Tea Culture in Ukraine

Ukrainian people drink 1 lb of tea per year per capita. The most preferred one is the black tea, and after that, they choose green, herbal, or floral.

History of Tea in Ukraine

Ukrainians have been drinking tea since the 17th century when they signed the first trading agreement with China as part of Tsarist Russia.

As an expensive beverage at that time, tea was a symbol of wealth only accessible to the upper class.

However, as Ukrainian tea culture expanded throughout the years, tea became a popular drink among the masses in the 19th century, and it’s been present in their culture ever since.

Ukrainian Tea Culture

Due to the cold weather, the people of Ukraine drink tea in small saucers rather than in teacups as the pleasant aroma evaporates.

As strong-flavor flavor lovers, they prefer black tea with lemon and sugar.

Green, white, and Pu-erh are other favorite flavors for people of all ages.

Ukrainians brew tea in samovars, devices that contain three chambers, a cylindrical chimney on the top, a round cooking chamber in the middle, and a vent at the bottom. The faucet and the handle are on the outside of the samovar.

Tea Farms in Ukraine

There is only one tea farm in the country, Mount Zhornina Tea Plantation in Thrancarpathia, dating since 1956.

From a total of 172 acres of tea farm, today we only have 5 acres of twisted leaf oolong left, hoping that this tea farm will stay safe in the unfortunate war flames.

Ukrainian people also love to drink herbal, floral, and fruit teas from local plantations. Here are some of the flowers and fruits used in a variety of tea blends in Ukraine.

• Dried chamomile
• Dried mint leaves
• Dried rosebay willowherb leaves
• Dried calendula flowers
• Dried elderberries
• Dried raspberries
• Dried linden flowers
• Dried blackberry leaves
• Dried strawberry leaves
• Dried currant leaves

Uvar – Iconic Non-Alcoholic Ukranian Beverage

Uvar is a delicious non-alcoholic infusion of fresh and dry fruits, organic honey, and hot water. Left overnight or for at least six hours, this naturally sweet compote-like beverage is one of the most iconic drinks in Ukraine. Pour hot water over the fruits and honey, but never boil them.