Tea is a part of daily life in India or has become so over time. Numerous varieties of tea emerge from its soil, making it one of the largest producers of tea. Tea production contributes about 4% to the national income and consumes more than 85% of its population. This data is surprising, as tea was introduced only a few decades ago during colonization by the British.
Different teas in India are given different names. While most of them are famous, two in particular have gained worldwide recognition. And yes! In that context you think of Assam tea and Darjeeling tea.
Tea aficionados may prefer both varieties equally, but many others debate which one is superior. Today, we will provide a detailed explanation of both to help you determine which one is right for you. Let’s start by knowing about both teas individually.
Assam Tea
Assam tea is a black tea indigenous to Assam, India. It is specifically produced from Camellia sinensis var. Asamika derives its name from the plant and the state in which it is grown in Assam. The tea has a deliciously strong, malty flavor and a bright dark brown color to compliment it. It may surprise you, but various ‘breakfast teas’ include Assam tea in their blend due to its full-bodied nature.
The state of Assam, though small in area, is the world’s largest tea-growing region by production. It is also the second largest commercial tea production area in the world. The tropical climate gives Assam tea its distinctive malty flavor, a quality that gives it worldwide fame. In addition to black tea with a unique flavor, the region produces green and white teas with recognizable characteristics.
Health benefits and side effects
Delicious taste and gorgeous color are not the only charm of Assam tea. It also has a lot of goodness and health benefits. All of them together boost the immune system and can keep your body disease-free. Some studies suggest that Assam tea may help promote brain health and have anti-cancer effects.
Along with this uphill comes a few downs. The high level of tannins in Assam tea can reduce the absorption of iron in your body. This can disrupt your digestive process. Also, frequent consumption of this tea can expose you to heavy metals like aluminum, which is not recommended by doctors. And not to mention, the caffeine content is a concern we’ve already discussed.
Darjeeling tea
Darjeeling tea officially got its name as recently as 2004. It is obtained from the plant of Camellia sinensis var. sinensis and produced in the districts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, West Bengal, India. Premium Darjeeling teas are typically described as fruity, floral flavors and aromas, with woody notes and extra astringency. Originating from a small district, this black tea is harvested at intervals of four flushes.
The tea obtained from each flush has a distinct and varied taste. The best known comes from the second flush, a unique sweet, fruity aroma and flavor known as muscatel. The tropical temperate climate of the region is responsible for giving tea all these characteristics. The region mainly produces a variety of black teas, with the exceptions of oolong, white and green.
Health benefits and side effects
Darjeeling tea is a wealth of health benefits. It can help you stay cancer-free and boost cardiovascular health by providing your body with the antioxidants it needs. It also relieves you from stress, promotes weight loss, gives you flawless skin and most importantly protects your mental health. Apart from all this, it also strengthens your bones, hair and immune system.
Char-flush tea has no significant side effects but consuming it in large quantities can be harmful. This is due to the caffeine content in Darjeeling tea which can prove harmful if consumed in excess.
Difference between Darjeeling Tea and Assam Tea
There are two main differences responsible for producing the two different tasting teas. What follows them is the resulting difference in taste, color and flavor.
Process
Both Darjeeling and Assam tea are processed very differently. While processing Assam tea, complete oxidation takes place to give rise to black tea. But when it comes to Darjeeling tea, it is not allowed to oxidize completely. Instead, it is a semi-oxidized version of black tea.
Climate and developing regions
Darjeeling tea is grown in the highlands in the foothills of the Himalayas. In contrast, Assam tea is grown in the lowlands. This plays a very important role in both the taste and texture of the tea. The climate for growing Darjeeling tea is cooler, while Assam tea grows in clayey, rich soils.
Similarities between Assam tea and Darjeeling tea
Both Assam and Darjeeling are hilly regions and the teas from there have some similarities. The best known of these, both are black teas. And they both contain caffeine, albeit in different amounts. Some people even say that there is no difference in the taste of Darjeeling and Assam tea.
You are the best judge of what you like, so this detailed discussion will probably help you decide better. And if you’re still confused about which combination is better, try them both yourself. The given recipes will also help you to prepare quickly. Also, you don’t have to stick to any one of them. So, do as you wish and let us know which one you like best.