Black Tea - OPA

OPA or Orange Pekoe "A" is a tea grade known for its large, bold and slightly twisted whole tea leaves. It is a variety of Ceylon black tea that stands out for its generously proportioned leaves, which are larger compared to other Orange Pekoe grades like OP or OP1.

When brewed, OPA tea typically produces a mild and smooth flavor with a light golden-reddish color. It takes slightly longer to brew due to the size of the leaves but offers a unique and refined tea experience. This grade is popular in regions like Russia, Chile and parts of Eastern Europe.

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  • Measure Tea Leaves: Use 1 teaspoon (around 2 grams) of OPA tea per cup (about 240 ml) of water. Adjust for a stronger or milder brew based on your preference.
  • Heat the Water: Bring water to a rolling boil (around 95–100°C or 203–212°F). Since OPA tea consists of larger leaves, hot water helps extract the flavor more effectively.
  • Steep the Leaves: Add the tea leaves to a teapot or infuser. Pour the hot water over them and let steep for 4–5 minutes. The larger leaves may take slightly longer to release their flavor compared to smaller grades.
  • Strain and Serve:Remove the tea leaves or pour the brewed tea through a strainer. The resulting brew should have a rich amber color and a smooth taste.
  • Optional Additions: OPA tea is often enjoyed plain, but you can add milk, sugar or honey for a personalized touch.

OPA tea’s smooth and mild flavor makes it an excellent base for pairing with various foods. Here are some delightful flavor combinations to try:

  • Sweet Treats: The robust yet balanced taste of OPA tea complements pastries like butter cookies, scones or a slice of pound cake. Sweet treats help enhance its natural depth.
  • Spiced Snacks: Mildly spiced snacks like samosas, cinnamon rolls or ginger biscuits harmonize beautifully with the tea’s warm undertones.
  • Fruits: Pairing OPA tea with citrus fruits, such as oranges or lemon, can add a zesty freshness, while mellow fruits like pears or apples offer a natural sweetness.
  • Savory Dishes:Light, savory dishes like cucumber sandwiches, spinach quiche or rice crackers work well without overpowering the tea’s subtle nuances.
  • Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, walnuts or sesame seeds create a satisfying contrast to the tea’s smoothness and add texture to your tea-time experience.

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