Beverage Ingredient | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Keto Low Calorie

Tea Leave

Camellia sinensis Allergen-Free
Tea Leave

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Theaceae
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Camellia sinensis plant

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

Processed leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant, used to make the beverage tea.

Sensory Profile

TasteBitter, Astringent, Umami, Grassy, Floral, Malty
TextureThin, Dry (infused: Smooth, Light)
AromaEarthy, Floral, Grassy, Fruity, Malty, Smoky
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 240g (8 fl oz) brewed
Calories1 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.2 g
Total Carbohydrate0.3 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium2 mg
Iron0.02 mg
Potassium37 mg

Chef’s Secret

Spent tea leaves can be used in marinades for meats (especially black tea for red meats) or infused into cooking liquids for unique flavor profiles.

Substitutions

Best Match

Herbal Infusion (e.g., Peppermint, Chamomile)

1:1

Caffeine-free alternative for hot beverages, offers diverse flavors.

Coffee

1:1

For a stimulating hot beverage, but with a different flavor profile and higher caffeine.

Chicory Root Tea

1:1

Roasted flavor, often used as a coffee substitute, no caffeine.

Green Rooibos

1:1

Similar grassy notes to some green teas, caffeine-free, rich in antioxidants.

Buying Guide

Consider origin, processing method (black, green, oolong), and whole leaf vs. broken for flavor intensity.

Flavor Pairings

Milk lemon honey various pastries savory dishes depending on tea type.