In honour of National Tea Day we take a look at how the nation’s favourite beverage came to the UK, and find out what creates a superior brew.
Every year on 21st April, tea lovers across the UK come together to celebrate National Tea Day, a special occasion dedicated to the nation’s favourite drink. While the significance of this day extends beyond just a cup of tea, it is a chance to appreciate the ritual, history, and impact that tea has had on British culture.
Whether you prefer your tea with milk, a slice of lemon, or just a simple brew, National Tea Day provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy and share the humble, yet beloved, cup of tea.
The history of National Tea Day National Tea Day was first established in 2016, but tea’s history in Britain stretches back much further. Tea was first introduced to the UK in the 17th century, with the first recorded instance of tea being served in England taking place in 1657. However, it was not until the 18th century that tea became a common beverage in British households. Initially, it was enjoyed by the elite, but by the early 19th century, tea was firmly entrenched in the everyday lives of the British people.
The British East India Company played a significant role in popularising tea in the UK (and opium in China, among other dark deeds). The company was responsible for importing vast quantities of tea from China and India, and by the 19th century, it had become a staple in British homes.
As time passed, tea became an essential part of British life, transcending social classes. Today, it is ingrained in our culture, with many people enjoying a cup of tea at various times of the day – whether it’s a morning wake-up brew or a comforting evening ritual.
National Tea Day serves as a reminder of tea’s significant place in British society and culture, and of course, here in Yorkshire we love a good brew. The day encourages people to reflect on the origins of their favourite tea blends and to consider the many ways tea has influenced everything from social gatherings to trade and colonial history.
How to make a proper brew!
1. Use fresh water: The quality of the water used can greatly affect the taste of your tea.
Always use fresh, cold water and avoid using water that has been sitting in the kettle for too long.
2. Right temperature: Different types of tea require different brewing temperatures.
For black tea, aim for water that has reached a rolling boil (100°C). For green tea, a slightly cooler temperature of around 75 to 85°C is best, as boiling water can result in a bitter taste.
Steep for the right time: Over-steeping tea can lead to bitterness. A general rule of thumb is three to four minutes for black tea and two to three minutes for green tea. For herbal teas, steep for about five minutes or longer, depending on your taste preference.
4. Proper teapot or mug: If you’re brewing loose-leaf tea, using a teapot ensures the leaves have enough room to unfurl, resulting in a more flavourful cup. For tea bags, a mug will do just fine, but pre-warming it ensures the tea stays at the ideal temperature while it steeps.
5. Don’t squeeze: While it’s tempting to squeeze a tea bag against the mug to avoid dripping, doing this actually releases tannic acid into your brew, creating a more bitter and acidic flavour.
Leeds boasts a thriving independent tea shop scene. Local tea specialists offer a wide range of loose-leaf teas, from classic English Breakfast blends to more exotic infusions.
These businesses are helping to foster a greater appreciation for the diverse world of tea, offering consumers an opportunity to explore different blends and find their perfect cup.
Check out Bird & Blend, Whittards, or Teapot – Tea or Coffee, if you’re looking to expand your tea selection.
Whether you’re making the perfect brew at home or enjoying a traditional afternoon tea in Leeds, National Tea Day provides the perfect occasion to savour the flavours, history, and ritual of tea. So, put the kettle on, take a moment to reflect on the tradition, and raise your cup to celebrate the humble tea.
