Irish breakfast tea is robust, full-bodied, and has a wonderful malty flavor. The unique flavor because of the strong Assam content in this blend. It can be compared to english breakfast yet more robust and stronger.
The tea was introduced to Ireland's upper class in 1835 and by the middle of the 19th century became affordable to everyone and is Ireland's favorite beverage.
What is tea time in an Irish home? Anytime during the day because it's a great way to unwind with family and friends.
The traditional Afternoon tea is served between 3:00 and 5:00 pm and paired with a not too sweet biscuit or cookie. High tea is served at 6:00 pm with a variety of savory finger foods and deserts.
Making a traditional pot of tea in an Irish home begins by bringing hot water to a hard boil in a kettle. Adding 1 teaspoon of fresh loose leaf per person inside a teapot plus 1 extra. Boiling water is poured into the teapot and allowed to steep for 4 minutes. Fine china teacups are used to serve, each teacup is filled with 1/3 cup of heated milk or cream to prevent the fine china from crackling, and a tea strainer is used to pour the tea into each cup.
The Irish are also know for their hospitality and offer plenty of food with their tea. Such as, Irish Soda Bread, Irish Shortbread, Oatcakes, Scones or Apple Cake just to name a few.
Tea brings people together. Share a cup of tea with someone and enjoy a wonderful conversation. It's the little things we all forget that are the most important. The Gaelic traditional way to say a cup of tea is "cuppa tay" or "cupan tae". We say....Enjoy your time with tea!
