What type of beverage is traditionally served with spicy Asian dishes to cool the palate?

Tea is traditionally served with spicy Asian dishes to help cool the palate for a few reasons. It has a soothing effect due to its temperature and composition, which can counterbalance the heat from the spices. Additionally, the inherent qualities of tea can enhance the overall dining experience, by complementing the flavors in the food while providing a refreshing cleanse for the mouth between bites. Certain types of tea, such as green tea or jasmine tea, are particularly popular in Asian cuisine and are known for their ability to refresh and enhance the flavors of spicy dishes. In contrast, wine and beer may not offer the same level of palate cooling and are often paired with different cuisines, while water, although hydrating, lacks the flavor components that could further enrich the meal.