Why Is Tandoori Tea So Trending Now?
Tandoori tea has become a fascinating trend in recent years, captivating the attention of a wide array of consumers. This unique beverage combines various elements that set it apart from conventional tea varieties, making it a favorite both domestically and internationally. Let's delve into the factors contributing to the popularity of tandoori tea.
Unique Flavor
The most distinctive feature of tandoori tea is its distinctive smoky flavor. This is achieved by heating the tea in earthenware pots known as tandoors, which give the tea a smoky taste. This unique taste is what sets tandoori tea apart from conventional tea, making it an intriguing choice for consumers seeking something different.
Visual Appeal
Beyond its unique flavor, tandoori tea is visually appealing. It is often served in traditional clay cups that are frothy on top, creating a dramatic presentation. This beautiful visual display not only enhances the overall experience of drinking the tea but also makes it a favorite for social media sharing. The spectacle of the tea sizzling and frothing when hot chai is poured into the clay cup creates a captivating and entertaining show, further adding to its trendiness.
Cultural Influence
Originating from northern India, tandoori tea connects with a rich culinary heritage. The blend of traditional and modern culinary practices in tandoori tea resonates with those who enjoy diverse food experiences. It is a testament to the adaptability of Indian cuisine that has evolved over time to incorporate global influences while retaining its cultural essence.
Social Experience
Tandoori tea isn’t just a beverage; it’s a communal experience. Drinking it often involves gathering with friends and family, making it a popular choice in cafes and tea stalls. The social aspect of drinking tandoori tea adds an extra layer of enjoyment and connection, contributing to its growing popularity.
Health Consciousness
Some variations of tandoori tea incorporate spices such as ginger and cardamom, which are known for their health benefits. This makes tandoori tea appealing to health-conscious consumers who are looking for a beverage that not only tastes good but also offers potential health advantages.
The History of Chai and Its Evolution
The story of tandoori tea is interwoven with the history and evolution of chai, or Indian tea. Over a century ago, as the Great War ended, British tea growers in India found themselves with a surplus of low-cost tea grown for war supply. Rather than letting this tea go to waste, they decided to increase efforts to promote tea drinking among Indians.
The British tea promotion campaign didn't initially persuade Indians to embrace tea. However, this changed when unknown Indian tea makers began to mix the tea with milk and sugar, creating the chai that Indians fell in love with. Chai became a trend that resonated with the Indian palate and lifestyle.
Tandoori Chai: A Unique Experience
To truly experience tandoori tea, one must visit specific locations. In Pune and along the highways leading out of it, you can find the authentic tandoori chai experience. The method involves using iron tongs to place an earthen cup in a glowing hot tandoor, a large metal drum. When the cup becomes super-hot, it is removed, and sweet, milky chai is poured in. This causes the tea to sizzle and froth over, creating a smoky and earthy flavor with perhaps some caramelization from the sugar. The process is not only delicious but also entertaining to watch.
The connection to Pune stems from Amol Rajdeo, who runs the Chai La tea shop in that city. Inspired by his grandmother’s method of heating turmeric milk over a bonfire, he developed the tandoori chai recipe that has since spread along the highways. It has reached the outskirts of Mumbai, with reports of tandoori chai in Navi Mumbai and Panvel, and may soon be available within the city.
As a traditional food product disseminating mechanism, the highways have long been an excellent route to spread tandoori tea. Families on long drives and weary bus passengers appreciate the distraction and entertainment provided by tandoori tea, not to mention the cool social media videos they can film and share.