Russians are very fond of tea. Russia's tea-drinking culture shares some similarities with other tea-loving countries, such as the United Kingdom or Ireland, where ready-made loose-leaf black tea in bulk can be used as the main tea bag when working or traveling. Regardless, for Russians, drinking tea at home embodies centuries of aristocratic and family heritage and is a social luxury. Here are the specific steps:
1. Prepare materials
Russians who are serious about the best tasting black tea must not only go to the store, but also be well-prepared to serve their guests the perfect brew. The ideal zavarka (concentrated tea brew) will contain some freshly picked herbs brought back from the wild. Some staples include Ivan Chai (willow leaves) and Smorodina (blackcurrant leaves).
Picking your own zavarka ingredients not only adds freshness and interesting flavor to the mix, but it's also very good for you. For example, Ivan Chai is a known cancer preventative, while others are used as ointments for various ailments. A Russian tea party isn't just for fun - you'll also leave feeling healthy and energized.
2. Dry herbs
Dried zavarka mixes have a longer shelf life, so you can pick the herbs in batches and take them home.
Most Russians just do it at home - the easiest way is to dry them by placing the leaves and berries in the oven on the lowest temperature for a few hours. You can also leave them on the floor of your home, but you have to make sure they don't get wet.
Offers a variety of snacks
According to Russian culinary historian William Pokhlyobkin, Russian tea is not a self-contained drink and must therefore be paired with a range of snacks.
The most popular side dishes are cookies (usually gingerbread or baranki), chocolate or waffles. You also need to consider side dishes - Russians like to add lemon, honey and jam to their tea (not all at the same time, of course), while some prefer black tea and milk.
5. Be prepared
Sure, samovars and podstakanniki are classic staples of Russian coffee tables, but they're a bit over the top -- most Russians just use kettles and French presses to make tea instead of samovars, and some plain, stylish mugs will do just fine.
Popular as the drink of the nobility in the 17th century, high-quality black tea continues to symbolize hospitality, comfort, discussion and relaxation in Russia.
In Soviet times, tea culture even made the kitchen one of the most dynamic places. Whether it's a date, a relaxing break after get off work, or a chance to meet friends and roommates, Russians believe there's nothing more authentic than a good cup of black tea.
