Tea is the perfect drink for hot weather
Summer has finally arrived, bringing with it warm weather. For many, this is the favorite time of the year, but the summer heat makes us seek ways to cool down and quench our thirst. Often, we prefer various cold lemonades and cocktails, but tea is one of the best ways to effectively cool the body on hot days. It can be either hot tea or cold-brewed tea. It is definitely worth paying attention to tea in hot weather, as it will prove unexpectedly beneficial and refreshing.
Why tea in the heat?
1. Regulating body temperature: Paradoxically, hot drinks can help cool the body. They stimulate sweating, which promotes natural cooling of the body. At the same time, cold teas also effectively quench thirst and provide instant freshness.
2. Hydration: Despite myths that tea can dehydrate, many types of tea, especially green, white, and herbal teas, hydrate the body well. They contain minimal amounts of caffeine, which helps avoid dehydration.
3. Rich in antioxidants: Tea, especially green and white tea, is rich in antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by heat and sunlight. These antioxidants also help strengthen the immune system.
Which teas are best for summer?
1. Green tea: Light and refreshing, green tea is the ideal choice for summer. It contains catechins that not only improve metabolism but also help protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
2. White tea: With a delicate and slightly sweet taste, white tea contains more antioxidants than other types of tea. It quenches thirst and refreshes well in hot weather.
3. Light oolongs: These teas, known for their floral and fruity aroma, have a light and refreshing taste. Light oolongs contain moderate amounts of caffeine and are rich in antioxidants, making them a great choice for summer tea drinking.
4. Rooibos: This South African herbal tea is caffeine-free and rich in minerals. It can be brewed hot or cold, helps maintain water balance, and refreshes.
Cold brewing tea.
One of the most popular ways to prepare tea in the summer is cold brewing. This method allows you to preserve the flavor and beneficial properties of the tea to the maximum.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Choose your tea: Select your favorite tea, whether it’s green, white, light oolong, or rooibos.
2. Brewing: Place the selected tea leaves (3-5 grams per liter) into a prepared container, such as a bottle or glass pitcher.
3. Add water: Pour cold filtered water over the tea leaves. This is important because cold water extracts beneficial substances more slowly but allows them to be preserved to the maximum.
4. Steeping: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, but preferably for 6-12 hours. The longer the tea steeps, the richer its flavor will be.
5. Serving: Strain the tea and it’s ready to drink. You can add ice, citrus slices, or fresh mint for extra freshness and aroma.
Tea in hot weather is not only delicious but also beneficial. It helps regulate body temperature, provides the body with antioxidants, and effectively quenches thirst. Try different types of tea and don’t forget about the cold brewing method to enjoy all the benefits of this amazing drink. Enjoy the summer with health and taste!
