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With Christmas just round the corner, I know what you're probably thinking: how can I indulge but still watch out for my health (and waistline)?
The answer actually lies in something you've never even considered: Pu'er Fermented Black Tea.
That's the rich, ripe, aged tea originating from Yunnan, China, known as the birthplace of tea.
Commonly enjoyed alongside dimsums at Chinese tea houses, the best examples of Pu'er Fermented Black Tea (often aged for decades) can test the palate of even the most discerning tea connoiseurs, making it as varied as it is versatile.
Pu'er Fermented Black Tea shot to fame when it was traded as a medicine on the silk road centuries ago.
Today, it's enjoyed in equal parts as a nutritious, digestive beverage as it is a mixer in all sorts of non-alcoholic drinks.
Intrigued? Let's dive straight in!
What is Pu'er Fermented Black Tea?
Pu'er Fermented Black Tea, often simply called Pu'er tea, is a distinctive type of tea that is made exclusively in protected designated origin regions in Yunnan province, China. Pu'er tea is renowned in tea circles as one of the six main styles of tea.
Little of it makes its way to the West, as most of this highly prized tea is enjoyed locally.
Unlike regular black tea, such as the ones that go into an English Breakfast blend, Pu'er tea does not rely on oxidation to create its rich flavour.
Instead, it undergoes a unique and carefully controlled fermentation process known as pile fermentation.
This involves gathering large piles of tea and placing them in a hot, damp environment that is conducive to fermentation by naturally-occuring microbes.
Over a period spanning anywhere from 30 to 60 days, the tea leaves clump together and acquire a deep, almost black hue. The process encourages the development of probiotic qualities, alters its chemical make-up and creates new health benefits (more on that later).
This dramatic transformation not only results in deep, rich and earthy flavours, it also gives the tea the ability to age and mature over many years – much like whisky and wine.
The finest examples of aged Pu'er Fermented Black Tea will acquire woody, mushroom-like notes.
Health Benefits of Pu'er Fermented Black Tea
One of the reasons Pu'er Fermented Black Tea has gained such popularity is due to its impressive range of health benefits. Packed with antioxidants, this tea can help promote overall well-being, but it’s also particularly beneficial for digestion and gut health.
1. Supports Digestion
Pu'er tea is often regarded as a digestive aid, especially in the metabolism of fats and lipids. This is in part thanks Pu'er tea's ability to promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which can help balance the gut microbiome, but also due to the development of a chemical called theabrownin during the fermentation process.
Drinking Pu'er tea after meals has been reported to help reduce bloating, improve digestion, and promote a feeling of comfort and lightness.
So effective is Pu'er tea that in Asia, it's sometimes even marketed as a weight control or fat loss product!
2. Rich in Antioxidants
Like all black teas, Pu'er tea is rich in polyphenols, compounds that act as antioxidants. These antioxidants help protect your cells from oxidative stress, keeping in check those pesky free radicals that are responsible for chronic diseases, heart disease and cancer.
3. Boosts Heart Health
Pu'er tea has been linked to improved heart health. Studies suggest that drinking Pu'er tea regularly can help lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood pressure, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
4. Promotes Relaxation and Mental Clarity Pu'er Fermented Black Tea contains natural compounds like L-theanine that promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. The calming effects of this tea can help you de-stress while maintaining mental clarity, making it an excellent choice for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
How to Use Pu'er Fermented Black Tea in Your Drinks
If you’re wondering what non-alcoholic drink to serve during Christmas and want to mix things up, Pu'er tea is an excellent base for a variety of drinks. Here are a few ideas on how you can incorporate it into your festive concoctions:
1. Classic Hot Pu'er Tea
The simplest way to enjoy Pu'er is to brew it as a hot tea. Pour 100°C boiling water over the tea. Let it steep for around 3 minutes, then enjoy the earthy, smooth flavour. Remember that with tea tokens, you can rebrew the tea up to 5 times.
2. Pu'er Tea Latte
Pu'er’s rich, earthy flavour makes it a great choice for a tea latte. Brew a strong cup of Pu'er tea, then add steamed milk or a milk alternative like oat milk for a creamy, comforting beverage. You can sweeten it with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
3. Pu'er Tea Mocktails
For a fun, non-alcoholic mocktail, mix chilled Pu'er tea with coconut water, a splash of sparkling water, and a few ice cubes. This combination creates a refreshing, complex drink that’s perfect for gatherings or a quiet evening at home.
Ready to try it for yourself?
If you're ready to give it a go, then look no further.
We at brut tea have scoured Yunnan's finest tea farms to find what we think is the best quality Pu'er Fermented Black Tea you can find for this price.
In fact, the quality of our tea is so good that in China, this tea was designated "Imperial grade" – the highest grade that can be obtained for this style of tea.
Being harvested in 2018, this tea already has 6 years under its belt (you're welcome!) and reveals intriguing aromas of dried mandarin peel, shiitake mushrooms and black rice. Enjoy now or savour later.
Now, coming in the form of a convenient tea token, it's easier to prepare than ever: simply drop, brew and sip.
Whether you're a seasoned tea enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of non-alcoholic drinks, Pu'er Fermented Black Tea offers a delightful and healthful alternative.
What could be a more perfect way to elevate your drinks game just before the holidays?