Best Teas for People Who Don't Like Tea (And End Up Liking)
Do you want to get into tea, but somehow just can't get yourself to like it? You're not alone. Luckily, the world of tea is vast and varied, and not every tea tastes the same. In this post, you'll find lots of recommendations depending on the reason why you don't like tea. There's always a tea that suit your palate, from robust and flavorful options to smoother, more aromatic blends. We're sure that this post will transform your perception of tea.
Why People Don’t Like Tea?
Before exploring the world of tea that can be enjoyed even by those who don’t, let's establish some key points. Sometimes, a cup of tea can taste oddly unappealing, plain or may need to be stronger. Two main factors can lead to an unsatisfactory cup of tea:
- Poor quality tea
- Mistakes in preparation
Many people who dislike tea have often had experiences with low-quality tea or improper preparation. Unfortunately, inferior tea is relatively easy to find. These teas lack attractive aromas and usually taste plain and dull, making them unsuitable choices if you're looking for a satisfying cup with good flavour. If your experience with tea has primarily involved bad-quality teas or tea bags, consider trying some high-quality loose leaf tea before completely dismissing it from you daily routine.
Secondly, you may have been preparing your tea incorrectly. Here are some common mistakes that can occur when making tea:
- Wrong water temperature
- Incorrect steeping time
- Improper water-to-leaves ratio
For example, steeping loose leaf green tea, such as Longjing tea, in boiling water may produce a bitter flavor. Conversely, using water at 70°C to brew black tea, like Lapsang Souchong, can result in a tea that is too light and “watery.”
Similar issues may arise when the amount of tea or the steeping duration are far from optimal. The outcome will be the same: an over or under-steeped tea, which is unappealing to both tea lovers and those indifferent to tea. Therefore, it’s essential to read the instructions on the packaging carefully and experiment with brewing parameters to suit to your personal taste.
Keep in mind that high-quality tea leaves are generally easier to brew than low-quality ones. Even if mistakes are made during preparation, high-quality tea tastes better than those made from poor-quality leaves.
In the next section, we offer some recommendations depending on why you currently dislike tea.
Best teas for people who find tea too bitter
Most people who dislike tea often find green and black tea too bitter. The good news is they can both taste less bitter, or even sweet, when prepared appropriately. Try more delicate black, green, light oolong, or white teas and steep them at a lower temperature. If the water is too hot, the tea may become over-steeped and taste bitter.
A good starting point is to use water at 80ºC and adjust the steeping time according to your preference.
Best tea for people who find green tea too vegetal
If you don't like the vegetal taste in green tea, first make sure to avoid steamed green teas, such as Japanese sencha. Chinese green teas and lightly oxidised oolong teas may also sometimes taste vegetal.
Some Chinese green teas like Dragon Well tea can be a good alternative, as they tend to be more nutty. However, the best option is to either try high quality black tea or darker oolong teas such as Da Hong Pao and Xing Ren Xiang. These teas are more oxidised and lack the grassy notes that might remind you of "veggies" or "seaweed" flavours.
Best tea for people who don't like black tea
If you don't like black tea due to its robust flavours, you should try green teas, white tea or lightly oxidised oolong tea such as Tie Guan Yin. Those teas offer more delicate and subtle aroma.
However, this doesn't mean you should give up on black tea. Consider blending it with flowers or spices to make it work for you.
For example, Indian chai, a blend of black tea and spices, is an excellent choice for those who would like to explore fuller-bodied black teas. On the other hand, most Chinese black tea offer lighter, sweeter and smoother experience.
Best tea for people who don't like hot beverages
Not a fan of hot beverages at all? Enjoy tea cold! Cold brewing is an excellent option if you prefer avoid hot beverages but still want to experience the flavours of tea. It's easy to make, and you can use almost any type of loose-leaf tea. Additionally, when appropriately prepared, cold brew tea tends to be smoother, less bitter, and milder than hot tea, yet featuring explosive aroma.
Best tea for people who don't like the "watery" taste
Watery tea can result from either under-steeping your tea or from using low-quality tea that lacks a rich aroma. Additionally, if you have a sweet tooth and frequently consume high amounts of sugar or salt, it can affect your perception of smell and taste, making the tea seem watery.
It's best to avoid drinking tea while consuming sugary or salty snacks. Try rich, full-bodied teas like ripe Pu erh, Indian black tea, or dark oolong paired with dried fruit instead. Additionally, consider cutting back on sugar and salty foods for a few weeks before your next tea session. You may be surprised to discover the authentic flavours of the tea.
Herbal tea options (for caffeine sensitive people)
If classic leaf tea doesn’t stand a chance with you, try herbal teas and blends. Caffeinated or not, herbal teas offer a broad choice and different flavours. Here are some of the most common and consumed herbal teas:
1. Rooibos Tea
Rooibos is a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea from South Africa with a sweet, nutty flavour profile. It’s often enjoyed with milk or sugar and can be hot or iced. The smooth, rich taste makes it accessible for those avoiding traditional teas and caffeinated beverages.
2. Mint and Lemon Balm Tea
Famous for their refreshing qualities, mint and lemon balm tea can tackle any unpleasant tea preconceived notions. Peppermint or spearmint teas are invigorating and can be served hot or chilled. Plus, they are great for digestion, making them a lovely after-meal beverage.
Lemon balm, instead, offers a mild, lemony flavour that’s soothing and aromatic. This herbal tea is perfect for those looking for something light and easy on the palate.
3. Flower Tea
Flower teas can be another alternative to the traditional tea. Chamomile, for instance, is known for its calming properties and gentle floral notes. At the same time, hibiscus is known for its tartness and tangy taste. Rosebuds and chrysanthemums are also loved for their uniquely delicate taste. Naturally sweet and without any bitter taste, floral tea is an ideal choice for those who shy away from typical tea flavours.
4. Fruit Infusions
Fruit teas from dried fruits like apples, orange peel, berries, or peaches can provide a delicious, sweet experience without the typical tea taste. They can be blended with various herbs and spices to create the perfect balance of flavours.
5. Lemon Ginger Tea
The zesty zing of ginger and the bright taste of lemon create a warming and comforting beverage. This tea can be uplifting and boosting when you’re under the weather.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of tea is far more diverse than many realise. If you've previously dismissed tea, for whatever reason, it's time restart your tea journey with our recommendations above. Soon you'll discover a newfound enjoyment in this beverage by exploring higher quality options and improve your tea making skills.