Zavarikha

Zavarikha (Russian: завариха) is a Russian term referring to the concentrated tea base brewed separately and then diluted with hot water to create the final tea beverage. It's essentially a tea concentrate. The process is similar to making a strong infusion.

The term distinguishes the process from simply steeping a teabag or loose leaf tea directly in a single cup or pot of hot water. Zavarikha allows for more control over the strength of the tea, as the amount of concentrate added to the hot water can be adjusted according to individual preferences.

The preparation of zavarikha typically involves using a larger amount of tea leaves relative to water than a standard tea brewing method. The tea is steeped for a longer period, resulting in a dark, intensely flavored concentrate. This concentrate is then kept warm and served by diluting it with boiling water in individual cups or glasses.

This method of tea preparation is common in Russia and other countries of the former Soviet Union. It is seen as a way to ensure a consistently strong and flavorful tea, especially when serving multiple people or over an extended period. The zavarikha is often kept in a samovar or similar warming vessel to maintain its temperature and prevent it from becoming stale. The diluted tea is frequently enjoyed with sugar, lemon, or jam.