Assam tea (Asam chai)

Assam is a type of Indian black tea made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis var. assamica. This tea is only produced in the north-eastern Indian state of Assam. In the past, Assam tea was mainly thought of as a mass-produced black tea, but artisanal-produced high-quality teas are becoming more prominent.

Assam tea is distinguished for its strong earthy and malty flavor, though the final character largely depends on the harvesting cycle. The first harvests result in lighter, fruit-forward teas, and the second harvest will usually provide full-bodied and malty brews.

The first harvest starts in March, while the second begins in May or June. The tea is also commonly used in breakfast blends such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast. Assam is one of the largest tea-producing areas in the world, and though the name is mainly used as a designation for black tea, white, oolong, and green tea styles are also produced.

Black Assam tea can be paired with breakfast dishes, salmon, poultry, red meat, casseroles, Mexican fare, cheese, and desserts. It can also be a good pairing with dark chocolate.