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Assam, a state in Northeast India, is renowned for its tea production, with its tea gardens contributing to the majority of India's tea exports. One such lesser-known but unique tea from Assam is Singpho Phalap or Falap, a dark tea made by the Singpho tribe. Singpho Phalap has an intriguing history and a distinct flavor profile that makes it a must-try for tea enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will explore the origins, production, and health benefits of Singpho Phalap, along with its cultural significance.
The story of Assam tea begins long before it was discovered by the British. For hundreds of years, the native Singpho people of Assam had been harvesting tea from tall trees in the jungles of Northeastern India, using it to brew medicinal and healing concoctions. However, it wasn't until the early 19th century that tea gained wider recognition, thanks to the efforts of a few key individuals.
Learn more about the humble beginnings of Assam tea, from its use as a healing brew by the native Singpho people to the establishment of British-owned plantations, and the contributions of Assam's first freedom movement martyr, Maniram Dewan.
Singpho Phalap tea is a type of dark tea that is made by fermenting the tea leaves for a longer duration than regular tea. The tea leaves are first withered and then steamed before being packed into a bamboo cylinder and left to ferment for several months. During the fermentation process, the tea leaves turn dark brown and develop a unique flavor profile that is quite different from regular Assam tea.
Singpho Phalap tea has a smoky and earthy flavor profile with notes of honey and caramel. The tea has a sweet aftertaste and a distinct aroma that is reminiscent of the forest. Singpho Phalap tea is known for its health benefits and is believed to aid digestion, boost metabolism, and promote overall well-being.
The Singpho tribe is one of the indigenous communities in Assam and is believed to have migrated from Myanmar (formerly Burma) several centuries ago. The Singpho people have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their unique traditions, customs, and cuisine. Tea is an integral part of the Singpho culture, and Singpho Phalap tea holds a special place in their hearts.
The Singpho people have been producing Singpho Phalap tea for generations, and the tea-making process is a closely guarded family secret. The tea is usually prepared during the winter months when the weather is dry and cool, and the tea leaves ferment naturally. The Singpho people believe that the natural fermentation process adds to the tea's unique flavor and health benefits.
Singpho Phalap tea is also an important part of the Singpho community's social fabric. The tea is often served during social gatherings, festivals, and ceremonies and is considered a symbol of hospitality and warmth. Singpho Phalap tea is also offered to guests as a sign of respect and friendship.
Singpho Phalap tea is not just a beverage but also has a cultural significance for the Singpho tribe. Tea is an integral part of their social and religious ceremonies and is often used as a symbol of hospitality. Singpho Phalap tea is served to guests as a sign of respect and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
In recent years, Singpho Phalap tea has gained popularity beyond the Singpho community, and it is now available in various parts of India and the world. The tea has caught the attention of tea enthusiasts and is now being appreciated for its unique flavor profile and health benefits.
If you want to experience the richness of Assam tea culture, Singpho Phalap tea is a must-try. You can order Singpho Phalap tea from online tea stores like TeaOrb, which offers a variety of teas from Assam and other regions of India.
Singpho Phalap tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are picked and left to wither for a few hours. The withered leaves are then pan-fried in a wok or sun-dried to stop the oxidation process. The leaves are then packed into a bamboo cylinder where the tea leaves undergo a slow fermentation process.
The fermentation process gives Singpho Phalap tea its unique flavor and aroma, which is described as earthy, woody, and slightly smoky. The tea has a reddish-brown color and a smooth texture. Singpho Phalap tea is usually consumed without milk or sugar, and it is served hot.
Singpho Phalap tea leaves cake/coin
Water
Jaggery or honey (optional)
Enjoy the unique taste and aroma of Singpho Phalap tea!
Singpho Phalap tea is best enjoyed without milk, as milk can mask the tea's unique flavor profile. The tea can be brewed multiple times, and the flavor profile changes with each brewing. Oh, and it tastes best when aged!
Singpho Phalap tea has a high concentration of polyphenols, which can help improve digestion. The tea can also help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating and constipation.
Singpho Phalap tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system. Antioxidants can help protect the body against free radicals, which can cause cellular damage and increase the risk of chronic diseases.
Singpho Phalap tea contains theanine, an amino acid that is known for its relaxing and calming properties. Theanine can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and promote better sleep.
Singpho Phalap tea can aid in weight loss by increasing metabolism and reducing appetite. The tea contains caffeine, which can help boost metabolism and increase the rate at which the body burns calories.
Singpho Phalap tea is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. These compounds can help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation, which are major contributors to chronic diseases.
Overall, Singpho Phalap tea is a healthy and flavorful tea variety that offers numerous health benefits. Incorporating Singpho Phalap tea into your diet can help improve digestion, boost immunity, reduce stress and anxiety, aid in weight loss, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Singpho Phalap tea's smoky and earthy flavor profile makes it an excellent pairing for spicy foods. The tea can help balance out the heat and spice of dishes and enhance the overall flavor.
Singpho Phalap tea can be served with a variety of snacks, such as cookies, biscuits, and savory snacks. The tea's unique flavor profile pairs well with both sweet and savory snacks.
Singpho Phalap tea can be enjoyed as a morning tea with breakfast. The tea's caffeine content can help boost energy levels and improve focus, making it an ideal choice for starting the day.
Singpho Phalap tea is a unique tea variety from Assam that is produced by the Singpho tribe. The tea has a smoky and earthy flavor profile with notes of honey and caramel and is known for its health benefits. Singpho Phalap tea is an integral part of the Singpho community's culture and is often served during social gatherings and festivals. If you are interested in trying Singpho Phalap tea, you can purchase it from specialty tea stores and online retailers. Give this unique Assam tea variety a try and experience the taste of the forest in every sip!
Singpho Phalap tea has a smoky and earthy flavor profile with notes of honey and caramel.
Singpho Phalap tea is known for its numerous health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting immunity, reducing stress and anxiety, aiding in weight loss, and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
To brew Singpho Phalap tea, boil water, and steep the tea leaves cake/coin for 3-5 minutes or until the leaves unfurl, strain, and serve.
Singpho Phalap tea can be purchased from specialty tea stores and online retailers, such as TeaOrb and Amazon.
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