Jordanian tea, also called Bedouin tea, can well be considered the national drink of the country, as its consumption extends to every corner of its geography. And as in other Arab countries, it is much more than a simple drink, as it involves a ritual of preparation and hospitality. In this post we tell you what this tea is like and what differentiates it from others, so that you can better savor the cup that, for sure, they will offer you at some point during your trip.
Jordanian Tea or Bedouin Tea: Black and with Sage
The first thing you should know before tasting Jordanian tea is the variety it uses: although there may be differences depending on the region, the most widespread is black tea. That is, the one that uses the green tea plant (Camellia sinensis) but taken to very advanced levels of oxidation, which promotes that darkening and, in addition, a higher component of caffeine. This tea, by the way, is imported from other countries, as there is no local production. And this import is usually done from Turkey, a large producer in the region.
But what makes Bedouin tea different is not only the use of this variety of tea, but that the act of infusing the leaves is done in flavored water, since it has been previously boiled with sage leaves. This detail gives Bedouin tea a characteristic and differentiating aroma, in addition to a genuine, powerfully dark tone.
How Bedouin Tea is Served and Drunk
To prepare, serve and drink Bedouin tea, traditional utensils are still used, which provide greater solemnity. To prepare, a metal teapot is used, which can be decorated with incisions and other details to add a plus of beauty.
Jordanian tea is usually drunk in a glass container, often in a glass, which can take the shape of an inverted bell as in Turkey, or with straight walls. In many cases, the elevated part, where the glass is held, can be decorated with plant or geometric motifs. Cups can also be used, in some cases glass with a handle, and in others in some type of ceramic material, although in this way it is more difficult to perceive the color and consistency of the tea.
In addition, it is worth mentioning a detail that we cannot forget, however obvious it may seem: Bedouin tea is drunk hot, or rather warm. And this is so even if the ambient temperature is very warm, as is usual in the desert. This is done because hydration is more efficient if the drink is not taken cold, as the thermal impact is less on the body, promoting better assimilation.
A Gesture of Hospitality
Finally, it should be remembered that preparing, offering and drinking tea in company is not only a measure to quench thirst, but above all an act of hospitality and an invitation to spend a moment in company. For example, Jordanian tea is always present in the Bedouin camps of Wadi Rum, as a welcome greeting to this accommodation that already has a community character.
That is why refusing a tea is usually considered a gesture of bad taste or bad manners. Of course, you can enter an establishment and order one to enjoy at that moment. But if you are lucky enough to receive such an offer, accept it and enjoy it, especially if it is accompanied by some sweets, even if you do not speak the same language as the host, as it will be a good opportunity to look him in the eye and better understand the way of being of the Jordanians.
