Ostfriesentee
The Ostfriesentee is a strong, traditional tea blend from the northwestern German region of Ostfriesland. It mainly consists of various black teas, with Assam tea, known for its intense, malty flavor, making up the largest portion. The blend is often complemented by Ceylon and African teas, which give the tea a slightly bitter note, as well as Java, Sumatra, and Darjeeling varieties, which are known for their delicate and floral aromas. The exact composition of the blend varies depending on the tea merchant and recipe, but it generally remains strong and aromatic, as it is specially designed to be enjoyed with cream and rock sugar.
Tea culture in Ostfriesland
Ostfriesentee is not just a beverage but a central element of the East Frisian tea culture, which has a long tradition and special rituals. Ostfriesland is known worldwide for its high tea consumption: on average, East Frisians drink about 300 liters of tea per person per year, which is five times the average tea consumption in Germany.
The traditional preparation of Ostfriesentee takes place in several steps. First, rock sugar, called “Kluntje” in the regional dialect, is placed in the cup. The hot tea is then poured over the sugar, which produces a characteristic crackling sound. Afterward, a spoonful of cream is carefully added to the edge of the cup, so that it doesn’t mix but instead forms a “Wulkje” (small cloud). This method of preparation is called “mit Sahne und Kluntje” (with cream and rock sugar) and gives the strong tea a sweet and creamy note. Traditionally, the tea is not stirred to allow the different flavor layers to be experienced while drinking: first the mild cream, then the strong tea, and finally the sweetness of the sugar.
Teetied – the East Frisian tea time
In Ostfriesland, there are specific times when tea is drunk – the so-called "Teetied" (tea time). Typically, tea is served three times a day: in the morning, in the afternoon, and in the evening. Guests are always greeted with a cup of tea, and it is considered impolite to drink less than three cups – “Dreimal ist Ostfriesenrecht” (Three times is East Frisian right). It is also said that only after the third cup may one place a spoon in the cup to signal that they have had enough.
History of Ostfriesentee
The tradition of tea drinking in Ostfriesland dates back to the 17th century. Tea was brought to Germany via trade with the Netherlands and quickly gained popularity in the harsh coastal region. Tea not only offered a pleasant way to warm up during the cold months, but it also became established as a symbol of hospitality and sociability.
With the rise of industrialization and the growing popularity of Assam teas from India in the 19th century, the tradition of Ostfriesentee as we know it today was solidified. Tea merchants developed their own blends, reflecting regional preferences, and to this day, the exact recipes are often well-guarded family secrets.
Significance today
Ostfriesentee enjoys the status of a cultural asset in Germany. In 2016, the East Frisian tea culture was added to the nationwide register of intangible cultural heritage by the German UNESCO Commission. The tradition of tea is still highly valued in the region, and many tea shops offer special East Frisian blends, known for their strength and flavor.