Chai aficionados often search for the ideal combination of spices and tea leaves to craft a delightful and flavorful cup of chai. At Monk’s Chai, we’ve embarked on a quest to uncover the crucial element that elevates our signature blend to new heights — Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe, or FBOP. In this article, we will delve into what FBOP represents, its origins, what distinguishes it from other teas, the health advantages it offers, and why it plays a pivotal role in our Monk’s Chai specialty.

WHAT IS FLOWERY BROKEN ORANGE PEKOE (FBOP)?

Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe, commonly referred to as FBOP, stands out as a grade of black tea renowned for its exceptional flavor profile and quick infusion capabilities. It is renowned for its large, unblemished leaves, typically harvested during the first or second flush, often featuring abundant golden tips. The term “Flowery” highlights the presence of youthful, golden tips on the tea leaves, while “Broken” suggests that the leaves are not whole but are fragmented into smaller pieces, ideal for quick steeping. “Orange Pekoe” typically denotes a high-quality black tea, and “pekoe” represents the unopened terminal leaf buds (tips) in tea flushes. As a result, phrases like “a bud and a leaf” or “a bud and two leaves” describe the “leafiness” of a flush and are often used interchangeably with pekoe and a leaf or pekoe and two leaves.

WHERE DOES FBOP COME FROM?

Despite purported Chinese origins, these grading terms are predominantly associated with teas from regions like Sri Lanka, India, and other countries, rather than in Chinese-speaking regions. At Monk’s Chai, our FBOP tea is sourced from sustainable and organic family-run plantations in the Assam region, situated on both sides of the Brahmaputra River in India. This region’s tea is celebrated for its robust body, well-structured flavor, malty notes, and vivid hues. Grown at or near sea level, it allows the unique terroir of Assam to shine through in each cup.

WHAT SETS FBOP APART FROM OTHERS?

FBOP’s distinctiveness lies in its sizeable, unblemished leaves and the presence of golden tips. This unique tea grade quickly releases its flavors during steeping, whether enjoyed on its own or as a key component in chai blends. The rich, malty notes with subtle hints of caramel and vanilla make it a perfect bridge between the spiciness and sweetness of our chai blend. FBOP’s flavor profile harmonizes seamlessly with our blend, resulting in a chai that is both bold and well-balanced.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF BROKEN ORANGE PEKOE

Beyond its exceptional flavor, FBOP tea offers several health advantages. It is a rich source of antioxidants, which aid in protecting the body against free radicals and oxidative stress. Black tea, such as FBOP, is also recognized for its potential to support heart health, aid in digestion, and boost energy levels. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy chai while reaping these potential health benefits.

WHY DO WE USE FBOP IN OUR SIGNATURE MONK’S CHAI?

As Chai Makers, our mission is to highlight the dedication of the farmers who cultivate our teas. By incorporating FBOP into our chai ingredients, we ensure that our chai boasts an exceptional flavor profile and rapid flavor release during steeping. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for both stovetop home brewing and for our commercial partners with professional equipment, delivering instant results. FBOP’s rich, malty character forms the core of our Monk’s Chai, creating a distinctive blend that strikes a balance between spiciness and sweetness, ensuring a perfect cup of chai with each brew.

In conclusion, Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe, or FBOP, serves as the secret ingredient that distinguishes Monk’s Chai. Sourced from the Assam region, it contributes to the robust, flavorful, and aromatic blend cherished by chai enthusiasts. FBOP’s remarkable flavor, quick infusion, and health benefits make it the ideal choice for our signature chai blend, guaranteeing a delightful experience in every cup for our customers. Explore our exquisite chai collections at AU — Monk’s Chai today!