The Power of a Malty Base
The reason Assam tea is becoming a favourite for home bartenders is its robust and full-bodied character. Unlike more delicate teas, Assam’s distinct malty flavour doesn't get lost when mixed with other ingredients. Grown in the lush, humid climate of
Northeast India, this variety of the Camellia sinensis plant offers a deep, rich brew that provides a complex, almost savory foundation for a drink, much like a good whiskey or rum would. This strength means you can build layers of flavour on top of it, creating beverages with genuine depth, whether you’re adding alcohol or keeping it refreshingly spirit-free.
Brewing for the Bar Cart
How you brew your Assam tea can dramatically alter your final drink. For iced beverages, consider making a cold brew concentrate. Simply steep Assam tea leaves in cold water for 8-12 hours in the refrigerator. This method extracts the tea's flavours more slowly, resulting in a smoother, less bitter concentrate that’s perfect for mixing. For warm drinks or a quicker infusion, brew the tea double-strength. Use twice the amount of tea leaves for the same amount of water, but steep for the usual 3-5 minutes. Straining immediately is key to avoiding bitterness, giving you a potent, flavourful base that won’t get watered down.
Embracing Low-Sugar Sweetness
The goal is to complement the tea, not overpower it with sugar. Instead of refined white sugar, think natural. A small amount of honey, maple syrup, or jaggery can provide sweetness while adding their own complex notes. For a zero-calorie option, stevia or monk fruit extract work well, though they should be used sparingly to avoid an aftertaste. Often, the best approach is to let other ingredients do the work. The natural sweetness from muddled fresh fruits, a splash of apple juice, or the warm spice of a cinnamon stick can provide all the balance a great drink needs without any added sugar.
Recipe: Assam & Ginger Fizz (Mocktail)
This simple mocktail is a perfect introduction to tea-based drinks. The spice of the ginger ale beautifully complements the malty notes of the tea. To make it, brew a strong cup of Assam tea and let it cool completely—chilling it in the fridge is ideal. In a tall glass filled with ice, combine 100ml of the cooled tea with 100ml of good quality ginger ale. Add a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. For garnish, a simple lemon wedge or wheel is all you need for a refreshing, well-rounded beverage that feels special any time of day.
Recipe: Assam Old Fashioned (Cocktail)
For those who enjoy a classic cocktail, Assam tea and bourbon are a natural pairing. The tea’s malty depth enhances the warm notes of the whiskey. Start by creating a tea-infused simple syrup. Gently heat equal parts water and light brown sugar with one teaspoon of Assam tea leaves until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool and strain. To build the drink, pour 25ml of bourbon into a mixing glass. Add a few dashes of Angostura bitters and a spoonful of your tea syrup. Add ice and stir until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube and garnish with a twist of orange peel.
