What Is a Tea Latte?
When it comes to coffee, you’ve probably heard of a latte before. But have you ever heard of a tea latte? This drink is becoming increasingly popular in coffee shops, and for good reason. A tea latte is a hot drink made from tea (usually black tea, but it can also be made with green tea, chai, or other types of tea) and steamed milk. The ratios of tea to milk can vary, but the general formula is 1/3 tea to 2/3 milk.
The tea and milk are then mixed together to create a smooth, creamy drink that is perfect for sipping on a cold day. Some coffee shops even offer flavored tea lattes, such as vanilla or lavender, to add an extra bit of sweetness and complexity to the drink.
Why Should You Try a Tea Latte?
If you’ve never tried a tea latte before, you may be wondering why you should bother. After all, isn’t tea meant to be enjoyed on its own, without any milk or other additives? While that may be true for some tea purists, there are a few key reasons why you should consider trying a tea latte.
First and foremost, a tea latte is a great alternative to coffee if you’re trying to cut back on caffeine. While black tea still contains some caffeine, it generally has less than coffee. Not to mention, there are plenty of decaf tea options available as well.
Additionally, a tea latte can be a great way to add some variety to your standard tea routine. If you’re used to drinking plain black tea or green tea every day, a tea latte can offer a different flavor profile and texture that can be a welcome change.
How to Make a Tea Latte at Home
If you’re interested in trying a tea latte at home, it’s actually quite simple to make. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of black tea (or loose leaf equivalent)
– 2/3 cup of milk (any type of milk will work, but whole or 2% milk will create the creamiest texture)
– Optional: sweetener (honey, sugar, or stevia work well)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then let it cool slightly (about 1-2 minutes).
2. Steep the tea bag or loose leaf tea in the hot water for 3-5 minutes, depending on your preferred strength.
3. In a second pot, heat the milk on low heat until it is steaming (but not boiling).
4. Remove the tea bag or strain the loose leaf tea out of the water.
5. Pour the tea into a mug, then pour the steamed milk on top.
6. If desired, add sweetener to taste.
Is a Tea Latte Always with Black Tea?
While it’s most common to make a tea latte with black tea, it’s absolutely possible to make a tea latte with other types of tea as well. For example, a chai tea latte is made with a blend of Indian spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. A matcha latte is made with green tea powder and milk. And a London Fog latte is made with Earl Grey tea and a hint of lavender. The possibilities are endless!
How Do Tea Lattes Compare to Coffee Lattes?
While tea lattes may not have quite the same cult following as coffee lattes, they offer a few key advantages over their coffee counterparts. Namely:
– Tea lattes are generally lower in caffeine, making them a good choice for those who are sensitive to caffeine or who want to cut back.
– Tea lattes are often less bitter than coffee lattes, making them a good choice for those who don’t love the strong, bitter taste of coffee.
– Tea lattes can offer a wide range of flavors and textures, depending on the type of tea used and any added sweeteners or flavors.
That being said, coffee lattes are still a classic and popular choice for a reason. If you’re a die-hard coffee fan, don’t let the tea latte trend dissuade you from enjoying your favorite drink.
Conclusion
Tea lattes are a hot, creamy, delicious drink that are sure to win over anyone who loves tea or coffee. Whether you’re looking to cut back on caffeine, try something new, or just enjoy a warm drink on a cold day, a tea latte is a great choice. Try making one at home or visit your local coffee shop to see what tea latte flavors they offer. Who knows – you may just discover a new favorite drink!
