What Is Rooibos—and Why Cook Rice with It?
It is not tea-leaf tea and naturally contains no caffeine. Rooibos has a red colour and gentle sweetness that also works surprisingly well in rice.
Rooibos does not come from the tea plant
Rooibos means “red bush” in Afrikaans. It is a legume shrub associated with South Africa's Cederberg region. Its needle-like leaves are cut, oxidised and dried until they turn reddish brown.
Naturally caffeine-free
Unlike black or green tea, rooibos is naturally caffeine-free and lower in tannins, so it can be brewed for longer without becoming as astringent. Its flavour has gentle sweetness and woody notes.
Why use it for rice?
Rice cooked in brewed rooibos takes on a subtle reddish colour, light aroma and mild sweetness without overwhelming the rest of the bowl. It pairs particularly well with steam-roasted meat and vegetables.
At THIRD HEARTH
- Rooibos Tea Rice is a Freedom Fire base. Choose it alone or in an available half-and-half combination.
- Rose Rooibos is a caffeine-free tea, available lightly sweetened or unsweetened, with add-on pricing when you order an OKAO Bowl.
FAQ
01How is Rooibos Tea Rice different from white rice?
It is cooked with brewed rooibos, giving it a reddish-brown colour and a subtle tea aroma. Rooibos is naturally caffeine-free.
02Can children eat Rooibos Tea Rice?
Rooibos is naturally caffeine-free. Ask the store about ingredients if you have a specific dietary or allergy concern.
