Have you ever wondered why a delicious and comforting tea-based drink is called a London Fog? The name itself is quite intriguing and has an air of mystery surrounding it. In this article, we’ll explore the history behind this popular beverage and why it’s named after the city of London.
The Origin Story
The London Fog is a hot beverage that consists of Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup. Although the exact origin of this drink is unknown, it’s believed to have originated in Vancouver, Canada in the early 2000s.
The owner of a local coffee shop created the drink as a spin-off of a traditional Earl Grey tea latte by adding vanilla syrup to it. The silky texture and comforting taste quickly made it a favorite among customers and soon became a staple on coffee shop menus.
Why Is It Called A London Fog?
The name “London Fog” might seem like an odd choice for a tea-based drink, but there’s actually some history behind it. A “foggy” day in London refers to when thick fog would descend upon the city due to pollution from coal fires during the Industrial Revolution. These dense fogs were so thick that they would often disrupt transportation and even led to respiratory issues among residents.
The drink’s name is thought to be inspired by these foggy days in London because the steamed milk creates a layer of foam on top of the tea that resembles the look of fog. Additionally, Earl Grey tea has been associated with British culture since its inception in England during the 1800s. Thus, combining these two elements created an irresistible connection with London.
How To Make A London Fog
Now that you know about the history behind this popular drink, you might be curious about how to make one yourself! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Earl Grey tea bag
- 8 ounces of steamed milk
- 1-2 pumps of vanilla syrup
To make a London Fog, start by steeping an Earl Grey tea bag in hot water for 3-5 minutes. While the tea is steeping, steam the milk until it’s hot and frothy.
Then, remove the tea bag and add 1-2 pumps of vanilla syrup to the tea. Finally, pour the steamed milk over the tea and enjoy!
The Bottom Line
The London Fog might have a mysterious name, but its history is rooted in British culture and inspired by the city’s infamous foggy days. This delicious and comforting drink is perfect for any time of day and can be easily made at home with just a few simple ingredients. So why not give it a try and experience a taste of London right in your own kitchen?