Russian Caravan tea is a black tea blend with a rich earthy and smokey flavor. This tea originated from the China to Russia trade route in the 18th Century. Learn how to custom blend it yourself to enjoy at home.
One advantage of customizing your own tea blend, as opposed to buying it premade, is that you are in control of the flavor. Just like a recipe you can add or remove different ingredients for your specific taste.
If you want to be a master at blending your own tea it’s always good to try each tea separately first. Get a good understanding of how each teas aroma and flavor are before mixing it with another flavor. Know that, sometimes it takes a few tries to get the flavor just right.
What is Russian Caravan Tea?
Russia Caravan tea is actually a blend of two Chinese teas that were originally for the Russian market. The tea is thought to have originated along the China to Russia trade route in the 18th Century. Although the types of teas used back then might have been different from today. The teas that are commonly blended today are Keemun and Lapsang Souchong. Keemun is a very smooth tasting tea with a slightly woody taste. Lapsang Souchong has a very strong smokey flavor and aroma like a campfire. The two teas mix well together to create a rich earthy and smokey taste.
How to Blend
Typically I would say to add equal parts of Keemun and Lapsang Souchong. However, since Lapsang Souchong has such a strong flavor by its own I would add less. So, start with a ratio of 1:3, 1 part Lapsang Souchong to 3 parts Keemun. Add more Lapsang Souchong later, if desired. Note that it might take a few tries to get the flavor just right.
Once you get your desired flavor you may blend the tea in large batches and store the blend in a tea canister.
Other variations of Russian Caravan tea include Yunnan black tea instead of Keemun for an even smoother taste. Assam might be a good tea to add as well.
How to Prepare
Loose leaf tea requires a tea infuser and teapot. Place one heaping teaspoon of tea leaves in an infuser. Heat boiling water and steep the tea for 3 minutes. Enjoy the tea on its own or add sweeter such as sugar or honey.
Another way to enjoy Russian Caravan Tea is by the zavarka method and a Samovar, a link to that is provided here.