ROOIBOS TEA - Prickly Pear
Description
Aroma profile:
A flavourful cup that combines natural freshness with a subtle, inviting sweetness reminiscent of the cactus fruit.
What does this infusion contain?
Rooibos tea (82%), rosebuds, fig pieces, kiwi pieces, blackberry leaves.
Rooibos tea, also known as red tea, is a popular beverage originating from South Africa. It is made from the leaves and stems of the rooibos plant (Aspalathus linearis), which grows in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape province. It is renowned for its distinctive flavour and health benefits.
Rooibos is naturally caffeine- and tannin-free, making it an ideal alternative for people who are sensitive to these substances or wish to avoid stimulants. It can be enjoyed both hot and cold and is an excellent base for various tea blends and beverages.
Its production process involves fermenting and drying the green leaves of the rooibos shrub, which causes them to oxidize and develop their characteristic reddish-brown colour and flavour. Thanks to this oxidation process, rooibos develops a natural sweetness, often eliminating the need for added sugar.
Rooibos has a distinctive and pleasant taste, with a natural sweetness reminiscent of honey and caramel. It has subtle nutty and vanilla notes and may sometimes have a slightly fruity or floral character, depending on how it is prepared.
Unlike traditional teas, it does not have a bitter taste or leave an astringent aftertaste, making it a popular and easy-to-enjoy choice for children and people with sensitive stomachs. It is particularly comforting and soothing. When steeped for longer, its naturally sweet flavour becomes more pronounced without becoming overly strong.
In addition to its naturally sweet flavour, rich mineral content, and lack of caffeine, rooibos is appreciated by tea lovers worldwide for its high antioxidant content, including compounds such as aspalathin and quercetin, which help protect cells against oxidative stress and support overall health. It may also help reduce stress and anxiety and improve sleep quality.
Whether enjoyed as a relaxing evening beverage or as a refreshing iced tea on a warm day, Rooibos remains a versatile and flavourful choice.
Preparation:
1 teaspoon of tea
Water quantity: 200 ml
Boiling water at 100°C
Steeping time: 5–8 min