Why Irani Tea is the Most Famous in Hyderabad

On December 9th, 2023, I set foot in Hyderabad for the very first time. As someone who had always associated the city with the Nizams and their legendary biryani, I was eager to explore the culinary delights beyond the famous rice dish. Having lived in Delhi, my love for travel and food had often taken me to new places, but this visit felt different. It was a mix of excitement and apprehension, venturing into unfamiliar territory.

The moment I arrived in Hyderabad, one word kept echoing around me—“Irani tea is the Most Famous in Hyderabad.” I had never heard much about it before, and my curiosity was piqued. My flatmate, noticing my confusion, enlightened me about its local fame. She mentioned that Irani tea, often paired with biscuits, was a beloved staple in the city. Intrigued, I decided to dig deeper into its history.

The Rich History of Irani Tea

Irani tea the Most Famous in Hyderabad has its roots in the 19th century when Persian immigrants settled in India. They brought with them a unique tea culture, which soon became a part of the local culinary landscape. Hyderabad, with its rich history and cosmopolitan culture, embraced this beverage wholeheartedly. The tea is traditionally brewed with a blend of strong black tea leaves, milk, and sometimes cardamom or other spices, giving it a distinctive, robust flavor. Over time, Irani cafés sprouted across the city, becoming social hubs where people from all walks of life gathered to enjoy a cup of this aromatic tea.

My First Encounter with Irani Tea

Despite being a staunch coffee lover, I decided to unravel the mystery of Irani tea- Most Famous in Hyderabad. Accompanied by my friend, I ventured to a well-known dhaba renowned for its authentic Irani tea. As the steaming cup was placed before me, my friend’s reaction was instantaneous, “Oh Wowee!” He relished every sip, and I could see the delight in his eyes and taste and that time we realised why this is the Most Famous in Hyderabad.

Curious, I took a sip myself. The rich, creamy texture, coupled with the subtle hint of spices, was unlike any tea I had tasted before. It was strong yet soothing, a perfect blend that danced on my palate. We struck up conversations with a few locals, and their enthusiasm was infectious. They spoke passionately about their love for Irani tea, some even claiming it to be the best part of their day.

How Irani Tea is Made

Irani tea, a cherished beverage in Hyderabad, is known for its rich and robust flavor. Here’s how it’s traditionally made:

Boiling Water: Start by boiling water in a large pot. The water needs to be at a rolling boil to extract the full flavor of the tea leaves.
Adding Tea Leaves: Once the water is boiling, add a generous amount of strong black tea leaves. The high-quality leaves are essential for the deep, robust flavor characteristic of Irani tea.
Simmering: Let the tea leaves simmer in the boiling water for a few minutes, allowing them to release their rich essence.
Mixing with Milk: In a separate pot, heat a generous amount of milk. The milk should be full-fat for the best taste. Bring it to a boil and then simmer until it thickens slightly.
Combining Tea and Milk: Carefully strain the brewed tea into the pot of hot milk. Stir well to combine the two.
Sweetening: Add sugar to taste. Irani tea is typically sweet, enhancing its creamy richness.
Final Boil: Bring the mixture to a final boil to ensure all the flavors meld together perfectly.

Serve hot with a side of Osmania biscuits for an authentic Hyderabad experience.

The Hype is Real

Initially, I thought the local fervor for Irani tea might be an exaggeration. However, the more I explored, the more I realized its significance of this tea the Most Famous in Hyderabad. The tea culture in Hyderabad is vibrant and deeply rooted in the city’s history. The masalas used in the tea are often sourced from Guntur, adding a unique flavor that sets it apart.

Even celebrities and influencers are not immune to its charm. I attended a show by the famous comedian Abhinav Bassi, who, during his act, marveled at the tea, saying, “Bhai, tum log voh konsi chai pila dete ho, maza hi aa jata hai” (Brother, what kind of tea do you serve? It’s simply delightful). This widespread appreciation transcends all boundaries, making Irani tea a beloved beverage among locals and visitors alike.

A Word of Caution

However, not every place that claims to serve Irani tea truly offers an authentic experience. Many establishments ride on its popularity without delivering genuine taste. It’s essential to do your research and find the right spots that stay true to the original recipe. The true essence of Irani tea lies in the perfect blend of quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods.

My Culinary Journey in Hyderabad

My stay in Hyderabad has just begun, and I am thrilled about the culinary adventures that await me. Irani tea was just the beginning of my exploration of the city’s rich food culture. The people here are passionate about their cuisine, and it’s this passion that makes every meal an experience to remember.

As I continue to discover more about Hyderabad’s diverse food scene, I’ll be sharing my experiences on my blog. From street food to fine dining, each story will be a testament to the city’s culinary heritage. So, stay tuned for more flavorful content and travel tales from this vibrant city. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @lyrics_Of_My_town

Until next time, happy sipping and happy exploring!