What Is Rooibos Tea?
Rooibos tea (Aspalathus linearis) is an herbal tea made from the thin branches of the red bush plant, which grows only in South Africa’s Cederberg region. Its name means “red bush” in Afrikaans.
Fermenting and drying its leaves gives the tea a reddish color and a naturally sweet, mellow aroma. Since it is not made from the true tea plant, it contains no caffeine and is low in tannins.
Rooibos Tea Nutrition Facts
Unsweetened brewed rooibos tea provides no energy; it contains no caffeine and is low in tannins. It contains distinctive plant compounds; its value lies in being a caffeine-free, mild drink.
What Are the Benefits of Rooibos Tea?
Because it is caffeine-free and low in tannins, rooibos can be considered a light drink to enjoy at any time of day.
This is general information; rooibos tea is a beverage, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Rooibos Tea
Good rooibos should be reddish-brown, dry, and have a fresh, mildly sweet aroma. Pale, damp, or weakly scented products have lost their freshness. Green (unfermented) rooibos is also available.
- The color should be reddish-brown, and the leaves should be dry.
- It should have a fresh, mildly sweet aroma.
- A pale color and weak aroma are undesirable.
How to Store Rooibos Tea
Store rooibos tea in a sealed container in a cool, dry place; protect it from moisture and light, which diminish its aroma. Keep it separate from strongly scented spices to preserve its flavor.
How to Use Rooibos Tea in the Kitchen
Rooibos is brewed hot and served as tea; it is also used in rooibos lattes, iced tea, and spiced blends. It can also flavor desserts and syrups, and serve as a mild base flavor in meat marinades.
How Do You Brew Rooibos?
Add one 5 ml measure of rooibos to boiling water and steep for 5–7 minutes. Unlike black tea, it does not turn bitter when steeped for a long time, so it can be left to steep longer. It can also be served with milk or lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rooibos real tea?
No. It is an herbal tea made from a separate shrub, not the true tea plant (Camellia sinensis). That is why it contains no caffeine.
Why can rooibos steep for a long time?
It is low in tannins and does not turn bitter like black tea, so it can be steeped longer to develop a deeper color and flavor.
Can you drink rooibos with milk?
Yes. Its naturally mild sweetness pairs well with milk, and it is also popular as a “rooibos latte.”