Thee
Wide assortment of loose-leaf teas.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Tea cultivation and consumption originated in China thousands of years ago, with evidence suggesting its use dates back to the Shang Dynasty. From China, tea spread to other parts of Asia and eventually to the rest of the world, undergoing significant cultural and processing adaptations along the way. Its journey is intertwined with trade routes like the Silk Road and shaped by colonial influences.
Tea is deeply embedded in many cultures around the world, serving not just as a beverage but as a symbol of hospitality, relaxation, and social connection. Tea ceremonies, afternoon tea traditions, and everyday tea rituals highlight its cultural significance.
Chinese Tea Ceremony (Gongfu Cha)
Gongfu Cha is a traditional Chinese tea ceremony emphasizing skill, precision, and appreciation of the tea. It involves specific brewing techniques and rituals to extract the optimal flavor and aroma from high-quality tea.
Japanese Tea Ceremony (Chanoyu)
Chanoyu is a highly ritualized Japanese tea ceremony focused on harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. It emphasizes the preparation and presentation of matcha (powdered green tea) in a serene and contemplative setting.
British Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is a British tradition involving a selection of teas served with finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and pastries. It's a social occasion often associated with elegance and leisure.
Moroccan Mint Tea
Moroccan Mint Tea is a social custom. Preparation is an art, and the sweet tea is poured from a height to create a foam. It is a gesture of hospitality and friendship.
The flavors of tea are incredibly diverse, ranging from delicate and floral to robust and earthy, depending on the type of tea, its processing, and the region where it's grown.
Tea flavors are derived from complex chemical compounds within the tea leaves. Green teas often have grassy, vegetal, or slightly bitter notes. Black teas are generally bolder, with malty, fruity, or smoky flavors. White teas are subtle and sweet, while oolong teas offer a wide spectrum, including floral, roasted, and fruity characteristics. Herbal teas (tisanes) offer an even broader range based on the specific herbs, fruits, or flowers used, such as chamomile's floral sweetness or peppermint's refreshing coolness. Flavor is also influenced by brewing time and water temperature.
Water Temperature
Different types of tea require different water temperatures. Generally, delicate teas like green and white tea should be brewed with cooler water (around 170-185°F), while black and herbal teas can handle hotter water (around 200-212°F). Overheating water can result in a bitter taste.
Steeping Time
Steeping time also varies depending on the type of tea. Green and white teas typically require shorter steeping times (1-3 minutes), while black and oolong teas can steep for longer (3-5 minutes). Experiment to find your preferred strength.
Tea to Water Ratio
A general guideline is to use about one teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8 ounces of water. Adjust the amount based on your preference and the type of tea. For example, finer cut tea will be stronger than whole leaf tea.
Water Quality
The quality of the water can significantly impact the flavor of tea. Use filtered or spring water whenever possible, as tap water can contain chlorine or other impurities that can affect the taste. Avoid using distilled water, as its lack of minerals can make the tea taste flat.
Pairing with Treats
Pairing tea with small treats elevates the experience. Light teas like green or white pair well with delicate pastries or fruit. Richer teas like black or oolong complement heartier treats like scones or chocolate.
Explore additional Tea dishes and restaurants
Explore TeaDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Maastricht.
Explore MaastrichtLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Netherlands.
Explore Netherlands