A subtle and beneficial alternative
Pairing tea with raclette is, first of all, a lovely alternative to alcohol. Whether to reduce your alcohol consumption or simply to vary the pleasures, tea offers an equally rich sensory experience. It accompanies the melted cheese by bringing a touch of freshness and a welcome lightness.
The lukewarm temperature of the tea also plays an essential role. It aids digestion while enhancing the flavours of the melted cheese. The milky, round and vanilla notes of the cheese blend harmoniously with the tea’s aromas, creating a soft, balanced fusion on the palate.
The art of tea and cheese pairings
Tea, an aid to lighter digestion
The lukewarm temperature of the tea aids the digestion of raclette for several physiological reasons:
1. Stimulation of digestive enzymes: The warmth of the tea stimulates enzyme activity in the stomach, thus facilitating the breakdown of the fats contained in the cheese.
2. Emulsification of fats: The warmth helps to liquefy the fats in the cheese, making them easier to digest and avoiding that feeling of heaviness often felt after a rich meal.
3. Soothing effect on the stomach: Unlike cold drinks, which can slow digestion by contracting the gastric muscles, a lukewarm drink promotes better circulation of gastric juices and a smoother digestive process.
4. Draining action: Some teas, notably green and white teas, contain polyphenols that can stimulate the metabolism and promote the elimination of fats.
The recommended tea pairings
Tea-and-raclette pairings offer an original and refined alternative to classic combinations.
Whether you love white teas with delicate notes or black teas with deep aromas, there is a perfect pairing to enhance your raclette.
Here is a selection recommended by Carine Baudry, Sourcing and Creation Director at nunshen.
This white tea from Nepal stands out for its notes of fresh grass, honeysuckle and lemon zest. It subtly awakens the milky, round and vanilla notes of the melted cheese. Its freshness and floral roundness make it an ideal companion for a light, fragrant raclette.
Gold medal at the AVPA Paris 2022 Teas of the World competition.
For those who prefer a more intense experience, this black tea rich in aromas of honey, wood and fruit offers a remarkable depth. It brings more roundness and persistence on the palate, pairing perfectly with a more characterful and flavoursome raclette.
Silver medal at the AVPA 2022 Teas of the World competition.