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Elevate Southern Comfort: Royal Golden Latte Rooibos & Fried Chicken with Honey Butter Biscuits

Beverly Glover



This winter, we invite you to experience the warmth and richness of Upland Tea House's curated rooibos teas alongside the soulful, comforting flavors of classic Soul Food dishes. Each pairing offers a unique narrative, blending cultural heritage, the soothing essence of tea, and the deeply satisfying qualities of Soul Food. Below are eight blog post ideas for the guide, each highlighting a tea pairing with a soul-satisfying recipe. First up is Royal Golden Latte and Fried Chicken.


The Perfect Harmony: Tea Meets Tradition

The Royal Golden Latte Rooibos offers a velvety texture and warm, spiced flavors that beautifully balance the rich, savory crunch of fried chicken. The turmeric and cinnamon in the tea subtly enhance the seasonings in the chicken, while the creaminess cuts through the dish’s indulgence. Meanwhile, honey butter biscuits provide a touch of sweetness that complements the tea’s smooth finish, creating a symphony of flavors on your palate.


How to Create the Pairing

Fried Chicken

The key to perfectly crispy fried chicken is a flavorful marinade and a light, crunchy coating.Ingredients:

  • Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or wings)

  • 2 cups buttermilk

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s fully submerged, and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

  2. In a separate bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and coat each piece in the flour mixture.

  3. Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 12–15 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels and serve hot.


Honey Butter Biscuits

These buttery, tender biscuits are the ultimate sidekick to fried chicken and pair wonderfully with the spiced notes of the tea.Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tbsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

  • 3/4 cup milk

  • 2 tbsp honey (plus more for brushing)


Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. Add milk and honey, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

  4. Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently knead a few times, and pat into a 1-inch-thick disk. Use a biscuit cutter to shape biscuits.

  5. Place biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.

  6. While warm, brush biscuits with melted butter mixed with honey.


Serving Suggestions

Pour the Royal Golden Latte Rooibos into a vintage teacup or your favorite mug, allowing its

creamy golden hue to set the stage. Serve the fried chicken and biscuits family-style on a rustic wooden board or fine china for an intentional blend of down-home comfort and sophistication.

For an added touch, garnish the tea with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a twist of orange peel to enhance the sensory experience.


Why It Works

This pairing celebrates the heart of Southern hospitality while embracing a touch of global elegance. The spiced richness of the tea mirrors the seasoning in the chicken, while the tea’s creamy base tempers the heat and balances the dish. Together, they create a memorable meal that bridges tradition and refinement, making every bite and sip feel like an indulgent embrace.

Experience the magic of pairing tea with soul food. With Upland Tea House, every moment is brewed with intention and crafted for connection.



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