Tag: Traditional tea

Unlike many Western cultures, traditional Japanese green tea is almost never served with sugar, as its true flavor, including subtle bitterness and rich umami, is highly prized. This custom is not a matter of personal preference but is deeply rooted in centuries of cultural appreciation and mindful consumption.

While many assume all medicinal teas are caffeine-free, the reality is more nuanced. The key factor determining caffeine content is not the tea's medicinal purpose but its botanical origin, specifically whether it contains leaves from the *Camellia sinensis* plant.

Barley tea (boricha) is so common in Korea that it is often served as a default beverage in restaurants and homes, frequently taking the place of plain water. The practice is steeped in centuries of tradition and a strong belief in its restorative properties, shedding light on the fascinating reasons why do Koreans drink so much barley tea.