A Frothy Debate: The Milk and Tea Conundrum

The addition of milk to tea has been a source of contention among tea enthusiasts for centuries. While some embrace the creamy indulgence, others maintain that milk detracts from the delicate flavours of tea. Let's delve into the history, reasons and ideal pairings for this controversial practice.

 

A Global Tradition
The practice of adding milk to tea has roots in various cultures around the world. It is particularly prevalent in South Asia,Southeast Asia and parts of Europe. India's iconic Masala Chai and Thailand's Teh Tarik are just a few examples of milk-based tea beverages.

 

Historical Perspectives
The exact origins of milk tea are debated, but it is believed to have emerged in Tibet centuries ago. The British, often associated with the tradition, actually adopted it from the Indian subcontinent. In Western Europe, milk was sometimes added to mask the bitter taste of lower-quality teas imported from distant lands.

 

  

Reasons for Adding Milk

• Taste Enhancement: Many people find that milk adds a creamy texture and balances the bitterness of certain teas, particularly strong black varieties.
• Cultural Tradition: In some cultures, milk tea is deeply ingrained in local traditions and customs.
• Health Benefits: Milk provides essential nutrients and the combination of tea and milk can offer a balanced beverage.

 

Tea and Milk Pairings
Not all teas are created equal when it comes to pairing with milk. Here are some general guidelines:

• Black Teas: Bold black teas, such as Assam, Ceylon BOP and Kenyan, are excellent candidates for milk tea. Their robust flavours can stand up to the creaminess of milk.
• Chai: Masala Chai is a classic example of a milk tea blend. It combines black tea with milk, spices, and sweeteners for a flavourful and comforting drink.
• Oolong Teas: Certain oolong teas, especially those with a darker roast, can also pair well with milk.
• Avoid Green and White Teas: Green and white teas are generally not recommended for milk tea due to their delicate flavours, which can be overwhelmed by the creaminess.

 

A Matter of Personal Preference
Ultimately, whether or not to add milk to tea is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different teas and milk varieties to find your ideal combination. Whether you're a purist who prefers tea without milk or a fan of the creamy indulgence, there's a milk tea out there for everyone.