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[[File:Tea ceremony.jpg|thumb|right|A man performs a [[tea ceremony]].]]

[[File:Tea ceremony.jpg|thumb|right|A man performs a [[tea ceremony]].]]

'''Tea culture''' is defined by the way [[tea]] is made and consumed, by the way the people interact with tea, and by the aesthetics surrounding tea drinking, it includes aspects of: tea production, tea brewing, tea arts and ceremony, society, history, health, ethics, education, and communication and media issues.

'''Tea culture''' is defined by the way [[tea]] is made and consumed, by the way the people interact with tea, and by the aesthetics surrounding tea drinking, it includes aspects of: tea production, tea brewing, tea arts and ceremony, society, history, health, ethics, education, and communication and media issues.

Tea is commonly consumed at social events, and many cultures have created intricate formal ceremonies for these events. Western examples of these are afternoon tea and the [[Tea party (social gathering)|tea party]]. [[Tea ceremony|Tea ceremonies]], with its roots in the [[Chinese tea culture]], differ among eastern countries, such as the [[Japanese tea ceremony|Japanese]] or [[Korean tea ceremony]]. However, it may also differ in preparation, such as in Tibet, where tea is commonly brewed with salt and butter. Tea also plays an important role in some countries.

Tea is commonly consumed at social events, and many cultures have created intricate formal ceremonies for these events. Western examples of these are afternoon tea and the tea party. [[Tea ceremony|Tea ceremonies]], with its roots in the [[Chinese tea culture]], differ among eastern countries, such as the [[Japanese tea ceremony]] or [[Korean tea ceremony]]. However, it may also differ in preparation, such as in Tibet, where tea is commonly brewed with salt and butter. Tea also plays an important role in some countries.

The British Empire spread its own interpretation of tea to its dominions and colonies including regions that today comprise the states of India, Hong Kong, and Pakistan which had existing tea customs, as well as, regions such as East Africa (modern day Kenya. Tanzania, and Uganda), which did not have existing tea customs.

The British Empire spread its own interpretation of tea to its dominions and colonies including regions that today comprise the states of India, Hong Kong, and Pakistan which had existing tea customs, as well as, regions such as East Africa (modern day Kenya. Tanzania, and Uganda), which did not have existing tea customs.

==East Asia==

==East Asia==

===China===

===China===

 

[[File:Chinese tea ceremony.jpg|thumb|right|Turning the cups in a Chinese tea ceremony]]

[[File:Chinese tea ceremony.jpg|thumb|right|Turning the cups in a Chinese tea ceremony]]

Due to the importance of tea in Chinese society and culture, tea houses can be found in most Chinese neighbourhoods and business districts. Chinese-style tea houses offer dozens of varieties of hot and cold tea concoctions. They also serve a variety of tea-friendly and/or tea-related snacks. Beginning in the late afternoon, the typical Chinese tea house quickly becomes packed with students and business people, and later at night plays host to insomniacs and night owls simply looking for a place to relax. Formal tea houses also exist. They provide a range of Chinese and Japanese tea leaves, as well as tea making accoutrements and a better class of snack food. Finally there are the tea vendors, who specialize in the sale of tea leaves, pots, and other related paraphernalia. Tea is an important item in Chinese culture and is mentioned in the ''[[Seven necessities]] of (Chinese) daily life''.

Due to the importance of tea in Chinese society and culture, tea houses can be found in most Chinese neighbourhoods and business districts. Chinese-style tea houses offer dozens of varieties of hot and cold tea concoctions. They also serve a variety of tea-friendly and/or tea-related snacks. Beginning in the late afternoon, the typical Chinese tea house quickly becomes packed with students and business people, and later at night plays host to insomniacs and night owls simply looking for a place to relax. Formal tea houses also exist. They provide a range of Chinese and Japanese tea leaves, as well as tea making accoutrements and a better class of snack food. Finally there are the tea vendors, who specialize in the sale of tea leaves, pots, and other related paraphernalia. Tea is an important item in Chinese culture and is mentioned in the ''[[Seven necessities]] of (Chinese) daily life''.

====Two periods====

====Two periods====

 

In [[China]], at least as early as the [[Tang Dynasty]], tea was an object of connoisseurship; in the [[Song Dynasty]] formal tea-tasting parties were held, comparable to modern wine tastings. As much as in modern wine tastings, the proper vessel was important and much attention was paid to matching the tea to an aesthetically appealing serving vessel.

In [[China]], at least as early as the [[Tang Dynasty]], tea was an object of connoisseurship; in the [[Song Dynasty]] formal tea-tasting parties were held, comparable to modern wine tastings. As much as in modern wine tastings, the proper vessel was important and much attention was paid to matching the tea to an aesthetically appealing serving vessel.

=====Tea brick phase=====

=====Tea brick phase=====

[[File:Russiantea1.jpg|thumb|right|A tea brick made for the Russian Imperial Army of Czar Nicholas II]]

[[File:Russiantea1.jpg|thumb|right|A tea brick made for the Russian Imperial Army of Czar Nicholas II]]

Tea served prior to the [[Ming Dynasty]] was typically made from [[tea brick]]s. Upon harvesting, the tea leaves were either partially dried or were thoroughly dried and ground before being pressed into bricks. The pressing of Pu-erh is likely a vestige of this process. Tea bricks were also sometimes used as currency.<ref>Forbes, Andrew ; Henley, David (2011). ''China's Ancient Tea Horse Road''. Chiang Mai: Cognoscenti Books. ASIN: B005DQV7Q2</ref> To improve its resiliency as currency, some tea bricks were mixed with binding agents such as blood.{{Citation needed|date=September 2008}} Serving the tea from tea bricks required multiple steps:

 

Tea served prior to the [[Ming Dynasty]] was typically made from [[tea brick]]s. Upon harvesting, the tea leaves were either partially dried or were thoroughly dried and ground before being pressed into bricks. The pressing of Pu-erh is likely a vestige of this process. Tea bricks were also sometimes used as currency. To improve its resiliency as currency, some tea bricks were mixed with binding agents such as blood. Serving the tea from tea bricks required multiple steps:

*''Toasting'': Tea bricks are usually first toasted over a fire to destroy any mould or insects that may have burrowed into the tea bricks. Such infestation sometimes occurred since the bricks were stored openly in warehouses and storerooms. Toasting also likely imparted a pleasant flavour to the resulting tea.

*''Toasting'': Tea bricks are usually first toasted over a fire to destroy any mould or insects that may have burrowed into the tea bricks. Such infestation sometimes occurred since the bricks were stored openly in warehouses and storerooms. Toasting also likely imparted a pleasant flavour to the resulting tea.

*''Grinding'': The tea brick was broken up and ground to a fine powder. This practice survives in Japanese powdered tea (''Matcha'').

*''Grinding'': The tea brick was broken up and ground to a fine powder. This practice survives in Japanese powdered tea (''Matcha'').

=====Loose-leaf tea phase=====

=====Loose-leaf tea phase=====

After 1391, the [[Hongwu Emperor]], the founder of the [[Ming Dynasty]], decreed that tributes of tea to the court were to be changed from brick to loose-leaf form. The imperial decree quickly transformed the tea drinking habits of the people, changing from whisked teas to steeped teas. The arrival of the new method for preparing tea also required the creation or use of new vessels.

After 1391, the [[Hongwu Emperor]], the founder of the [[Ming Dynasty]], decreed that tributes of tea to the court were to be changed from brick to loose-leaf form. The imperial decree quickly transformed the tea drinking habits of the people, changing from whisked teas to steeped teas. The arrival of the new method for preparing tea also required the creation or use of new vessels.

*The ''tea pot'' was needed such that the tea leaves can be steeped separately from the drinking vessel for an infusion of proper concentration. The tea also needs to be kept warm and the tea leaves must be separated from the resulting infusion when required.

*The ''tea pot'' was needed such that the tea leaves can be steeped separately from the drinking vessel for an infusion of proper concentration. The tea also needs to be kept warm and the tea leaves must be separated from the resulting infusion when required.

*''Tea caddies'' and containers also became necessary in order to keep the tea and conserve its flavour. This was due to the fact that tea leaves do not preserve as well as tea bricks. Furthermore, the natural aroma of tea became the focus of the tea drinking due to the new preparation method.

*''Tea caddies'' and containers also became necessary in order to keep the tea and conserve its flavour. This was due to the fact that tea leaves do not preserve as well as tea bricks. Furthermore, the natural aroma of tea became the focus of the tea drinking due to the new preparation method.

====Social nexus====

====Social nexus====

Burma's street culture is basically a tea culture<ref name="Brown"/> as people, mostly men but also women and families, hang out in tea shops reading the paper or chatting away with friends, exchanging news, gossip and jokes, nursing cups of Indian tea served with a diverse range of snacks from cream cakes to [[China|Chinese]] fried breadsticks ([[youtiao]]) and steamed buns ([[baozi]]) to [[India]]n [[naan]] bread and [[samosa]]s. Green tea is customarily the first thing to be served free of charge as soon as a customer sits down at a table in all restaurants as well as teashops.

Burma's street culture is basically a tea culture as people, mostly men but also women and families, hang out in tea shops reading the paper or chatting away with friends, exchanging news, gossip and jokes, nursing cups of Indian tea served with a diverse range of snacks from cream cakes to [[China|Chinese]] fried breadsticks (youtiao) and steamed buns (baozi) to Indian naan bread and samosas. Green tea is customarily the first thing to be served free of charge as soon as a customer sits down at a table in all restaurants as well as teashops.

Pubs and clubs, unlike in the West, have remained a minority pursuit so far. Teashops are found from the smallest village to major cities in every neighbourhood up and down the country.<ref name="Brown"/> They are open from the crack of dawn for [[breakfast]] till late in the evening, and some are open 24 hours catering for long distance drivers and travellers. One of the most popular teashops in [[Yangon]] in the late 1970s was called ''Shwe Hleiga'' (Golden Stairs) by popular acclaim as it was just a pavement stall, with low tables and stools for the customers, at the bottom of a stairwell in downtown Yangon. Busy bus stops and terminals as well as markets have several teashops. Train journeys in Myanmar also feature hawkers who jump aboard with giant kettles of tea for thirsty passengers.

Pubs and clubs, unlike in the West, have remained a minority pursuit so far. Teashops are found from the smallest village to major cities in every neighbourhood up and down the country. They are open from the crack of dawn for breakfast till late in the evening, and some are open 24 hours catering for long distance drivers and travellers. One of the most popular teashops in Yangon in the late 1970s was called ''Shwe Hleiga'' (Golden Stairs) by popular acclaim as it was just a pavement stall, with low tables and stools for the customers, at the bottom of a stairwell in downtown Yangon. Busy bus stops and terminals as well as markets have several teashops. Train journeys in Myanmar also feature hawkers who jump aboard with giant kettles of tea for thirsty passengers.

====Lahpet====

====Lahpet====

[[File:Laphet oke.JPG|thumb|Lahpet served in a lacquer dish]]

[[File:Laphet oke.JPG|thumb|Lahpet served in a lacquer dish]]

Lahpet (pickled tea) is served in one of two ways:

Lahpet (pickled tea) is served in one of two ways:

# ''A-hlu lahpet'' or [[Mandalay]] lahpet is served in a plate or traditionally in a shallow [[lacquerware]] dish called ''lahpet ohk'' with a lid and divided into small compartments—pickled tea laced with [[sesame]] oil in a central compartment, and other ingredients such as crisp fried garlic, peas and peanuts, toasted sesame, crushed dried shrimp, preserved shredded ginger and fried shredded coconut in other compartments encircling it. It may be served as a snack or after a meal with green tea either on special occasions or just for the family and visitors. ''A-hlu'' means alms and is synonymous with a novitiation ceremony called ''[[Shinbyu]]'' although lahpet is served in this form also at ''hsun jway'' (offering a meal to monks) and weddings. Invitation to a ''shinbyu'' is traditionally by calling from door to door with a ''lahpet ohk'', and acceptance is indicated by its partaking.

# ''A-hlu lahpet'' or Mandalay lahpet is served in a plate or traditionally in a shallow lacquerware dish called ''lahpet ohk'' with a lid and divided into small compartments—pickled tea laced with sesame oil in a central compartment, and other ingredients such as crisp fried garlic, peas and peanuts, toasted sesame, crushed dried shrimp, preserved shredded ginger and fried shredded coconut in other compartments encircling it. It may be served as a snack or after a meal with green tea either on special occasions or just for the family and visitors. ''A-hlu'' means alms and is synonymous with a novitiation ceremony called ''Shinbyu'' although lahpet is served in this form also at ''hsun jway'' (offering a meal to monks) and weddings. Invitation to a ''shinbyu'' is traditionally by calling from door to door with a ''lahpet ohk'', and acceptance is indicated by its partaking.

# ''Lahpet thouk'' or [[Yangon]] lahpet is pickled tea salad very popular all over Myanmar especially with women, and some teashops would have it on their menu as well as Burmese restaurants. It is prepared by mixing all the above ingredients without the coconut but in addition includes fresh tomatoes, garlic and green chilli, and is dressed with [[fish sauce]], sesame or peanut oil, and a squeeze of lime.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.innwa.com/dev/kitchen/news/get-news.asp?id=142|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20060410024414/http://www.innwa.com/dev/kitchen/news/get-news.asp?id=142|archivedate=2006-04-10|title=Lephet - Green Tea Salad|last=Haber|first=Daniel|date=March 31, 2002|publisher=''Swe Sone'' magazine|accessdate=2007-04-11}}</ref> Some of the most popular brands sold in packets include ''Ayee Taung lahpet'' from Mandalay, ''Shwe Toak'' from [[Mogok]], ''[[Yuzana Company|Yuzana]]'' and ''Pinpyo Ywetnu'' from Yangon. ''Hnapyan jaw'' (twice fried) ready-mixed garnish is also available today.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.myanmar.gov.mm/myanmartimes/no184/MyanmarTimes10-184/049.htm|title=Pickled tea - a traditional favourite|last=Balun|first=George|publisher=''[[Myanmar Times]]'' vol.10 no.184|accessdate=2007-04-11}}</ref>

# ''Lahpet thouk'' or [[Yangon]] lahpet is pickled tea salad very popular all over Myanmar especially with women, and some teashops would have it on their menu as well as Burmese restaurants. It is prepared by mixing all the above ingredients without the coconut but in addition includes fresh tomatoes, garlic and green chilli, and is dressed with [[fish sauce]], sesame or peanut oil, and a squeeze of lime. Some of the most popular brands sold in packets include ''Ayee Taung lahpet'' from Mandalay, ''Shwe Toak'' from Mogok, ''Yuzana'' and ''Pinpyo Ywetnu'' from Yangon. ''Hnapyan jaw'' (twice fried) ready-mixed garnish is also available today.

===Taiwan===

===Taiwan===

 

Taiwanese tea culture, include tea arts, tea ceremony, and a very social way of enjoying tea. While the most common teas are oolongs especially Taiwanese oolongs such as Iron Goddess and Alpine Oolong; Puers, black teas and green teas are also popular. Many of the classical arts can be seen in the tea culture, examples: calligraphy, flower arts, incense arts, and such. In [[Taiwan]] most people drink [[tea]], and tea is not only a drink, but also a part of the culture. The tea culture of Taiwan can be traced back to the root from [[Chinese tea culture]]. Many people visit one of the numerous traditional [[teahouses]] or "tea-arts" shops, located all over Taiwan.

Taiwanese tea culture, include tea arts, tea ceremony, and a very social way of enjoying tea. While the most common teas are oolongs especially Taiwanese oolongs such as Iron Goddess and Alpine Oolong; Puers, black teas and green teas are also popular. Many of the classical arts can be seen in the tea culture, examples: calligraphy, flower arts, incense arts, and such. In Taiwan most people drink [[tea]], and tea is not only a drink, but also a part of the culture. The tea culture of Taiwan can be traced back to the root from [[Chinese tea culture]]. Many people visit one of the numerous traditional [[tea house]]s or "tea-arts" shops, located all over Taiwan.

Taiwan is the producer of some of the world's high-end green and oolong teas. It is also famous as country of origin for ''[[Bubble tea]]''.

Taiwan is the producer of some of the world's high-end green and oolong teas. It is also famous as country of origin for ''[[Bubble tea]]''.

====Bubble tea====

====Bubble tea====

 

Bubble tea, pearl milk tea (Chinese: 珍珠奶茶; pinyin: zhēnzhū nǎichá), or boba milk tea (波霸奶茶; bōbà nǎichá) is a tea beverage mixture with milk which may include balls of tapioca. Originating in [[Taiwan]], it is especially popular in Asia (Taiwan, People's Republic of China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines, and Singapore) as well as [[Europe]], [[Canada]], and the [[United States]]. It is also known as black pearl tea or tapioca tea.

Bubble tea, pearl milk tea (珍珠奶茶), or boba milk tea (波霸奶茶) is a tea beverage mixture with milk which may include balls of tapioca. Originating in Taiwan, it is especially popular in Asia (Taiwan, People's Republic of China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines, and Singapore) as well as Europe, Canada, and the United States. It is also known as black pearl tea or tapioca tea.

===Tibet===

===Tibet===

Butter, milk, and salt are added to brewed tea and churned to form a hot drink called [[Po cha]] (''bod ja'', where ''bod'' means Tibetan and ''ja'' tea) in [[Tibet]]. The concoction is also sometimes called cha su mar, mainly in Kham, or Eastern Tibet. Traditionally, the drink is made with a domestic brick tea and [[yak|dri]]'s milk (a dri is the female of the animal whose male is called yak), then mixed in a churn for several minutes. Using a generic black tea, milk and butter, and shaking or blending work well too, although the unique taste of yak milk is difficult to replicate. (see [http://web.archive.org/web/20080730010343/http://www.tanc.org/new_food/pocha.html recipe])

Butter, milk, and salt are added to brewed tea and churned to form a hot drink called Po cha (''bod ja'', where ''bod'' means Tibetan and ''ja'' tea) in Tibet. The concoction is also sometimes called cha su mar, mainly in Kham, or Eastern Tibet. Traditionally, the drink is made with a domestic brick tea and yak milk, then mixed in a churn for several minutes. Using a generic black tea, milk and butter, and shaking or blending work well too, although the unique taste of yak milk is difficult to replicate.

Tibet tea drinking has many rules. One such concerns an invitation to a house for tea. The host will first pour some highland barley wine. The guest must dip his finger in the wine and flick some away. This will be done three times to represent respect for the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. The cup will then be refilled two more times and on the last time it must be emptied or the host will be insulted. After this the host will present a gift of butter tea to the guest, who will accept it without touching the rim of the bowl. The guest will then pour a glass for himself, and must finish the glass or be seen as rude.

Tibet tea drinking has many rules. One such concerns an invitation to a house for tea. The host will first pour some highland barley wine. The guest must dip his finger in the wine and flick some away. This will be done three times to represent respect for the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. The cup will then be refilled two more times and on the last time it must be emptied or the host will be insulted. After this the host will present a gift of butter tea to the guest, who will accept it without touching the rim of the bowl. The guest will then pour a glass for himself, and must finish the glass or be seen as rude.

===Thailand===

===Thailand===

[[Thai tea]] (also known as '''Thai iced tea''') or "cha-yen" ({{lang-th|ชาเย็น}}) when ordered in [[Thailand]], is a drink made from strongly-brewed [[black tea|red tea]]<ref>[http://www.blueray.com/thaitea/index.html]{{dead link|date=June 2010}}</ref> that usually contains added [[anise]], red and yellow [[food colouring]], and sometimes other spices as well. This tea is sweetened with [[sugar]] and [[condensed milk]] and served chilled. [[evaporated milk|Evaporated]] or whole milk is generally poured over the tea and ice before serving—it is never mixed prior to serving—to add taste and creamy appearance. Locally, it is served in a traditional tall glass and when ordered [[take-out]], it is poured over the crushed [[ice]] in a clear (or translucent) plastic bag. It can also be made into a [[frappé coffee|frappé]] at more westernised vendors.

[[Thai tea]] (also known as '''Thai iced tea''' or "cha-yen") when ordered in Thailand, is a drink made from strongly-brewed [[black tea]] that usually contains added anise, red and yellow food colouring, and sometimes other spices as well. This tea is sweetened with sugar and condensed milk and served chilled. Evaporated or whole milk is generally poured over the tea and ice before serving—it is never mixed prior to serving—to add taste and creamy appearance. Locally, it is served in a traditional tall glass and when ordered [[take-out]], it is poured over the crushed ice in a clear (or translucent) plastic bag. It can also be made into a frappé at more westernised vendors.

It is popular in [[Southeast Asia]] and in many American restaurants that serve [[Thai cuisine|Thai]] or [[Vietnamese cuisine|Vietnamese]] food, especially on the West Coast. Although Thai tea is not the same as [[bubble tea]], a Southeast and East Asian beverage that contains large black pearls of [[tapioca]] [[starch]], Thai tea with pearls is a popular flavour of bubble tea.

It is popular in Southeast Asia and in many American restaurants that serve Thai]] or Vietnamese food, especially on the West Coast. Although Thai tea is not the same as [[bubble tea]], a Southeast and East Asian beverage that contains large black pearls of tapioca starch, Thai tea with pearls is a popular flavour of bubble tea.

Green tea is also becoming very popular in Thailand, spawning many different variations such as barley green tea, rose green tea, lemon green tea, etc. Thai green tea, however, is not to be confused with traditional Japanese green tea. Thai green tea tends to be very heavily commercialized and the taste is sweeter and easier to appreciate than other bitter variations.

Green tea is also becoming very popular in Thailand, spawning many different variations such as barley green tea, rose green tea, lemon green tea, etc. Thai green tea, however, is not to be confused with traditional Japanese green tea. Thai green tea tends to be very heavily commercialized and the taste is sweeter and easier to appreciate than other bitter variations.

==South Asia==

==South Asia==

===India===

===India===

 

One of the world's largest producer of tea, [[India]] is a country where tea is popular all over as a breakfast and evening drink. It is often served as [[masala chai]] with milk and sugar, and sometimes scented. Almost all the tea consumed is black Indian tea. Usually tea leaves are boiled in water while making tea, and milk is added.

One of the world's largest producer of tea, India is a country where tea is popular all over as a breakfast and evening drink. It is often served as [[masala chai]] with milk and sugar, and sometimes scented. Almost all the tea consumed is black Indian tea. Usually tea leaves are boiled in water while making tea, and milk is added.

Offering tea to visitors is the cultural norm in India.

Offering tea to visitors is the cultural norm in India.

There are three most famous regions in Indian to produce black teas- [[Darjeeling]], [[Assam]] and [[The Nilgiris District|Nilgiri]]. "Strong, heavy and fragrance" are 3 criteria for judging black tea.

There are three most famous regions in Indian to produce black teas- [[Darjeeling]], [[Assam]] and Nilgiri. "Strong, heavy and fragrance" are 3 criteria for judging black tea.

[[Darjeeling tea]] is known for its delicate aroma and light colour and is aptly termed as "the champagne of teas", which has high aroma and yellow or brown liquid after brewing. [[Assam tea]] is known for its robust taste and dark colour, and [[Nilgiri tea]] is dark, intensely aromatic and flavoured. [[Assam]] produces the largest quantity of Tea in India, mostly of the [[Crush, Tear, Curl|CTC]] variety, and is one of the biggest suppliers of major international brands such as [[Lipton]] and [[Tetley]]. The Tetley Brand, formerly British and one of the largest, is now owned by the [[Tata Tea Limited]].

[[Darjeeling tea]] is known for its delicate aroma and light colour and is aptly termed as "the champagne of teas", which has high aroma and yellow or brown liquid after brewing. [[Assam tea]] is known for its robust taste and dark colour, and [[Nilgiri tea]] is dark, intensely aromatic and flavoured. [[Assam]] produces the largest quantity of Tea in India, mostly of the [[Crush, Tear, Curl|CTC]] variety, and is one of the biggest suppliers of major international brands such as [[Lipton]] and [[Tetley]]. The Tetley Brand, formerly British and one of the largest, is now owned by the Tata Tea Limited.

 

On April 21, 2012 the Deputy Chairman of [[Planning Commission (India)]], [[Montek Singh Ahluwalia]], said that tea would be declared as national drink by April 2013.<ref>http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article3339621.ece</ref><ref>http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-04-30/india/31506187_1_tea-industry-black-tea-tea-output</ref> The move is expected to boost the tea industry in the country. Speaking on the occasion, [[Assam]] Chief Minister [[Tarun Gogoi]] said a special package for the tea industry would be announced in the future to ensure its development.<ref>http://ibnlive.in.com/news/tea-to-be-declared-national-drink-montek/250865-3.html</ref>

 

Tea is popular all over [[Pakistan]]. During [[History of Pakistan#Colonial era|British Rule]] tea became very popular in Lahore. Tea is usually consumed at breakfast, during lunch breaks at the workplace, and in the evening at home. Evening tea may be consumed with biscuits or cake. Guests are typically offered a choice between tea and soft drinks. It is common practice for homeowners to offer tea breaks to hired labour, and sometimes even provide them with tea during the breaks. Tea offered to labour is typically strong and has more sugar in it.

Tea is popular all over [[Pakistan]]. During [[History of Pakistan#Colonial era|British Rule]] tea became very popular in Lahore. Tea is usually consumed at breakfast, during lunch breaks at the workplace, and in the evening at home. Evening tea may be consumed with biscuits or cake. Guests are typically offered a choice between tea and soft drinks. It is common practice for homeowners to offer tea breaks to hired labour, and sometimes even provide them with tea during the breaks. Tea offered to labour is typically strong and has more sugar in it.

In [[Pakistan]], both [[black tea|black]] and [[green tea]]s are popular and are known locally as ''sabz chai'' and ''[[kahwah]]'', respectively. The popular green tea called [[kahwah]] is often served after every meal in [[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]] and the [[Pashtun people|Pashtun]] belt of [[Balochistan (Pakistan)|Balochistan]]. In the [[Kashmir]] region of [[Pakistan]], Kashmiri chai or "[[Noon Chai|noon chai]]," a pink, milky tea with [[pistachios]] and [[cardamom]], is consumed primarily at special occasions, weddings, and during the winter months when it is sold in many kiosks. In [[Lahore]] and other cities of [[Punjab, India|Punjab]] this Kashmiri Chai or Cha (as pronounced in Punjabi, Kosher as well as in many Chinese dialects ) is common drink by Kashmiri diaspora settled in Punjab since Nineteenth Century .They prefer in traditional Salty taste, rather than sea salt Himalyan Rock salt also called Lahori namak is preferred but no sugar is added . It is taken with Bakar Khani as well as Kashmiri Kulcha (namkeen / salty version of Khand Kulcha) . Namkeen Chai or Noon / Loon Cha or commonly called Kashmri Chai and some times Sheer (milk ) Cha or sabz chai(Green Tea as the same tea are used for making Khahwa /Green Tea) is sold and seen [[Gowal Mandi]] kiosks with Salt for Kashmiri as well as with sugar and pistachios for Non- Kashmris or those who like it with sugar . In the northern Pakistan regions of [[Chitral]] and [[Gilgit-Baltistan]], a salty buttered Tibetan style tea is consumed.

In Pakistan, both black and[green teas are popular and are known locally as ''sabz chai'' and ''kahwah'', respectively. The popular green tea called kahwah is often served after every meal in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Pashtun belt of Balochistan. In the Kashmir region of Pakistan, Kashmiri chai or "noon chai," a pink, milky tea with pistachios and cardamom, is consumed primarily at special occasions, weddings, and during the winter months when it is sold in many kiosks. In Lahore and other cities of Punjab this Kashmiri Chai or Cha (as pronounced in Punjabi, Kosher as well as in many Chinese dialects ) is common drink by Kashmiri diaspora settled in Punjab since Nineteenth Century .They prefer in traditional Salty taste, rather than sea salt Himalyan Rock salt also called Lahori namak is preferred but no sugar is added . It is taken with Bakar Khani as well as Kashmiri Kulcha (namkeen / salty version of Khand Kulcha) . Namkeen Chai or Noon / Loon Cha or commonly called Kashmri Chai and some times Sheer (milk ) Cha or sabz chai(Green Tea as the same tea are used for making Khahwa /Green Tea) is sold and seen Gowal Mandi kiosks with Salt for Kashmiri as well as with sugar and pistachios for Non- Kashmris or those who like it with sugar . In the northern Pakistan regions of Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan, a salty buttered Tibetan style tea is consumed.

===Sri Lanka===

===Sri Lanka===

[[File:Tea plantation, Sri Lanka.jpg|thumb|right|Tea plantation, Sri Lanka]]

[[File:Tea plantation, Sri Lanka.jpg|thumb|right|Tea plantation, Sri Lanka]]

In [[Sri Lanka]], usually black tea is served with milk and sugar, but the milk is always warmed. Tea is a hugely popular beverage among the Sri-Lankan people, and part of its land is surrounded by the many hills of tea plantations that spread for miles. Drinking tea has become part of the culture of Sri Lanka.

In [[Sri Lanka]], usually black tea is served with milk and sugar, but the milk is always warmed. Tea is a hugely popular beverage among the Sri-Lankan people, and part of its land is surrounded by the many hills of tea plantations that spread for miles. Drinking tea has become part of the culture of Sri Lanka.

[[File:Podstakannik and glass of tea.jpg|thumb|Glass of [[tea]] in a Kolchugino classic [[podstakannik|Soviet glass holder]] commemorating Soviet space exploration.]]

[[File:Podstakannik and glass of tea.jpg|thumb|Glass of [[tea]] in a Kolchugino classic [[podstakannik|Soviet glass holder]] commemorating Soviet space exploration.]]

A Russian tea [[glass-holder]] is a traditional way of serving and drinking tea in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, other CIS and ex-USSR countries.<ref name="rupodstak">[http://www.kmizar.ru/en/podstak.php Podstakanniks],{{dead link|date=June 2010}} made in [[Russia]], [[Kolchugino]] town</ref> Expensive podstakanniks are made from [[silver]], classic series are made mostly from [[nickel silver]], [[cupronickel]], and other alloys with [[nickel]], [[silver]] or [[gold]] plating. In [[Russia]], it is customary to drink tea brewed separately in a teapot and diluted with freshly boiled water ('pair-of-teapots tea', 'чай парой чайников'). Traditionally, the tea is very strong, its strength often indicating the hosts' degree of hospitality. The traditional implement for boiling water for tea used to be the [[samovar]] (and sometimes it still is, though usually electric). The [[podstakannik]] ('подстаканник'), or tea glass holder (literally "thing under the glass"), is also a part of Russian tea tradition. Tea is a family event, and is usually served after each meal with sugar (one to three teaspoonfuls per cup) and lemon (but without milk), and an assortment of jams, pastries and confections. Black tea is commonly used, with green tea gaining popularity as a more healthy, more "Oriental" alternative. Teabags are not used in the traditional Russian tea ceremony, only loose, large-leaf black tea.

A Russian tea glass-holder is a traditional way of serving and drinking tea in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, other CIS and ex-USSR countries. Expensive podstakanniks are made from silver, classic series are made mostly from nickel silver, cupronickel, and other alloys with nickel, silver or gold plating. In Russia, it is customary to drink tea brewed separately in a teapot and diluted with freshly boiled water ('pair-of-teapots tea', 'чай парой чайников'). Traditionally, the tea is very strong, its strength often indicating the hosts' degree of hospitality. The traditional implement for boiling water for tea used to be the [[samovar]] (and sometimes it still is, though usually electric). The podstakannik ('подстаканник'), or tea glass holder (literally "thing under the glass"), is also a part of Russian tea tradition. Tea is a family event, and is usually served after each meal with sugar (one to three teaspoonfuls per cup) and lemon (but without milk), and an assortment of jams, pastries and confections. Black tea is commonly used, with green tea gaining popularity as a more healthy, more "Oriental" alternative. Teabags are not used in the traditional Russian tea ceremony, only loose, large-leaf black tea.

 

===Slovakia===

===Slovakia===

Less visible than in the Czech Republic, tea culture also exists in [[Slovakia]]. Although considered an underground environment by many, [[tea room]]s continue to pop up almost in every middle-sized town. These tea rooms are appreciated for offering quiet environments with pleasant music. More importantly, they are usually non-smoking, unlike most pubs and cafés.

Less visible than in the Czech Republic, tea culture also exists in Slovakia. Although considered an underground environment by many, tea rooms continue to pop up almost in every middle-sized town. These tea rooms are appreciated for offering quiet environments with pleasant music. More importantly, they are usually non-smoking, unlike most pubs and cafés.

==Middle East and Africa==

==Middle East and Africa==

===Turkey===

===Turkey===

[[File:Turkish tea.jpg|thumb|right|Turkish tea, served in a typical glass]]

[[File:Turkish tea.jpg|thumb|right|Turkish tea, served in a typical glass]]

Turkey has the highest per capita consumption in the world at 2.7&nbsp;kg (in 2010),<ref name="Indian Tea Industry Report">[http://agritrade.iift.ac.in/html/Training/ASEAN%20%E2%80%93%20India%20FTA%20%20Emerging%20Issues%20for%20Trade%20in%20Agriculture/Tea%20Export.pdf]</ref> followed by Ireland (2.7&nbsp;kg) and the UK (2.1&nbsp;kg). All these figures represent consumption of packaged and branded tea sales.

Turkish tea or Çay is produced on the eastern Black Sea coast, which has a mild climate with high precipitation and fertile soil. Turkish tea is typically prepared using two stacked kettles especially designed for tea preparation. Water is brought to a boil in the larger lower kettle and then some of the water is used to fill the smaller kettle on top and steep several spoons of loose tea leaves, producing a very strong tea. When served, the remaining water is used to dilute the tea on an individual basis, giving each consumer the choice between strong ("koyu"/dark) or weak ("açık"/light). Tea is drunk from small glasses to enjoy it hot in addition to show its colour, with lumps of beetroot sugar.To a lesser extent than in other Muslim countries, tea replaces both alcohol and coffee as the social beverage. Within Turkey the tea is usually known as [[Rize tea]].

===Egypt===

===Egypt===