Rooibos, an indigenous herbal tea from South Africa, is known worldwide for its health benefits. But it is seldom used in wellness tea blends.
We believe that Rooibos tea’s array of health benefits and versatile taste make it perfect for blending, which enables consumers to maximize the health benefits and flavor they get from each cup.
The South African Rooibos Council recently collaborated with tea sommelier Jessica Bonin to identify ten Rooibos flavor pairings.
1. Rooibos and Chamomile
Like Rooibos, chamomile is known for aiding sleep quality, digestion, and possible protection from some diseases. Why not combine these two lovely herbal teas.
“Rooibos & Chamomile has a woody, creamy and peachy taste with honey-floral undertones, which complements anything fruity or sweet, such as scones or shortbread, while the earthy flavor of Green Rooibos complements savory sandwiches and meat dishes, such as roast lamb or beef,” says Benin
2. Rooibos and Ginger
Ginger, which contains gingerol, has a range of powerful medicinal properties. It can help treat nausea, aid weight loss, and lower blood sugar. Rooibos and ginger undoubtedly make for a powerful immune-boosting combo!
According to Benin, this combo has a mellow and tangy mouthfeel – perfect for adding balance when enjoyed with curry or spicy foods.
3. Rooibos and Vanilla
One of the most popular Rooibos flavor combos, Vanilla and Rooibos pairs well with sweeter treats, says Benin. Vanilla has a lovely calming effect, which is enhanced by caffeine-free Rooibos’ low tannins.
4. Rooibos and Cinnamon
“The velvety, dusty sweetness of Rooibos & Cinnamon makes it ideal at breakfast time with croissants or scones”, says Benin. Cinnamon has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal products. Rooibos & Cinnamon combos are rich in antioxidants.
5. Rooibos and Buchu
Like Rooibos, Buchu is an indigenous herb. Used for centuries by indigenous groups for its health benefits – especially for urinary tract ailments. Buchu and Rooibos combos have a “mildy astringent taste”, says Benin, which can be matched with fruit and meat dishes.
6. Rooibos and Mint
Perfect for digestive health, Rooibos and Mint combos are also palate cleansers. Benin suggests drinking this combo after heavy and rich meals, or in-between courses.
7. Rooibos Masala Chai
Masala Chai spiced tea is highly popular, known for calming effects, anti-oxidants, and gut-health promoting properties. “The bold flavours and rich aroma of Rooibos Chai make it ideal with anything chocolaty – think dark chocolate, chocolate mousse, chocolate fondant and even works well in meat marinades. It’s also delicious with Brie spread on a toasted baguette,” Benin says.
8. Rooibos and Lemon
Lemon is known to boost overall health. A good source of vitamin C, lemon tea’s health benefits can be boosted with antioxidant-rich Rooibos. Benin suggests pairing Lemon and Rooibos with honey and ginger.
9. Rooibos and Berry
Rooibos easily transitions into fruit-tea terrain when combined with berries, which creates a “luscious syrupy and juicy taste,” according to Benin. A great flavor combo for iced teas and alcoholic beverages!
10. Rooibos and Rosehip
Rosehip is high in vitamin C and enjoyed as a wellness drink all around the world. “The refreshing taste of Rooibos and Rosehip makes it an ideal afternoon refresher with salads and savory snacks,” says Benin.
To learn more about Rooibos tea and how we can help you incorporate this amazing product in your catalog, feel free to contact us at info@rooibostea.co.za.
We offer a range of bulk Rooibos, Rosehip, and Honeybush products and work hand-in-hand with our clients to ensure that we meet their specifications.
With world-class laboratory and production facilities, we have the capacity to refine and deliver bulk products to meet your needs and to develop new innovative products.
Our sales and marketing function can assist with high-quality digital assets and marketing strategies to introduce Rooibos to new markets around the world.
For more information, browse our website.