Black Tea - OP

OP or Orange Pekoe is a grade of Ceylon black tea characterized by its long, thin and slightly twisted whole tea leaves. It is known for its smooth and balanced flavor, with a touch of astringency. When brewed, it produces a light golden-reddish liquor with a delicate taste, making it a favorite among tea enthusiasts who prefer a lighter and more refined cup.

This grade is part of the broader Orange Pekoe classification system, which categorizes tea based on the size and quality of the leaves. OP tea is slightly smaller and less open than OPA (Orange Pekoe A) but larger and more intact than broken leaf grades like BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe).

Primarily sold in Iran but also popular in the Greek market. It is also popular among the Turkish community that resides in Europe.

This is also one of the most expensive grades of Ceylon tea.

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  • Measure Tea Leaves: Use about 1 teaspoon (2-3 grams) of OP tea leaves per cup (240 ml) of water. You can adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
  • Heat the Water: Boil fresh water and allow it to cool slightly. The ideal temperature for brewing OP tea is around 90–95°C (194–203°F).
  • Steep the Leaves: Place the tea leaves in a teapot, infuser or directly in your cup. Pour the hot water over the leaves and let them steep for 3–5 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.
  • Strain and Serve:Remove the tea leaves or strain the tea into a cup. The liquor should have a bright golden-reddish hue with a smooth aroma.
  • Optional Additions: OP tea can be enjoyed plain, but you might also add a splash of milk, a slice of lemon or a touch of honey to enhance the flavor.

Orange Pekoe (OP) tea pairs beautifully with a range of flavors, enhancing its smooth and balanced profile. Here are some great options to complement your cup:

  • Sweet Treats: The delicate flavor of OP tea is a perfect match for light desserts like shortbread, vanilla sponge cake or honey-glazed pastries.
  • Fruity Notes: Pair it with citrus fruits like lemon or orange slices for a refreshing twist or enjoy it alongside dried fruits like raisins and apricots for a natural sweetness.
  • Savory Snacks: Mild cheeses, buttered crackers or cucumber sandwiches harmonize wonderfully with the tea's subtle astringency.
  • Spices:Ginger biscuits, cinnamon rolls or nutmeg-flavored pastries bring a warming contrast to OP tea’s refined taste.
  • Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, hazelnuts or sesame snacks offer a delightful texture and flavor balance.
  • Chocolate: For a touch of indulgence, dark chocolate or chocolate-covered nuts can enhance the tea's smooth profile without overwhelming it.

some specific pairings with OP tea based on regional traditions and flavors:

  • Sri Lankan Delights: Pair OP tea with traditional Sri Lankan snacks like kokis (crispy rice flour snacks) or seeni sambol buns (sweet and spicy onion buns). The rich, smooth tea beautifully balances the savory-spicy profiles of these delicacies.
  • English Tea Time: Enjoy your OP tea with classic afternoon tea staples like scones with clotted cream and jam or cucumber sandwiches. The mild flavor of OP tea allows these dainty treats to shine without overshadowing them.
  • Middle Eastern Twist:Dates and nuts, like almonds or pistachios, complement OP tea wonderfully. The natural sweetness of the dates contrasts with the tea’s light astringency for a satisfying blend.
  • East Asian Fusion: Try pairing OP tea with lightly sweetened rice cakes or sesame cookies. The subtle flavors harmonize, creating a delicate and balanced tea experience.

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