Mountain tea

I have loved Greek and Turkish mountain tea for decades, and I am always delighted when I can find it at the market.

Greek mountain tea (Greek: Tsái tou vounoú / Τσάι του βουνού) is made from the dried flowers, leaves, and stems of Sideritis plants (also known as Greek ironwort).

It grows wild at altitudes between 1,000 and 2,000 meters in the Mediterranean region (particularly in Greece and the Balkans). It has a savory, herbal flavor with subtle notes of sage and lemon, and is traditionally considered to have warming, anti-inflammatory, and digestive-aiding properties.

It is often consumed to help with colds or stomach ailments, or simply for relaxation. It can be enjoyed hot, or served cold with ice cubes, lemon, and a touch of honey.

Here on Crete, the variety found is Malotira (Sideritis syriaca) . This specific variety grows exclusively in the mountains of Crete - most notably in the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) - and is considered one of the finest subspecies of Greek mountain tea.

The name has historical roots in the Venetian language: male (pain/illness) and tirare (to pull/drive away) - loosely translated, it means "that which drives away illness."

Compared to other varieties (such as Sideritis scardica from the mainland), Malotira often has a milder, softer flavor with a delicate citrus note.

I will definitely bring one or two big 300g bags back to Germany.Read more