Ah, Earl Grey tea! The classic British beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s a staple in many homes and a favorite of countless tea aficionados. But what goes best with this delightful drink?
Well, there are plenty of options to go along with your cup of Earl Grey – from light snacks to full-on meals. Whether you’re looking for something sweet or savory, we’ve got the perfect suggestion for your next afternoon cuppa.
So grab your teacup and let’s get started on finding the best accompaniment to an exquisite cup of Earl Grey.
What Goes Well With Earl Grey Tea?
Some common accompaniments to Earl Grey tea include citrus fruits, stone fruits, berry fruits, honey, herbs and spices, shortbread cookies or other biscuits and cheese. Earl Grey tea is a blend of black tea flavored with bergamot (a citrus fruit) and has a distinct flavor that pairs well with many other ingredients.
1. Citrus Fruits
If you are looking to jazz up your cup of Earl Grey Tea, you could look no further than citrus fruits! Sweet and sour notes of lemons, oranges, tangerines, limes, yuzu or bergamots can be a great pairing when contrasted with the boldness of the tea.
Adding any of these to your cup can give it new flavours and shapes which will make it more interesting. Of course, everyone has their own unique preference when it comes to taste combinations, but for me, citrus fruits make the perfect accompaniment for Earl Grey tea.
2. Stone Fruits
If you want to get the full experience of Earl Grey tea, pairing it with stone fruit is a match made in heaven. Not only are peaches, plums and nectarines incredibly delicious but they also work as the perfect complement to this classic British beverage.
Not enough people know that stone fruits are often a great refresher for tea – their juicy sweetness perfectly offsets any bitterness coming from the tea leaves. The combination of both provides an unbeatable flavor that anyone is sure to enjoy
3. Berry Fruits
When discussing what goes great with Earl Grey tea, no conversation would be complete without a mention of berry fruits. There’s something so magical about the combination of tart flavours which makes it one of the most popular choices for tea connoisseurs and casual tea-sippers alike.
A classic cup of English breakfast tea brewed perfectly with a blend of blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries provide layers of delight in taste and texture that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re enjoying it plain or sweetened, the taste is sure to bring a smile to your lips
4. Honey
Honey is another classic pairing for Earl Grey- it’s warm and comforting sweetness pairs perfectly with the strong and aromatic flavor of the tea leaves. Not only does it add a pleasant flavor, but it also brings with it the added benefit of being packed with health benefits.
Whether you add it directly to your cup or add a spoonful of honey to a mug of milk with tea leaves, the warmth of this sweet addition will make your cup of Earl Grey tea even better.
5. Herbs and Spices
Enjoying a cup of Earl Grey tea can be an absolute delight, but adding a few herbs and spices can truly turn it into something special. Lavender is one such ingredient that adds a floral note to the citrusy tea and transforms it into a fragrant masterpiece.
Cardamom adds a hint of sweet and pungent flavor, while cinnamon induces warmth that is perfect for cold winter evenings. Mix and match these herbs and spices to find your ideal tea to whisk away those blues or to enjoy with friends.
6. Shortbread Cookies or Other Biscuits
What better way to complete a cup of Earl Grey tea than with a delicious biscuit? Shortbread cookies are an absolute classic – their crumbly texture and buttery sweetness provide an amazing contrast to the strong and aromatic taste of the tea.
If you want something a little less sweet, then you can opt for oat cookies or even scones with a dollop of clotted cream – these provide a uniquely British flavor that goes perfectly with the tea.
7. Cheese
Cheese may be an unexpected pairing for Earl Grey tea, but it’s definitely a combination worth trying. The smooth and creamy texture of cheese complements the tea in a delicious way and adds an umami flavor that you won’t be able to resist.
Whether it’s crumbly cheddar, creamy blue cheese or nutty gruyere, adding a few slices of cheese to your cup can make for an unforgettable treat.
8. Pastries and Desserts
If you’re looking for something sweet to go with your tea, then there’s no better way than to enjoy a few pastries or desserts. A classic lemon tart or a light sponge cake is always a great choice, as the sweet notes contrast perfectly with the tea’s citrusy undertones.
You could even get creative and make a few Earl Grey cupcakes or macarons – the possibilities are truly endless.
9. Seafood
Yes, you read that right – seafood can be an amazing way to enjoy your cup of Earl Grey. Whether it’s a few slices of smoked salmon or a piece of grilled fish, the subtle flavor of the tea will bring out the best in these delicate dishes.
The combination is sure to be a hit at any dinner party and will leave your guests wondering what new flavors they’ve just tasted.
10. Spicy Foods
If you’re looking to add a bit of heat to your cup of Earl Grey, then spicy foods are a great way to do it. Earl Grey teas are typically made from black teas with bergamot oil added for flavor, making them delicate and floral in taste.
Eating something spicy alongside your cup of tea can really bring out the flavor and add a bit of zing to your palate. Curries, Szechuan dishes and other spicy foods are all great options to try.
11. Chocolates or Dark Sweets
Earl Grey tea pairs surprisingly well with chocolates and dark sweets – the sweet flavors contrast perfectly with the citrusy notes of bergamot. Whether it’s a bar of dark chocolate or some salted caramels, these treats will have you reaching for your cup again and again.
These rich and flavorful treats are perfect for an indulgent treat or even a sweet pick-me-up in the afternoon.
What Liquor Goes Well With Earl Grey Tea?
Believe it or not, Earl Grey tea can be used to create some amazing cocktails. Here are some of the best liquor choices to combine with your tea:
- Gin: The delicate juniper notes of gin pair perfectly with the citrusy undertones of Earl Grey. This classic combination is sure to please even the most discerning of palates.
- Vodka: Vodka is a versatile liquor that can be used to make a variety of drinks. The subtle sweetness of vodka and the lightness of Earl Grey make this combination the perfect drink for a summer evening.
- Rum: The sweet and spicy notes of rum are the perfect match for Earl Grey’s subtle flavor. Whether it’s a classic mojito or an exotic spiced rum concoction, you can be sure to impress your guests with this flavor combination.
- Whisky: Whisky and Earl Grey tea combine for a unique and flavorful experience. The smoky notes of whisky are a great contrast to the delicate flavor of bergamot, making for an unforgettable drink.
- White Wine: White wine and Earl Grey make for a surprisingly delicious combination. The herbal notes of white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, contrast perfectly with the flavor of bergamot in Earl Grey.
What Flavor Goes Well With Earl Grey Tea?
Earl Grey tea is a black tea that is flavored with oil extracted from the rind of the bergamot orange, which gives it a distinctive citrusy flavor. Here are some flavors that go well with Earl Grey tea:
- Lemon: Since Earl Grey already has a citrusy flavor, adding a slice of lemon can complement the tea’s bergamot notes.
- Honey: A spoonful of honey can balance the tea’s bitterness and add a touch of sweetness.
- Lavender: Earl Grey and lavender make a perfect pairing as both have floral notes.
- Vanilla: Adding a splash of vanilla syrup or a vanilla bean to your Earl Grey tea can give it a warm and comforting flavor.
- Cinnamon: The warm and spicy notes of cinnamon can complement the tea’s bold flavor.
- Bergamot: To enhance the tea’s natural flavor, you can add a few drops of bergamot essential oil.
- Milk: Adding a splash of milk can help balance the tea’s strong flavor and give it a creamier texture.
Conclusion
The best accompaniment to an exquisite cup of Earl Grey depends on your personal preferences. Whether you prefer something sweet or savory, there are plenty of options that can bring out the flavor notes in this classic British beverage.
Citrus fruits, stone fruits and berry fruits provide a natural sweetness that pairs nicely with the earthy tones of Earl Grey tea. Herbs like rosemary, mint or lavender add another dimension to its unique aroma while honey is perfect for those who want to enjoy their drink without any added sugar.
Shortbread cookies and other biscuits make great snacks when enjoying a hot cup of tea as does cheese, pastries and desserts for an indulgent treat. Seafood dishes also work well if you’re looking for something more substantial than just light snacks. Finally, chocolates or dark sweets will help satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.
So whether it’s breakfast time or late-night snack cravings – grab yourself some delicious treats and prepare yourself a comforting mug of Earl Gray Tea today!
