Whether you like your tea iced or hot, with milk or honey, we can all agree that tea is one of the most comforting and popular beverages. Tea was used in healing ceremonies as well as recreational purposes. In any case, every nation likes drinking tea in their own way. So, here are the unique ways of drinking tea around the world.

Po cha, Tibet

Po cha, known as butter tea, is associated with Tibet though it’s popular across the regions of Southeast Asia. Po cha is commonly offered to guests in Tibetan households and meant to be topped up after every sip. To let others know that you’ve had your fill, you can simply leave your tea bowl untouched so that your host know that you’re finished without being offensive. It’s considered rude not to accept the initial offer.

Matcha, Japan

Among other things, mostly known for its high quality, powdered green tea called matcha, is very popular in Japan. This country celebrates tea through its famous Japanese tea ceremonies. The ceremony focuses on the beautiful process of making tea rather than the act of drinking tea. Many people observing tea ceremonies will notice the pre-determined and fluid movements of those performing in tea ceremonies. Japanese drinking culture is truly one of the most unique ways of drinking tea.

Masala chai, India

Masala chai is a black-tea-based drink that is traditionally made from leaves harvested in Northeast India. It’s brewed through a process known as decoction, during which buffalo or cow milk and water are brought to a boil with loose tea leaves, then flavored with a spice blend called karha. Tea has historically held medicinal value in Indian culture and is an extremely popular drink in that country.

Southern sweet tea, United States

United States, although it features tea influences from around the world, focuses on its trademark Southern sweet tea. The tea, usually made from Lipton tea and sugar, is considered a historical trademark to the South. Adding lemon for a sour kick to this sweet drink will enable you to have an American tea treat.

Earl Grey, England

Earl Grey is a catchall for any black tea flavored with bergamot oil, giving it a unique bitter, citrus flavor. There’s some debate among Brits as to how it should be prepared. Traditionalists will tell you to bring water to just below a boil in a nonreactive vessel like a glass kettle, steep loose-leaf tea for three to five minutes, and serve with lemon and sugar. Others will advise you to use milk instead of lemon. There is still an ongoing debate whether you should pour the milk before or after the tea.

Bubble tea, Taiwan

Bubble tea, or pearl milk tea, has its roots in Taiwan. This famous tea features small tapioca “pearls” covered in a sugar coating. The tapioca pearls can be taken hot or cold, and is usually paired with milk tea. There have been many modifications made to this traditional Taiwanese tea, including boozy boba. The next time you decide to sip a cup of tea, try changing it up with these different versions of tea from around the world. You can even try the unique ways of drinking tea, just like people do it in countries where tea is extremely popular. For more tea topics, please visit Teabloom.