Rooibos: the red tea from South Africa that is conquering the worldRooibos (or red tea) is not just a drink. It's a whole philosophy that comes from South Africa. It is consumed, enjoyed, used in cuisine, and even in cosmetology. But what makes this tea so special? Why has it become popular far beyond its continent? And can it be used in baking, desserts, and sauces? Let's find out.What is Rooibos and why is it so specialRooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is a shrub that grows only in one place on Earth: in the Western Cape province of South Africa, in the Cederberg area. It has nothing to do with the tea plant (Camellia sinensis), from which black and green tea are made. Therefore, it is more correct to call it not tea, but a herbal drink. Its leaves and branches are fermented, and during the process, they acquire that bright red-brown color and a sweet, nutty taste.The main advantage of rooibos is the absence of caffeine. Therefore, it can be consumed at any time of the day, even before bedtime. It does not stimulate, but rather relaxes and warms. And this is one of the reasons why it is loved all over the world.Rooibos in cuisine: unexpected combinationsRooibos is not just a drink. It is increasingly being used in cuisine, not just as a flavoring agent. Its sweet, slightly woody taste goes well with fruits, chocolate, nuts, and even meat. Here are some examples:Desserts with RooibosRooibos can be added to creams, mousses, puddings, and sauces. It is often used to soak biscuits, as it gives them a delicate caramel hue. For example, in Italy, rooibos is added to panna cotta and tiramisu. In Sweden, it is used in baking — added to cookie and cake dough to give them a light nutty flavor.One of the simplest ways is to use rooibos instead of water or milk when making puddings and rice porridge. Such a dessert turns out to be aromatic and unusual.Rooibos in bakingGround rooibos can be added to dough for bread, cupcakes, and muffins. This gives baked goods a light caramel hue ... Read more