Tea is an integral part of social and cultural life in South Africa.
It is the most commonly consumed beverage, after water, and is enjoyed throughout the day by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Often, it is enjoyed with snacks like pakoras, samosa, namkeen, toasts and biscuits along with some sweets.
But, did you know some of these dishes might be toxic for your body? While there aren’t any strict rules on what foods you should or shouldn’t eat with tea, there are some general guidelines that can enhance your tea drinking experience.
Here are some types of foods you may want to avoid having with tea.
1. Spicy or strong-flavoured foods
Foods that are highly seasoned, spicy or strong-flavoured can overpower the delicate flavour of tea, making it difficult to fully appreciate the tea’s aroma and taste. Examples of such foods include garlic, onion, hot sauce, curry, and chili.
2. Acidic foods
Foods that are high in acidity, such as citrus fruits, can interfere with the absorption of catechins (antioxidants) found in tea. If you consume acidic foods at the same time as tea, it can reduce the amount of catechins that your body can absorb.
3. Dairy products
Milk or cream can neutralize the polyphenols in tea, reducing their antioxidant benefits. However, this effect is less pronounced in black teas, and some people enjoy the creamy flavour of milk or cream in their tea. So, it’s a matter of personal preference.
4. Sweet foods
While sweet foods like cakes, biscuits, and chocolate may complement the flavour of tea, consuming too much sugar can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which can lead to energy crashes and other health issues. It’s best to consume sweet foods in moderation and pair them with a tea that has a complementary flavour.
5. Fried or greasy foods
Fried or greasy foods can be heavy and hard to digest, which can make you feel sluggish and uncomfortable. Tea can help aid digestion, but pairing it with heavy foods can negate this benefit.
The bottom line
In general, it’s best to choose light, savoury snacks or delicate pastries that won’t overwhelm the flavour of the tea. Foods that are high in fibre or protein can also help slow down the absorption of caffeine, preventing jitters and crashes. Ultimately, it’s up to you to experiment with different food and tea pairings to find what works best for your taste buds and body.
