Lahpet, also spelt laphet (Burmese:) is Burmese for fermented
or pickled tea. Burma is one of very few countries where tea is eaten
as well as drunk. Its pickled tea is unique in the region, and is not only regarded
as the national delicacy but plays a significant role in Burmese society.
Its place in the cuisine of Myanmar is reflected by the following
popular expression:
"Of all the fruit, the mango's the best;
Of all the meat, pork's the best;
Of all the leaves, lahpet's the best".