It is hard to imagine breakfasts, social gatherings, business
meetings, or negotiations in the Grand Bazaars in Iran
without the presence of a cup of tea. Did you know that along with the beverage
itself, the preparation and consumption of tea is an integral part of Iranian
culture and daily life?
Iran has always been famous for its strong black tea which is
often supplemented with aromatic spices as flavor. Tea production is a major
industry in the Caspian Sea area and a large part of its economy. Iranian tea
or Chaee as it is called in Persian, is a black tea which is prepared in a very
specific manner. Using a double tea pot, the bottom of the pot is filled with
water which is set on the flame to boil. Meanwhile the top pot is filled with
dry tea leaves, typically one small spoonful per drinker. When the water has
reached a boil some of it is transferred to the top pot and the tea is allowed
to steep for 15 minutes, but generally no longer than 30 to avoid bitterness. Traditionally,
tea is served from a samovar. Literally meaning “self-boiler”, the samovar is
used to keep water hot for prolonged periods of time through a fuel-filled pipe
in the middle of the structure that heats the contents surrounding it. Iranian
tea comes in a variety of subtle flavors, but its defining characteristic is
its deep reddish-brown color, which tea-drinkers can choose to dilute with
water depending on their preference.
As far as
where is the best place to enjoy tea in Iran? There is no one best place. While traveling in Iran do not miss the The World's smallest tea house in Tehran Grand Bazaar.
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| The World's smallest Tea house in Tehran |
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