Australian Billy Tea

Early Australian settlers brewed their tea in a Billy; a metal can with a wire handle, filled with water and suspended over an open fire. When the water boils, it is removed from the fire with a forked stick, and a fistful of tea leaves are added. This is then left to brew for a few minutes. And in true swagman style, a couple of scented eucalyptus leaves are often thrown in for extra “bushy flavour.

The next step requires some level of caution and skill. Grab the hot handle using a hat, or something similar, and in order to get the tea leaves to sink to the bottom, swing the billy over your head, in a full circle, three times. This requires a purposeful swing without hesitation to prevent a painful scalding. It is also recommended that bystanders keep their distance!

However if you are not up for these fireside shenanigans, just let the billy sit for a minute or two and then pour carefully into metal mugs. You still get a good cuppa without risking life and limb.

You can add milk and sugar, although it's unlikely the early settlers would have had access to either.

OR, you can just switch on the kettle at home and brew up an Aussie bush experience.

Our True Blue Australian Billy Tea is a hearty blend of Australian grown black tea, native Peppermint Gum and Lemon Scented Gum with just a hint of smoky Lapsang Souchong for that authentic campfire flavour & aroma. You’ll be transported into the Australian Bush with just one sniff and a sip of this robust, smoky and eucalyptus inspired brew. Put the billy on and grow yourself a beard mate!