Tea Blog

Ever sipped on a cloud? That's what enjoying a London Fog is like. This delightful drink got its start in Vancouver, not foggy London as you might think. It's a warm, creamy tea-based concoction that combines the earthy notes of Earl Grey tea with sweet vanilla and steamed milk to create a cozy hug in a mug.

Perfect for a chilly afternoon or when you want a break from the usual coffee run, a London Fog takes your tea experience to the next level. Stick around, and you'll learn how easy it is to make this comforting beverage right in your own kitchen. 

What Makes Up A London Fog

The magic of a London Fog lies in its simplicity and harmony of flavors. Here are the three key components that make this drink:

• Earl Grey Tea: Earl Grey is a black tea infused with the oil of bergamot, giving it that distinctive citrusy flair. It's aromatic and bold, perfect for a rainy day pick-me-up.

• Steamed Milk: This is what gives the London Fog its signature creaminess. The milk is not just warmed but frothed, adding a fluffy texture. Can't have dairy? No problem! Try using almond or oat milk for a lactose-free twist.

• Vanilla: A touch of vanilla syrup or extract marries the tea and milk together, adding a gentle sweetness that rounds out the flavors.

If you’re one of those people who find tea a bit too “blah,” a London Fog might just be your new best friend. With its creamy comfort and whisper of sweetness, it’s a cozy indulgence that invites you to snuggle up and savor every sip.

Tea Selection

The star of our show? Earl Grey tea! This fine tea is famous for its delicate balance of black tea and bergamot oil, giving it a citrusy, floral aroma. When choosing a tea, look for loose leaf tea for a high quality, more flavorful brew.

Milk and Alternatives

When it comes to milk, the world is your oyster! Which will you pick to make your London Fog dreamy and creamy?

• Traditional milk: Whole milk is creamy and luxurious.
• Plant-based alternatives: Almond, soy, or oat milk are great for different flavors or if you’re going dairy-free.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to sweeten the deal? Throw in a pinch of flavor with enhancements that can take your London Fog to new heights.

• Sweeteners: Sugar, honey, or maple syrup can each add a touch of sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla is like adding harmony to a melody.
• Floral Notes: For an herbal twist, try using a floral Earl Grey. This will add a beautiful note to an, already amazing, latte. We specifically suggest Victorian Earl Grey loose leaf tea!

These little touches can elevate your drink from “nice” to “wow”! 

Brewing the Perfect Tea

Brewing the tea is where it all begins. Getting this part right is crucial for that perfect aroma and flavor.

• Choose Your Tea: Start with a high-quality Earl Grey tea.
• Water Matters: Boil fresh, filtered water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, let it cool for about a minute. This helps to prevent the tea from becoming too bitter. Your ideal water temperature is 195 degrees.
• Steep Correctly: Pour the hot water over the tea and let it steep for about 3-5 minutes. If you want a stronger flavor, go for 5 minutes. Too long, and you'll risk a bitter brew.
• Remove the Tea: Once it has steeped to your liking, strain the leaves.

Steaming or Frothing Milk

Now, let's talk milk. The texture is what makes your London Fog shine.

• Heat the Milk: Pour your milk of choice into a saucepan and heat it gently. Avoid boiling—you're not making a volcano!

• Froth Like a Pro: If you have a frother, this is the time to use it. No frother? No problem! You can vigorously whisk it or shake it in a jar with the lid on until frothy.

London Fog Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Hot Water
• 2 1/2 tsp Earl Grey Loose Leaf Tea
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
• Optional: Sweetener 

Instructions:

• Brew 1 cup of hot water, steep your loose leaf tea in it for 3-5 minutes.
• Strain out the pieces of loose leaf.
• Add 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract to your brewed tea.
• Heat (remember not to let it boil) and froth 1/2 cup of milk.
• Pour the frothy milk into the tea, holding back the froth with a spoon, then top it off with the frothy goodness.
• Feel free to add a touch of honey, sugar, or syrup if desired. Give it a gentle stir.

So, are you ready to sip on a bit of London in your home? With this easy recipe, you'll have a delicious London Fog to warm your hands and heart, all while savoring the fragrant blend of bergamot and vanilla.

Perfect Pairings

When enjoying a warm London Fog, why not add a tasty treat on the side? Here are some goodies that are just perfect to munch on while sipping your beverage:

• Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam: Think of scones as the trusty sidekick to your London Fog. Their crumbly texture paired with clotted cream and fruity jam is a true delight.

• Freshly Baked Croissants: These buttery treats are like a warm hug for your taste buds. The flaky layers contrast beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the London Fog.

• Shortbread Cookies: Simple shortbreads offer a sweet, buttery crunch that complements the smoothness of the tea.

• Lavender Macarons: For a touch of elegance, pair your drink with lavender macarons. Their light and floral notes match well with the Earl Grey's essence.

• Dark Chocolate Squares: If you love a bit of sweetness, a dark chocolate square balances perfectly against the frothy milk and rich tea.

By adding a few of these snacks, you can turn an ordinary tea time into an extraordinary experience. After all, a London Fog deserves a bit of English tea-time flair, wouldn't you agree?

Try It Yourself

You've learned the secrets to crafting a delicious London Fog. Now it's your turn to put on your barista apron and try making one yourself. You might just find it's your new go-to latte!