In a delightful twist on traditional culinary practices, South Africans are readily embracing the art of tea pairing, Cape {town} Etc reports.

No longer mere companions of biscuits or afternoon cakes, tea and food pairings are stepping into the spotlight, taking the place of wine pairings as enthusiasts explore the harmonious synergies between tea and today’s popular dishes.

Tea pairings offer a nuanced experience, similar to wine pairing, that invites those with a passion for food and drink to explore how different teas can enhance various flavours and textures.

As the popularity of tea continues to surge, more and more locals are discovering the intriguing match between palate and brew.

‘Teas with a Black tea base typically complement robust breakfast foods, decadent chocolate desserts, and dishes with a bit of a spicy kick,’ notes Candice Sessions, Tetley Tea’s Marketing Manager.

‘In contrast, refreshing Green teas are a perfect accompaniment for savoury Asian dishes, lighter meals, and even citrus-infused desserts, while Herbal teas shine when paired with fruity desserts and cheese platters.’

One of South Africa’s beloved tea brands, Tetley, has taken the initiative to simplify this pairing process by enlisting some of the country’s top lifestyle and wellness influencers. By tapping into their expertise and personal tastes, Tetley has curated a range of inspiring tea and food pairings that locals can recreate at home.

• Black tea: try pairing it with a hearty English breakfast or a slice of rich chocolate cake.
• Green tea: best enjoyed with sushi, light salads, or a zesty lemon tart.
• Herbal tea: complements an array of fruit tarts or a cheese board featuring soft cheeses.
• Chai: an excellent match for spicy South African curries, adding an aromatic contrast.
• Chamomile: perfect for winding down after a meal, especially with honeycomb dessert.

‘Tetley’s purpose is to provide a tea for every taste which is crafted for flavour and enjoyment,’ Sessions reveals, highlighting the brand’s versatility to fit into various moments of daily life.

‘Whether you’re seeking relaxation with a calming Chamomile or looking to uplift your spirits with a tangy Lemon Green Tea, we believe there’s always a Tetley tea that matches each and every dish.’

Tumi Nqoko (@tumis_wellness): Foodie, Fitness & Wellness Content Creator

Tumi is passionate about sharing her health and wellness journey to inspire and connect with like-minded individuals. She’s shared her inspired Tetley Green Tea Pairings, which are perfect for a fresh, vibrant tea experience.

1.  Tetley Mint Green Tea paired with Ricotta, Grilled Peaches & Honey Sandwich

The cooling mint enhances the sweetness of peaches and the creaminess of ricotta – finished with a drizzle of honey and a hint of fresh mint.

2. Tetley Lemon Green Tea paired with Cottage Cheese, Rocket & Roasted Tomato Sandwich

Zesty Lemon Green Tea pairs beautifully with savoury, earthy flavours. A healthy, satisfying pairing for any time of day.

3.  Tetley Mango Green Tea paired with Mango & Chickpea Salad with Spinach & Feta

A tropical combination that sings with the sweetness of mango, balanced by hearty chickpeas and tangy feta. Every sip of Tetley Mango Green Tea with Vitamin B5 takes you on a tropical escape!

Isma-eel Syce @ismaeel_syce: Food & Lifestyle Digital Creator

Cape Town’s Isma-eel Syce aims to entertain and bring joy to as many people as possible through his content. Renowned for his great taste and love of Tetley Tea, Isma-eel has shared his 3 favourite Tetley Tea pairings for readers to try. He’s taken tea and food pairing to the next level with these delicious desserts infused with a range of Tetley’s signature blends.

Earl Grey Tea Brownies with Chocolate Icing (Serves 12)

Rich, indulgent, and infused with the fragrant citrus notes of Tetley Earl Grey Tea, these brownies are an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Brownie Ingredients:

• 2 Tetley Earl Grey Tea bags
• 115g butter
• 1 cup 200g sugar
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup 60g flour
• ⅓ cup 40g cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Icing Ingredients:

• 1 Tetley Earl Grey Tea bag
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup icing sugar
• heap tbsp cocoa

Brownie Instructions:

1.  Melt butter and steep the Tetley Earl Grey tea bags for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags.

2.  Stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Then mix in flour, cocoa, and salt.

3.  Pour into a greased pan and bake at 175°C for 20-25 minutes.

Chocolate Icing Instructions:

1. Boil a small amount of water (about 2-3 tbsp). Place the tea bag in the water and let it steep for 5 minutes. Once steeped, remove the tea bag and set aside to cool.

2. In a small bowl, melt the butter until smooth (you can microwave it for about 20 seconds or melt it over low heat).

3.  Add cocoa powder and mix until combined.

4.  Gradually sift in the icing sugar to the mixture, stirring to combine.

5. Slowly add the brewed tea, a teaspoon at a time, until the icing reaches your desired consistency (you may not need all the tea).

6.   Let them cool before slicing. Once cooled, dust with icing sugar and enjoy

Tetley Lemon Tea Shortbread (Makes 20)

Delicate, buttery shortbread cookies with a refreshing hint of Tetley Lemon Tea. Perfect for an afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

• Tetley Lemon Tea bags (cut open and use the tea leaves)
• 225g unsalted butter, softened
• 100g sugar
• 250g flour

Instructions:

1.   Beat butter and sugar together until smooth. Add flour and tea leaves, then mix into a dough.

2.   Roll out the dough and cut into shapes or form a log and slice into rounds.

3.  Place on a baking sheet and bake at 160°C (320°F) for 12-15 minutes, until edges are golden.

4.   Let them cool before serving.

Chai Pancakes with Apple Green Tea Syrup (Serves 12)

Fluffy pancakes infused with Tetley Chai, drizzled in a warm, lightly spiced Apple Green Tea syrup. A delicious fusion of sweet and spice!

Pancake Ingredients:

• 1 Tetley Masala Chai Tea bag (cut open and use the tea leaves)
• 250g flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp oil for frying

Apple Green Tea Syrup Ingredients:

• 125ml brewed Tetley Green Tea
• 125ml apple juice
• ½ cup white sugar

Pancake Instructions:

1.   In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and the tea leaves.

2.   Add milk, egg, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.

3.  Heat a pan over medium heat. Pour small amounts of batter and cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another minute.

Syrup Instructions:

1.   In a small pot, combine apple juice, brewed Tetley Green Tea, and white sugar.

2.   Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

3.   Drizzle the syrup over warm pancakes and enjoy!

Also read:

Cape Town makes the global list of best food cities

Picture: Supplied