Traditionally, Spain has always been a coffee-drinking country; it's probably the most frequently requested beverage in restaurants and hotels. However, in recent years, the consumption of other alternatives, such as teas and infusions, has increased. In this post, we'll discuss the different types of infusions and teas used in the hospitality industry – Tétique.

These alternatives have now become increasingly common on cafe menus, making it necessary to modernize their offerings. In this regard, we must emphasize the types of infusions that would once have been unthinkable to include in bars or restaurants.

Want to know which infusions you should include in your hospitality business? Read on to learn about the most popular ones.

The search for other alternatives to coffee

Tea was introduced to Spain in the 18th century, imported from France and Great Britain. From that moment on, Spaniards no longer just drank hot chocolate and coffee; tea and infusions became fashionable. It was in the 19th century that different types of infusions and teas began to emerge in the hospitality and home settings. Aristocrats traditionally drank afternoon tea in silver tea sets from Great Britain and France.

Drinking tea was generally a sign of distinction in society, but after the Civil War, it faded into the background. Over the years, the custom of having a cup of tea in the middle of the afternoon was revived, and establishments serving this beverage began to emerge. Today, it enjoys great influence and is commonly found in bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Part of the significant influence of tea and infusions in Spain is due to the proliferation of establishments from other cultures, such as Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and Lebanese, introducing a wide variety of infusions. The curiosity about this beverage led many to become regular drinkers.

Different types of infusions and teas in the hospitality industry

Black tea

Black tea is one of the different types of infusions and teas used in the hospitality industry. It has a strong, intense flavor that doesn't fade over time. Its characteristic black color as a final product is due to the oxidation of its leaves. It is also responsible for its strong aroma and its higher caffeine levels than other teas.

Some of the properties of black tea are:

• It minimizes the risk of heart attacks and helps blood vessels dilate and contract.
• It reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease because it slows the formation of atheromatous plaques.
• It promotes concentration and mental alertness, aids short-term memory, speeds up the brain's processing of information, and promotes learning.
• It keeps hair healthy, prevents cavities thanks to its fluoride content, etc.

At our store, we offer a wide range of black tea options. We're proud to present a carefully curated selection of varieties, each with its own unique and captivating flavor profile.

From the classic English Breakfast black tea , with its robust body and malty notes, to the sophisticated Darjeeling black tea , with its floral delicacy of bergamot , we have something for every black tea lover.

If you're looking for a more adventurous experience, we invite you to try our flavored black teas. From the exotic spiced Chai black tea to the delicious Earl Grey with its hint of bergamot, every sip will transport you on a journey of captivating flavors.

White tea

White tea was considered in China to be a beverage with great powers of immortality and eternal youth. However, it remains a quality tea, with great flavor and beneficial properties. Its production consists of selecting the youngest and most tender shoots, which are harvested before oxidation. Among the benefits of white tea are:

• Rich in antioxidants.
• Combats aging.
• Helps fight free radicals and cellular aging.
• Reduces the risks of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
• Improves liver health, against liver diseases.
• It has slimming power.
• Take care of your hair and skin.

In our shop, you'll find a carefully curated selection of white tea. From the delicate Pai Mu Tan White Tea to the refreshing Ginger and Lemon White Tea , each cup will provide you with a smooth and sophisticated experience.

Immerse yourself in the subtlety of white tea and enjoy its unique flavor. Come and discover the elegance of our selected varieties.

Green tea

In terms of health benefits, green tea leads the way among the various types of infusions and teas in the hospitality industry. It doesn't undergo a deep oxidation process; the drying and fermentation process are carried out after harvesting. Among the benefits of green tea are:

• It is low in caffeine, so it will not affect sleep or cause nervousness.
• It contains a large amount of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins A, C and E.
• Reduces the risk of cancer and blood glucose levels.
• There are certain studies that indicate that it reduces stress, stimulates the immune system, relieves allergies, etc.

Discover our incredible variety of green tea.

In our shop, you'll find a wide selection of green tea. From classic Sencha Green Tea to exotic jasmine green tea , each cup is a unique taste experience.

Red tea

Also known as Pu Erh tea , its discovery was accidental in an attempt to extend the shelf life of green tea. It is a post-fermented tea, matured in cellars for a long period of time. It has a distinctive flavor and aroma, as well as its distinctive red color. The double fermentation this tea undergoes leads to several health-promoting properties. The benefits of red tea are as follows:

• Strengthens the immune system.
• It activates the metabolism, especially during heavy meals.
• Prevents cavities due to its fluoride content.
• It reduces LDL cholesterol levels, has diuretic properties, helps with weight loss, etc.

Chamomile

It's a plant native to Europe and Asia, and since ancient times it's been said to possess numerous healing properties due to the number of problems it can cure. Among them, chamomile : it treats digestive disorders, colic, indigestion, gastritis, and diarrhea. It's also said to have great properties for the skin and for promoting sleep.

Linden

Linden is one of the various types of infusions and teas used in hospitality and is widely beneficial in natural medicine. It is often drunk when suffering from insomnia or nervousness. But it doesn't just relieve these problems; it is also a diuretic, contains a high antioxidant content, and fights free radicals.

Valerian

Valerian is a good infusion that helps you sleep if you suffer from insomnia, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep. It's native to Europe and parts of Asia, cultivated in humid areas, and has become so widespread that it's found in the Netherlands, Belgium, Japan, Colombia, and other Andean regions such as Argentina and Chile.

Rosemary

Rosemary is very common in the Iberian Peninsula. It has been used since ancient times as part of traditional medicine, possessing significant properties that have historically been attributed to it. However, the greatest interest in this infusion is due to its potent antioxidant effect.

Mint or Pennyroyal

Mint, or pennyroyal, is a plant that grows to a height of 30 to 40 centimeters. In addition to its preparation as infusions, it is also used in the cuisine of various countries. Mint's properties include:

• Relieves stomach pain.
• Minimizes flu symptoms.
• It has healing properties.
• Combats some vaginal infections and menstrual pain.
• Fights hangovers.

Green anise

This is another of the different types of infusions and teas in the hospitality industry that can be included on bar or cafe menus. It's an excellent stomach tonic, aids digestion, and provides fresh breath.

How to properly prepare a tea or infusion

Before preparing different types of infusions and teas in the hospitality industry , it is necessary to take into account the following tips:

• The correct amount of product should be used for one cup, as indicated in the instructions. Generally, you should add a small, heaping tablespoon per cup. If you're using a teapot, the amount should be proportional to the volume of water used.
• It is recommended to use still mineral water, but tap water can be used as long as it doesn't contain too much chlorine or is contaminated. Ideally, use filtered tap water.

Now, to prepare an infusion, the most common steps are:

1. Heat the water until it reaches boiling point.
2. Add the water to a container or kettle and then the product.
3. Cover the infusion.
4. Let it rest for 8 to 2 minutes.
5. Remove the filter/infuser with the plants or strain it.
6. It's recommended not to sweeten the drink. However, if you prefer, use natural sweetener, honey, or brown sugar .

They're all worth trying. So, we suggest you purchase the Tétique Organic Tea Starter Packs . That way, you can sample them all.