cross hybrid between watermint and spearmint. Peppermint was originally cultivated in Europe and the Middle East, but is now cultivated around the world. Peppermint pairs exceptionally well with Dark Chocolate.
Rooibos Tea
Rooibos translates to “red bush,” and grows in South Africa’s fynbos. The leaves are used to craft Rooibos tea, although has not gained much international interest until the 2000’s. The taste and color is slightly similar to that of Hibiscus, with an earthy flavor, and can be brewed similar to that of a Black Tea.
Sage Tea
Sage Tea is made from Salvia Officinalis, which is a perennial plant, native to the Mediterranean region. It has since been naturalized across the world, and has a long history of medicinal and culinary use. Sage leaves are known to have tiny “hair-like” follicles, known as trichomes, giving the leaves its unique look in appearance. Sage is commonly used to flavor black teas, but is brewed and served as an herbal drink on its own.