Guide To Tea & Milk

For centuries, milk and tea have formed a beloved pairing across cultures, elevating the experience of tea drinking by adding richness, creaminess, and balance to a variety of teas. While some enthusiasts may prefer their tea without milk to fully appreciate its subtle flavours, many find that it enhances the depth and smoothness of the brew, creating a comforting and indulgent drink.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the historical and cultural significance of milk in tea, explore the best tea varieties to enjoy with milk, and offer tips for mastering the perfect cup.

History and Cultural Context

The practice of adding milk to tea dates back to the 17th century in Britain. Initially, milk was poured into tea to cool the liquid and prevent delicate porcelain cups from cracking due to the heat. Over time, the custom became entrenched in British culture, with milk tea becoming a staple of daily life.

This tradition extends far beyond Britain. Over time, milk tea evolved into a symbol of refinement and hospitality in various societies. The addition of milk, once a luxury due to the high value of dairy products, reflected wealth and status. As tea gained global popularity, incorporating milk became a cherished ritual, combining practicality with the indulgence of a smoother, richer flavour. Today, the tradition continues, offering both comfort and sophistication.

Types of Teas Commonly Paired with Milk

Some teas naturally complement the richness of milk, while others are best enjoyed without it. Here are a few teas that pair beautifully with milk:

1. Black Tea: Bold black teas like Assam, Darjeeling, Keemun, and English Breakfast are the classic companions to milk. Their robust flavours are softened by milk, balancing the tannins (tannins are natural compounds found in tea leaves that contribute to a tea’s slightly bitter, dry sensation) and enhancing the sweetness.
   
   

2. Matcha: To prepare a matcha beverage, matcha is first whisked with water to create a base. It is then poured over a glass of milk, resulting in the well-known matcha latte. This creates a smooth, earthy flavour of matcha that complements the creamy texture of the milk perfectly.

3. Pu-erh Tea: This fermented tea, known for its rich, earthy flavours, pairs surprisingly well with milk. The creaminess of the milk smooths out the bold, sometimes slightly bitter taste of pu-erh, creating a unique and robust combination that’s less common but increasingly appreciated by tea enthusiasts.
   
   
4. Oolong Tea: Certain Oolong teas, especially those with a higher degree of oxidation, are enhanced by a splash of milk, which introduces a creamy texture that beautifully complements their intricate flavours.

How Milk Affects Tea Flavour

Milk's interaction with tea is fascinating. The proteins in milk bind with the tannins in tea, which are responsible for tea's astringency (astringency is a dry, puckering feeling in your mouth that you might get after drinking strong tea). This process softens the astringent notes, resulting in a smoother, less bitter cup. Milk also brings out the natural sweetness in tea, creating a balanced flavour profile.

Milk Options

The type of milk you use can significantly impact the flavour and texture of your tea. As we all have different taste preferences, many people have discovered certain alternatives or types of milk that they enjoy. Here are a few examples:

1. Cow’s Milk: Full-fat milk envelops your palate with its luxurious, creamy texture, creating a delightful indulgence in every sip. For those seeking a lighter alternative, semi-skimmed or skimmed milk provides a refreshing, airy option, making it a versatile choice for a variety of beverages.
   
   

2. Evaporated Milk: Better known as condensed milk is thicker and creamier, offering a more intense flavour than regular milk.

3. Plant-based Milk: Almond, oat, soy, and coconut milk are popular alternatives for those avoiding dairy. Each brings its distinct flavour that can enhance the experience of black teas. Almond milk adds a nutty richness that pairs beautifully with spiced black teas, while oat milk contributes a naturally sweet and creamy texture, making it an excellent choice for robust varieties like Assam or English Breakfast. Soy milk offers a smooth, slightly bean-like taste that balances well with the tannins in black teas, and coconut milk adds a tropical twist, enhancing the flavour profile of chai.

Techniques for Making the Perfect Cup

Achieving the ideal balance of tea and milk requires attention to detail. Here are a few tips to help you master the art:

The Best Tea-to-Milk Ratio

A good starting point is to use a ratio of 4:1; four parts tea to one part milk. This allows the flavour of the tea to shine while adding just enough creaminess from the milk. For a richer drink, you can adjust this ratio to suit your preference.

Steeping Times for Tea when Adding Milk

Black teas should generally steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. If you plan to add milk, allow the tea to steep fully before pouring in the milk. This ensures that the tea’s full flavour is extracted before it is softened by the milk.

When to Add Milk: Before vs. After Steeping

The debate over when to add milk, before or after steeping has divided tea drinkers for centuries. Some argue that adding milk first prevents scalding, while others claim that adding milk after allows for better control over the flavour. The general consensus today is to steep the tea first, ensuring a full infusion before tempering it with milk.

Popular Milk Teas from Around the World

Milk tea is enjoyed in various forms across the globe, each culture offering its twist. Here are some of the most popular ones:

1. Masala Chai: A spiced black tea mixed with milk and sugar, is a staple in Indian households.
   
   
2. Bubble Tea: Originating in Taiwan, bubble tea is made with milk, black or green tea, and tapioca pearls, offering a unique chewy texture.

1. Hong Kong Milk Tea: Strongly brewed black tea is combined with condensed milk, resulting in a rich, silky beverage.
   
   
2. British Milk Tea: The classic cup of tea served with a splash of milk, this is perhaps the most well-known version of milk tea worldwide.
   
   
3. Thai Milk Tea: This vibrant orange tea is brewed with black tea and sweetened condensed milk. Often served over ice, it sure makes a refreshing treat!
   
   
4. Brown Sugar Milk Tea: Originating from Taiwan, this trendy drink features a base of milk mixed with brown sugar syrup, creating a rich and caramel-like flavour.

Basilur Tea Blends that Complement Milk

At Basilur Tea, we offer a variety of premium tea blends that pair perfectly with milk, from robust Ceylon black teas to aromatic masala chai. Whichever you prefer at any moment, our carefully curated teas provide the perfect foundation for your milk tea journey. Explore our various ranges on our website to find the blend that suits your taste.