Tea in West Asia and North Africa

Through the silk-road, tea was used to be transported from China to West Asia. The countries located in West Asia are mostly Islamic country. Climate is dry through the year, thus tea plays important role of their life. Early Showa era, Japanese tea was also exported to West Asia. However today, most of the tea consumed is imported from India and Sri Lanka. Chai in Chai-hane Chai-hane is originally a place for the travelers to rest and have tea (Chai). People who travel desert spend a moment with other, and enjoy tea together. Small tea cups are placed on the tray and served. Mint tea in Morocco Morocco was used to be a destination for the Japanese tea exports. However, now black tea has replaced green tea, and Morocco became a black tea drinking nation. People in Morocco drink mint tea daily. To make mint tea, put sugar in the grass, and place fresh mint leaves, and then pour tea into the grass. Combination of mint, tea, and sugar makes wonderful refreshment.

(Satoru Matsushita)