What is rooibos?
Rooibos is a South African plant that has been used for centuries to produce a delicious and original infusion. It has become super popular in recent years, thanks to its unique and pleasant taste. If you've never tasted rooibos, or are just curious about this fascinating plant, you've come to the right place! We're going to show you everything you need to know about this little marvel, so hold on tight.
Where does rooibos come from ?
Rooibos is a shrub that grows only in the Cederberg Mountains of South Africa. The plant has been cultivated for centuries by the indigenous peoples of the region, who used its leaves to prepare an infusion called rooibos. Rooibos is also known as "red tea", due to the reddish color of its infusion.
How is rooibos made?
Making rooibos is an art! To obtain a quality product, professional pickers take the time to select the ripest and freshest rooibos leaves by hand. Then the leaves are transported to processing factories where they are lovingly sorted and carefully washed to remove all impurities. We do not trifle with the quality of rooibos!
Their secret to becoming reddish and delicious? It's oxidation, of course! The leaves are left to dry in the open air for about two weeks, the time to make them crispy. We make sure to turn them regularly so that they can take full advantage of the fresh air and the sun. And hop, that's how you get this characteristic color!
Once the rooibos leaves are oxidized, they are ready to be made into a delicious infusion. Whether on its own or mixed with other ingredients, rooibos is perfect for creating unique and surprising flavors. And if you're in a hurry, no worries! Rooibos is also available in individual sachets for quick and easy preparation.
How to consume rooibos?
Rooibos is available in many forms! You can find it in leaves, sachets or even powder, and you can prepare it as an infusion like a tea, or use it to concoct cold drinks and desserts to die for.
To infuse rooibos, nothing could be simpler. Boil water and pour it over a teaspoon of rooibos in a cup. Leave to infuse for about 7 minutes, or longer if you like a stronger taste. Then, let yourself be transported by the delicious aromas of this drink!
And then the taste? It's a sweet blend of slightly sweet notes of hazelnut and caramel that will delight you. You can drink it alone or also mix it with other ingredients to create new flavors every time.
For example, you can turn it into an ultra-comforting hot drink by mixing it with milk, honey and spices! And if you want even more adventure, you can also use it in the preparation of smoothies, sorbets, ice creams and even cocktails! With rooibos, the possibilities are endless.
Unlike black tea , green tea or coffee, rooibos does not contain natural caffeine. It is therefore an interesting alternative if you want to reduce your caffeine consumption.
Keia Tea Rooibos
If you are looking for quality rooibos in Switzerland, don't hesitate to take a look at our online loose tea shop . We have a wide selection of rooibos infusions made from organic ingredients. We hope to see you soon!
