22 Delicious Tea and Food Pairings You Didn’t Know You Needed (Don’t Miss #11!)
May 12, 2025 | by Roz L
Tea lovers, get ready to elevate your sipping experience with some scrumptious food pairings that will tantalize your taste buds!
From classic combinations to unexpected matches, these pairings offer a delightful journey through flavors that will surprise and delight.
Not only can the right food enhance the taste of your tea, but tea can also elevate your meals, making every cup and bite a memorable experience.
Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply enjoying a cup during a quiet afternoon, these twenty-two pairings are sure to inspire your culinary creativity!
1. Earl Grey with Lemon Scones
Earl Grey tea, renowned for its aromatic bergamot flavor, pairs wonderfully with lemon scones. The zesty lemon notes in the scones complement the floral undertones of the tea, creating a delightful balance.
Ingredients for Lemon Scones:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Optional: powdered sugar for dusting.
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Stir in the cream, lemon zest, and juice until a dough forms.
5. Roll out and cut into scones.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
7. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Pair your tea and scones with a dollop of clotted cream for an extra treat!
2. Green Tea with Sushi
Green tea’s fresh and grassy notes make it the perfect companion for sushi. Whether it’s a delicate piece of nigiri or a crunchy roll, the lightness of the tea cleanses the palate and enhances the flavors of the fish.
Types of Sushi to Try:
– Salmon Nigiri
– California Roll
– Spicy Tuna Roll
– Vegetable rolls
When pairing, opt for a high-quality, ceremonial-grade green tea for the best experience. This variety typically has a sweeter taste with fewer bitter notes, making it an excellent match for sushi.
Pro Tip: For a classy touch, serve matcha with sashimi to contrast the flavors and colors beautifully.
Quick serving ideas: Add some pickled ginger and wasabi on the side, and don’t forget a small dish of soy sauce for dipping. Enjoy your meal!
3. Chai with Spiced Cookies
Chai, with its warming spices like cinnamon and ginger, makes for a perfect pairing with spiced cookies. The sweetness and warmth of the cookies complement the bold flavors of the tea, creating a cozy experience.
Cookie Recipe:
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 cups flour
– 2 teaspoons cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cloves
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– A pinch of salt.
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg.
4. In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and flatten slightly.
7. Bake for around 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden.
8. Let cool and serve with chai!
For an extra twist, drizzle your cookies with a glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of chai for a sweet finish.
4. Hibiscus Tea with Tropical Fruit Salad
The tart and floral notes of hibiscus tea pair beautifully with a vibrant tropical fruit salad. This tea brings out the sweetness of fruits like mango, pineapple, and kiwi, while adding a refreshing zing.
Fruit Salad Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced mango
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 1 cup diced kiwi
– 1 cup strawberries, halved
– Juice of 1 lime
– Mint leaves for garnish.
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine all the diced fruits.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and gently toss to combine.
3. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
4. Serve alongside a chilled glass of hibiscus tea for a refreshing experience.
Fun Tip: Infuse the hibiscus tea with a bit of ginger or a splash of coconut milk for a creamier texture and more flavor.
5. Oolong Tea with Cheese Platter
Oolong tea, known for its complexity, pairs wonderfully with a variety of cheeses. Its rich, floral notes enhance the creaminess of the cheese, making for a sophisticated pairing experience.
Cheeses to Include:
– Aged cheddar
– Brie
– Goat cheese
– Blue cheese
– Gruyère
Serving Suggestions:
1. Create a cheese platter with an assortment of cheeses, fresh fruits, and nuts.
2. Brew oolong tea to the recommended temperature of around 190°F (88°C) for optimal flavor.
3. Allow your guests to explore the pairing of different cheeses with the oolong for a unique tasting adventure.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of honey or a fruit preserve on the side for even more flavor complexity!
6. Peppermint Tea with Dark Chocolate
The refreshing, cool notes of peppermint tea make for an indulgent pairing with rich dark chocolate. The combination is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delightful experience for the senses.
Chocolate Choices:
– Dark chocolate with sea salt
– Mint chocolate bars
– Chocolate truffles
Perfect Pairing Steps:
1. Brew the peppermint tea at around 200°F (93°C).
2. Allow it to steep for about 5 minutes for full flavor.
3. Serve with a selection of dark chocolates for a sophisticated dessert treat.
Fun Fact: Peppermint can aid digestion, making this combination a great after-dinner pairing!
7. White Tea with Almond Cookies
The delicate, subtle flavors of white tea pair perfectly with sweet almond cookies. This pairing highlights the gentle notes of the tea while enhancing the nutty sweetness of the cookies.
Almond Cookie Recipe:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– A pinch of salt.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream the butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually add almond flour and salt.
5. Roll into balls and flatten slightly before baking for about 10-12 minutes.
6. Let cool, then serve with white tea.
Top your cookies with slivered almonds for a lovely presentation.
8. Jasmine Tea with Lychee Sorbet
Jasmine tea’s aromatic floral notes wonderfully complement the sweet, exotic flavor of lychee sorbet. This pairing is a delightful way to refresh your palate and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite.
Sorbet Recipe:
– 2 cups lychee fruit (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
Instructions:
1. Blend lychee fruit, sugar, water, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Pour into a container and freeze for 3-4 hours, stirring every hour until it’s fluffy.
3. Serve with jasmine tea brewed at 190°F (88°C).
Serving Idea: Garnish with fresh mint for a refreshing touch!
9. Rooibos with Apple Pie
The naturally sweet and earthy notes of rooibos tea make it a delightful match for a warm apple pie. The richness of the pie complements the smoothness of the tea, creating a comforting experience.
Apple Pie Recipe:
– 2 cups sliced apples
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pie crust (store-bought or homemade).
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
3. Fill pie crust with the apple mixture.
4. Cover with a second crust, seal edges, and cut slits on top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with rooibos tea.
For an extra touch, add vanilla ice cream on top!
10. Matcha with Panna Cotta
The vibrancy of matcha tea creates a striking contrast with the creamy texture of panna cotta. This pairing not only looks beautiful but also brings together earthy and sweet flavors in a delightful way.
Panna Cotta Recipe:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon gelatin
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder (for topping).
Instructions:
1. Heat the cream and sugar until dissolved.
2. Mix in the gelatin and vanilla.
3. Pour into molds and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
4. To serve, dust with matcha powder.
5. Enjoy next to a cup of freshly whisked matcha tea.
Idea: Top with fresh berries to add a pop of color and flavor!
11. (Don’t Miss This!) Black Tea with Chocolate Cake
There’s nothing quite like the classic pairing of robust black tea and rich chocolate cake. The deep flavors of the tea cut through the sweetness of the cake, creating a balanced and indulgent treat.
Chocolate Cake Recipe:
– 1 3/4 cups flour
– 3/4 cup cocoa powder
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients together.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla and mix until smooth.
4. Gradually stir in boiling water.
5. Pour into greased pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
6. Let cool and serve with a strong cup of black tea, preferably brewed at 200°F (93°C).
For a delicious twist, add a layer of raspberry jam between cake layers for a surprising burst of flavor!
12. Chamomile with Honey Cake
The gentle and calming notes of chamomile tea beautifully complement the sweetness of honey cake. This pairing creates a soothing experience, perfect for winding down at the end of the day.
Honey Cake Recipe:
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup honey
– 3 eggs
– 1 cup flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Beat butter and honey until creamy.
3. Add eggs one at a time.
4. In a separate bowl, mix dry ingredients and gradually add them to the wet mixture.
5. Pour into a greased pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden.
6. Serve with a hot cup of chamomile tea for a relaxing treat.
Drizzle additional honey on top of the cake before serving for extra sweetness!
13. Iced Tea with Barbecue Ribs
The smoky and savory flavors of barbecue ribs pair astonishingly well with the refreshing taste of iced tea. Whether you prefer sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea can cut through the richness of the meat, creating a satisfying balance.
Barbecue Ribs Recipe:
– 2 racks of ribs
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Bake covered for 2-3 hours until tender.
4. Brush with barbecue sauce and grill or broil for an additional 15 minutes.
5. Serve with a chilled glass of iced tea for a delightful meal!
Fun Variation: Try pairing with a fruity iced tea, like peach, for a unique twist.
14. Cucumber Tea Sandwiches with Green Tea
Light and refreshing cucumber tea sandwiches pair perfectly with green tea. The crispness of the cucumbers complements the grassy notes of the tea, making for an elegant afternoon snack.
Sandwich Ingredients:
– 8 slices of white bread
– 1 cup cream cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon dill
– 1 cucumber, thinly sliced.
Instructions:
1. Mix cream cheese with dill.
2. Spread on two slices of bread.
3. Layer cucumber slices and top with another slice of bread.
4. Cut crusts off and slice into quarters.
5. Serve with freshly brewed green tea for a delightful experience!
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on the cucumbers for an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for a tea party!
15. Masala Chai with Spiced Nuts
The warmth of masala chai makes it a fantastic pairing with spiced nuts. The crunchy texture and flavors of the nuts enhance the rich spices in the chai, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Spiced Nuts Recipe:
– 2 cups mixed nuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional).
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss nuts with oil, curry powder, salt, and cayenne.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve warm with a hot cup of masala chai.
Use different nuts for varied flavors, like cashews, almonds, or even pecans!
16. Berry Tea with Cheesecake
The fruity notes of berry tea are a perfect match for creamy cheesecake. Whether you prefer raspberry, blueberry, or strawberry cheesecake, this pairing enhances the dessert experience.
Cheesecake Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cream cheese
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 eggs
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs for crust.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into the bottom of a springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, adding eggs one at a time.
4. Pour over crust and bake for 50-60 minutes.
5. Let cool and serve with a cup of berry tea.
Top with fresh berries to elevate your cheesecake even more!
17. Ginger Tea with Carrot Cake
The spiciness of ginger tea pairs beautifully with the moist sweetness of carrot cake. This pairing is not only comforting but also brings together the warmth of spices in a delightful way.
Carrot Cake Recipe:
– 2 cups grated carrot
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup flour
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon baking powder.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
3. Pour into a greased pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
4. Serve warm with ginger tea for a flavorful experience.
For added indulgence, cream cheese frosting is a perfect complement!
18. Tulsi Tea with Quinoa Salad
Tulsi tea, known for its herbal goodness, pairs surprisingly well with a light quinoa salad. The earthy notes of the tea bring out the freshness in the salad, creating a wholesome and healthy dining experience.
Quinoa Salad Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine all salad ingredients.
2. Toss gently and serve cold with a warm cup of tulsi tea for an energizing dish.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an extra burst of flavor!
19. English Breakfast with Full English Breakfast
Nothing beats a classic English breakfast paired with a robust cup of English Breakfast tea. The hearty flavors of the meal fit perfectly with the strong, malty tea, making for a satisfying start to your day.
Full English Breakfast Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 2 sausages
– 2 slices of bacon
– Baked beans
– Grilled tomatoes
– Toast.
Instructions:
1. Fry the sausages, bacon, and eggs in a pan.
2. In a separate pot, heat the baked beans.
3. Grill the tomatoes until slightly charred.
4. Serve everything on a plate with toast and a steaming cup of English Breakfast tea.
Pro Tip: A splash of milk in your tea can enhance the flavors and create a creamy texture!
20. Lemon Tea with Oatmeal Cookies
The tangy notes of lemon tea pair nicely with the sweet and chewy oatmeal cookies. This combination is simple yet delightful, bringing together warmth and sweetness in every bite.
Oatmeal Cookie Ingredients:
– 1 cup oats
– 1/2 cup flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream butter and sugar until light.
3. Beat in the egg and add the oats, flour, and raisins.
4. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
6. Enjoy warm with lemon tea.
Sprinkle a bit of lemon zest on the cookies for a hint of citrus!
21. Berry Infused Iced Tea with Lemon Bars
Berry-infused iced tea pairs exquisitely with tangy lemon bars, creating a refreshing dessert combo. The sweet and tart balance is perfect for summer gatherings or a sunny afternoon.
Lemon Bar Recipe:
– 1 cup flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup butter
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix flour, powdered sugar, and butter for the crust.
3. Press into a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
4. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and baking powder, pour over the crust.
5. Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
6. Cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving with berry-infused iced tea.
Use a mix of berries for your iced tea for added flavor and color!
22. Turmeric Tea with Coconut Curry
Finally, turmeric tea’s earthy, spicy notes pair excellently with creamy coconut curry. This combination offers a warm, soothing meal that also carries fantastic health benefits.
Coconut Curry Recipe:
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, etc.)
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– Salt to taste.
Instructions:
1. In a pot, heat coconut milk and add vegetables.
2. Stir in curry powder and salt.
3. Simmer until vegetables are tender.
4. Serve warm with a cup of turmeric tea.
Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors and enjoy this aromatic dish!
Conclusion
These twenty-two tea and food pairings are just the beginning of a delicious adventure waiting for you!
Whether you’re a seasoned tea drinker or a curious newcomer, trying these combinations can open up a world of flavors that enhance both your meals and beverages.
So, gather your favorite teas and experiment with these pairings at home. Your taste buds will thank you!
