Tea, the aromatic beverage steeped in history and tradition, comes in a vast array of varieties, each with its unique flavor profile and benefits. A treasure trove of flavors, aromas, and health benefits, you can enjoy the experience of a great cup of tea no matter what kind you prefer. Whether it is the crispness of green tea, the robustness of black tea, or the soothing infusion of herbal tea, each variety has something remarkable to offer.
For some, the grassy flavor of straight green tea or the general earthiness of tea doesn’t quite make the mark. That’s when it’s time to get creative with mixing custom blends that incorporate exotic flavours to suit every palate without losing any of the anti-aging and disease-fighting benefits of all the vitamins, antioxidants, and polyphenols such as Resveratrol, in these teas.
X50
Green Tea Raspberry Energy Drink
AED 275.00
X50
Green Tea Lemon and Ginger Energy Drink
AED 185.00
X50
Green Tea Mango Energy Drink
AED 185.00
X50
Green Tea Peach Energy Drink
AED 185.00
X50
Green Tea Passionfruit Energy Drink
AED 185.00
A Primer on Tea Varietals
Tea is a fascinating plant. Did you know that all types of tea come from the same plant, Camellia Sinensis? So why does tea have all these different names, primarily green, black, oolong, white, you may wonder? Well, what makes each type of tea different comes down to how the leaves are processed after it’s harvested and the level of oxidation which occurs when picked leaves are exposed to air, which impacts its flavor and aroma when packed. Each tea type or varietal offers a unique flavour profile with associated health benefits.
Once all that growing, harvesting, and preparation has been done, it’s over to you to brew it and obtain the maximum benefits and enjoyment from the tea. For this the temperature of your water is crucial. If the water is too hot for a certain type of tea, it can effectively burn the leaves, which will make your tea attain a bitter taste. Another factor that’s important to keep an eye on is how long you steep your tea in hot water. Steeping tea too long can also result in bitterness and not long enough will give you tea that hasn’t had the time to release all its goodness, resulting in a cup of team that is bland and underwhelming.
The Teas
Green Tea
Green tea retains its vibrant green hue because it doesn’t undergo an oxidation process. The tea leaves are plucked and left to wither for only a few hours before further preparation to get them ready for packaging. Renowned for its delicate, almost sweet flavour, green tea is celebrated for its rich antioxidants and catechins, essentials in anti-aging and disease-fighting.
Steep at around 160-180°F (71-82°C) for 2-3 minutes.
Black Tea
Black teas are dark and well, black, because they are fully oxidised. The tea leaves are picked and exposed to heat for several hours, making them lose their water content. Bold, robust, and full-bodied, black tea is a classic choice packed with powerful antioxidants – theaflavins and thearubigins – for heart health. Its moderate caffeine offers a gentle energy boost.
Steep at approximately 200-212°F (93-100°C) for 3-5 minutes.
White Tea
White tea is made from young tea shoots that are handpicked when the silvery white hairs are still attached to the tea leaves. They are the least processed of all teas and offer a delicate and light flavour and colour. With abundant polyphenols, white tea packs a punch when it comes to antioxidant power, potentially enhancing immune function, supporting healthy skin, and aiding in oral health.
Steep at approximately 160-180°F (71-82°C) for 2-3 minutes.
Oolong Tea
Oolong tea is unique, striking a balance between the richness of black tea and the freshness of green tea. Oolong tea picking consists of the top bud and only two or three leaves from each plant. These are sun-dried first and then dried some more indoors to promote oxidation. Known for its potential to aid digestion, boost metabolism, and support healthy brain function, oolong tea serves as a delightful companion throughout the day.
Steep at around 180-200°F (82-93°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Herbal Tea
Delectable and caffeine-free, herbal teas encompass a vast range of infusions made from herbs, flowers, fruits, and spices. Technically, herbal teas aren’t teas as they don’t originate from the Camellia Sinensis plant, but they can be steeped like teas and offer a host of health benefits. From calming chamomile to invigorating peppermint, each variety offers its unique therapeutic properties that may aid in relaxation, digestion, immune support, and overall wellness.
Steep at around 200°F (93°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Matcha tea
Matcha is the pulverised version of green tea leaves and contains a stronger concentration of some key nutrients and antioxidants. Rich in catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), matcha has cancer-fighting properties and ability to combat oxidative stress. Known to skip the jitters often associated with caffeine due to the unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine promoting a calm and relaxed state of mind.
Steep at around 160-175°F (70-80°C).
Quali-Tea Selection
NAMASTE
Candy Crush Loose Tea
AED 44.00
Maximum flavor and colour from the delicious mix of Black Tea, Strawberry and Flowers
NAMASTE
Barely Moody Tea Bags
AED 20.00
Named for Charles, the 2nd Earl Grey & British Prime Minister (1830-1834), this tea contains Bergamot, a citrus fruit native to southern Italy.
NAMASTE
Lime Punch Loose Tea
AED 40.00
The richest classes of Chinese society had access to this green tea, which was also highly expensive to buy until the 14th century.
NAMASTE
Pretty Berry Tea Bags
AED 20.00
A blend of flowers, strawberries, and black tea with a delectable sweetness infused with Safflower oil, and Rose petals.
LIVSMART
Organic Matcha Powder
AED 117.00
Hand-picked, dried, and powdered, it’s made from high-quality organic tea leaves grown in the shade to increase chlorophyll and amino acid content.
Sweets to Enjoy With Your Cuppa
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