Chinese restaurants are known for their expansive menus, but tea is one item you're almost always guaranteed to find. Although not all restaurants serve the same type of tea, traditional tea is served in Chinese restaurants worldwide. In this post, I'll discuss the types of tea served in Chinese restaurants, the featured taste behind each type, and so much more:
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Different types of tea served in Chinese restaurants
Chinese restaurants often offer a wide variety of hot teas along with meals instead of iced tea. Here are some of the most common teas that you may find served in Chinese restaurants(especially dim sum places) here in the United States:
Jasmine tea
Jasmine tea is one of the most popular teas and widely consumed teas in Chinese cuisine. It is made by scenting green tea leaves with jasmine flowers, resulting in a fragrant and delicate floral flavor.
Oolong tea
Oolong tea is a partially fermented tea with a range of flavors, from light and floral to rich and roasted. It is known for its complex and nuanced taste. Different varieties of oolong tea, such as Tie Guan Yin（铁观音） and Da Hong Pao（大红袍）, may be offered.
Pu-erh tea（普洱茶）
Pu-erh tea, also called Pu'er tea, comes from China's Yunnan province (where I was born!). Yunnan is the birthplace of tea, and it has a long history of tea production. Pu-erh tea is unique because it undergoes a fermentation and aging process that sets it apart from other types of tea. It is a fermented tea that undergoes aging, resulting in a distinct earthy aroma and robust flavor. It is often served in small cups.
Longjing (Dragon Well，龙井) tea
Longjing tea is a type of green tea from Hangzhou, China. It has a smooth, slightly sweet taste and a refreshing aroma. The loose-leaf tea leaves are flat and resemble the shape of a sparrow's tongue. Longjing teas are actually excellent choices for gift options to a Chinese tea lover!
Chrysanthemum tea（菊花茶）
Chrysanthemum tea infuses dried chrysanthemum flowers in hot water. It has a light, floral taste and is often enjoyed for its cooling properties and reputed health benefits.
Black tea
While not as commonly served as other types of tea in Chinese restaurants, black tea may still be available. It has a stronger flavor.
In some Chinese restaurants, you may have the opportunity to choose the type of tea you prefer, while in others, a specific hot tea may be served as the house tea.
How to enjoy tea when dining in a Chinese restaurant
Here are some tips on how to make the most of your tea enjoyment:
- Chinese restaurants often offer a variety of fragrant Chinese tea to choose from. Take a look at the tea menu or ask the server for recommendations. Consider selecting a tea that complements the flavors of the dishes you plan to order.
- Once you have chosen your tea, the server will typically bring a teapot, tea leaves, and hot water. They may briefly rinse the teapot and tea leaves to awaken the flavors. Allow the server to handle the brewing process, or ask if you can participate.
- Take a moment to appreciate the aroma as the tea is poured into your cup. Chinese teas often have distinctive scents that can range from floral to earthy. Inhale the fragrance and let it awaken your senses.
- Observe the color of the tea in your cup. Chinese teas can have different hues, ranging from pale green to amber or even darker shades.
- Chinese tea is meant to be enjoyed slowly and mindfully. Take small sips and let the flavors unfold on your palate.
- Pairing with Food: Chinese tea can enhance the flavors of the dishes you are enjoying. Take a sip of tea between bites to cleanse your palate and appreciate the interplay of flavors.
Relax sip slowly. 🙂 Feel free to experiment with different tea and food combinations to find your preferences!
The benefits of drinking tea
Here are some key benefits of enjoying tea:
- Tea acts as a palate cleanser between bites of different dishes. It helps refresh the taste buds, removing lingering flavors and preparing the palate for the next dish.
- Chinese cuisine can be rich and varied, often incorporating a range of flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Tea, mainly green tea, is known for its potential digestive properties. It can help stimulate digestion and alleviate feelings of heaviness or bloating after a meal.
- In general, Chinese tea contains less caffeine than coffee. Different types of Chinese tea have varying caffeine levels. Green tea usually contains the least caffeine, followed by white tea, oolong tea, and black tea.
- Tea is a hydrating beverage, especially without added sweeteners. Staying hydrated during a meal is essential for overall well-being.
- Drinking tea is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and traditions. It provides an opportunity to connect with Chinese heritage.
- Many types of tea, such as green tea and oolong tea, are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants have been associated with various health benefits.
- Sharing a pot of tea with dining companions fosters conversation, connection, and a sense of togetherness.
Drinking tea in a Chinese restaurant adds to the cultural experience and provides various advantages. Embrace the tea-drinking tradition and savor the flavors and benefits it brings to your dining experience.
What to look for in your tea when eating in a Chinese restaurant
When selecting and enjoying tea in a Chinese restaurant or tea shop. Here's what to look for in your tea when dining in a Chinese restaurant:
- Look for a diverse tea selection that includes different types of tea, such as green tea, oolong tea, black tea, or herbal teas. This tea selection allows you to choose a tea that suits your preferences.
- Opt for high-quality teas that are fresh and well-crafted. Fresh tea leaves will have vibrant colors and aromas.
- Pay attention to the aroma of the tea. Chinese teas often have distinct fragrances, ranging from floral to earthy or nutty. Inhale the aroma and choose a tea that appeals to your senses.
- Consider the taste profile of the tea. Chinese teas have many flavors, from light and grassy to robust and smoky. For example, if you prefer a milder taste, you might choose a delicate green tea or a floral oolong tea. If you enjoy stronger flavors, you might choose roasted oolong or bold black tea.
- Think about how the tea will complement the flavors of the dishes you plan to order. If you're having delicate seafood dishes, a light and subtle tea might be a good choice. A stronger tea with more robust flavors can provide a satisfying balance for rich and flavorful dishes.
- Choose a tea that aligns with your taste and personal preference, whether you enjoy a particular type of natural tea or prefer a specific flavor profile.
Conclusion
Tea has been a part of Chinese dining for many centuries and is an integral part of the cuisine. I hope you enjoyed this post as much as I did writing it. Next time you visit a Chinese restaurant, take the opportunity to explore the different teas and find the one that speaks to you. Leave your comments below and let me know what you think.:)
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