Red Jaime

An Outlander Inspired Rooibos Tea Blend

This rooibos chai tea blend is inspired by James Alexander Malcolm MacKenzie Fraser, the sexy Scottish highlander in Diane Gabaldon novels and the series Outlander on Starz. “A tall, straight-bodied, and by no means ill-favored young Highlander at close range is breath-taking.”― Diana Gabaldon, Outlander

James Fraser was commonly known as Red Jamie (Seumas Ruadh in Gaelic), during the Rising of 1745, but was his nickname primarily because of his red hair. Yep, this redheaded Scot pops up in many steamy dreams I imagine.

There he is, standing in front of a roaring fire, his kilt is wrinkled but it is obviously the McKenzie clan tartan he is wearing. The red hair is glinting in the firelight like a firefly. The stoneware ale mug is steaming tonight, and there is a delightful spicy vanilla scent wafting this way and that. As he takes a long sip, you can see the pure look of satisfaction that crosses his face as he says “Aye, Sassenach, this is good tea”.

Rooibos (pronounced ‘roy-boss) means ‘red bush’ and does not come from the Camellia Sinensis plant, but instead it comes from a shrub that is native to South Africa. This herb dates back to the 1700’s but didn’t start being available commercially until the 1930’s. The rooibos bush is actually green, but because it is dried out under the African sun, the leaves change from green to a very deep mahogany color. Rooibos is naturally sweet, naturally caffeine-free, and low in tannins. It is also packed with calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, vitamin c and many others. It’s natural hydration and anti-inflammatory properties make it the go to beverage of choice when you are feeling dehydrated. Did you know that rooibos also acts as a bronchodilator and an antihistamine without the drowsy side effects?

Because rooibos is not actually a true tea, it will not get bitter if you over steep it. In fact, steeping it for 10 minutes or longer only results in a more flavorful cup. It can support milk, cream, honey, sugar, and is even better when it is served iced or my personal favorite, cold-brewed.

I mean, what else could you ask for, besides a tall, dark, highlander in a kilt and this rooibos tea blend with chai spices, a hint of vanilla, and a subtle, yet sensuous pineapple finish. If you don’t have the highlander, fret not, you still have this tea blend. Hey, where’s my kilt?