With South African’s enjoying and photographing their coffees and lattes at every turn, it’s refreshing to know that there are 2 new drinks that are fast becoming popular alternatives for our coffee-loving nation. In this article, we explore how tea and coconut water have become the latest ‘go to’ drinks on everyone’s lips.

 

Tea, please!

Tea has been around for centuries and is enjoyed in countries all around the world. Tea drinking is not new to South Africans, however, the art of brewing a cup of tea has become fashionable once more. Similar to the rise in making craft beers in South Africa, tea making that incorporates using tea leaves to brew the perfect cuppa is fast becoming the ideal way to socialise with friends. It lends itself to a friendly chat in the tearoom or kitchen, a bit of time away from the desk or chaos of life, and a moment to relax without rushing to your next task. Tea can’t be rushed and it’s the process of making the tea that has become just as appealing as the drink itself. To add to this sensual process, tea has many health benefits like natural antioxidants, weight-loss benefits and detoxing qualities.

If you’ve never made tea using tea leaves, you will need to purchase a teapot and tea strainer.  Take a look at this short video clip on how to brew the perfect cup of tea with loose tea leaves.

And don’t stop experimenting with your teas. Learning about different leaves, variable brewing times and blending teas can be a great deal of fun. You can also use loose leaf tea to brew your own iced tea. It’s a great drink option for everyone to enjoy, whatever the season or temperature.

Coconut water is a healthy tonic

Coconut water is another drink that has been around for years (particularly in countries where coconuts are grown like in India and Sri Lanka) and yet it has only recently become very popular in South Africa (and globally). Coconut water is the clear water that is found inside the coconut. It is often confused with coconut milk which is made from the crushed white coconut flesh that is typically high in fat. Coconut water, on the other hand, is clear and low in fat. Popular for its many vitamins and nutrients (Vitamin B, electrolytes, potassium, magnesium and sodium to name a few), it also contains lauric acid which helps to boost your immune system. It contains no added sugar or artificial flavourings and is 100% pure in composition. Be careful to read labels though as there may be the odd drink that has added sugar. Pure coconut water certainly doesn’t need any flavourings or added sugar.

In South Africa, the rise in the CrossFit industry has led to an increase in the demand for coconut water. South Africa is the fastest growing market in CrossFit and CrossFitters love a good coconut water. Health practitioners advise against using coconut water for dieting purposes due to lack of research in this area, however if you love the flavour of coconut, if you love the benefits of the drink and you have the financial means (it’s quite pricey at around R19,95 for 330ml) then we say go for it!

Whether you’re enjoying an ice-cold coconut water or a hot cup of freshly brewed tea, bottoms up everyone and enjoy! Drop us a line if you have any questions for our hospitality management students or if you would like to know more about general hospitality programmes on offer at IHS.

(Source and images: www.belfastvibe.com; http://www.iol.co.za/dailynews/lifestyle/coconut-water-is-the-new-trend-in-health-drinks-1894388; http://www.eatout.co.za/article/top-trend-tea/)