When thinking about the tea culture in Asia, Filipino cuisine is not usually the first that comes to mind.
Tea is often associated with the cultures of East Asia. In countries like Japan, China, and Taiwan, where tea is widely cultivated and consumed, it is more than an herbal remedy; it is a culinary fixture, which defines a large part of everyday life as well as centuries-old traditions.
But Southeast Asian countries have also developed a distinct relationship with tea, with their own favored varieties—Lotus (Vietnamese), Black (Thailand), or ceylon (Sri Lanka)—defined by readily available native ingredients, as well as flavorings inspired by other cultures that have shaped their palate, such as milk, herbs, or sugar.
And the Philippines is no exception.
source: pixabay
Traditionally, tea is viewed as a medicinal beverage, more a part of alternative medicine than Filipino cuisine.
One of the most popular varieties is ginger tea, which is commonly used as an herbal remedy for ailments such as cough, colds, or sore throat.
For a caffeine fix or after-meal beverage, Filipinos continue to turn to coffee, due in large part to the influence of the Spanish and Americans. But also because coffee beans are more widely cultivated in the country, with each region offering a different variety of beans.
However, in recent years, tea is becoming more widely embraced by Filipinos. The recent influx of tea salons offering more varieties and milk tea shops, which often attract long queues, have a large part in this.
This season, we want to help further this love for the blossoming tea culture of the Philippines by bringing you a delicious homegrown Philippine tea.
L'amor Coco Ginger Herbal Tea is a soothing herbal tea made with love using the finest coconuts and ginger from Santa Maria, Laguna.
This all-natural Philippine tea is made with 100% pure coconut sugar and infused with ginger extract.
Pure, unrefined coconut sugar is a healthier alternative for those seeking to keep their glucose levels at bay. It's also packed iron, calcium, antioxidants and potassium, which means it can help maintain muscle and nerve health and regulate your electrolytes.
Ginger, on the other hand, has been known to treat cough and colds, alleviate nausea, relieve pain (such as migraines), lower blood pressure, and relieve swelling or heartburn.
But aside from its health benefits and nutritious properties, ginger also possesses distinct flavor profiles that elevate the experience of drinking tea, making it not just a remedy or a means to an end, but an experience in itself.
Let L'Amor Coco Ginger Herbal Tea is pleasantly aromatic with a warm, zesty flavor that makes for a unique tea experience.
Savor this homegrown tea along with other refreshing Filipino goodies inspired by the vibrant seaside culture of the Philippines!
Subscribe here to get our Seaside Selection today.
sources: Healthline.com, PETA.org, Food NDTV