Tea pairs well with many foods, but one of the most heavenly combinations for tea lovers who happen to be chocoholics is, of course, tea and chocolate.
While experimenting with different flavor combinations can yield tasty results, there is something of a science behind knowing which varieties of tea will best complement which types of chocolate. The key is to consider the strength, depth, and subtle notes of the flavors you’re pairing. In a proper tea and chocolate pairing, the tea should not wash away the flavors of the chocolate.
Tea and Chocolate Pairing Guide:
Pu’er tea + Dark Chocolate
It takes a dark chocolate to stand up to the rich earthy flavor of Pu’er. Be sure to take a long sniff of both before tasting. Your nose will give you an indication of what the tongue is about to experience.
Earl Grey + Marble Chocolate
Brew a strong cup of Earl Grey and add milk and sugar to your liking. Find its match with an equally dark and milky bar: 72% chocolate with a layer of caramelized white chocolate in the Dolcetta Artisan Sweets Black and Tan Bar.
Green Tea + Dark Chocolate
The earthy, grassy tones of green tea hit the right note with an equally complex piece of dark chocolate. Strike the best balance with a cup of green tea and Theo Pure 85% Dark Chocolate.
Ginger Tea + White Chocolate
Ginger has quite a kick, so it calls for the soothing creaminess of white chocolate. Drink ginger tea straight (no milk or sugar here) and try Leonidas White Blueberry Batons. The hints of berry provide sweetness alongside the spicy ginger. The afternoon slump is looking up!
Chai Tea + Spiced Chocolate
To enjoy all the flavors of chai, enhance it with milk and sugar. Spicy-sweet chai needs a spicy-sweet bar, like Rococo Cardamom Dark. It’s dark and sophisticated, so it won’t overpower the tea, but it won’t pale in comparison either.
Where possible avoid pairing flavoured teas with fine chocolate. The artificial, and even natural blended flavours will mask what the chocolatier is trying to express through the bar. You don’t want too much going happening on the palate, and you don’t want overwhelming aromas.
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