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LOOSE LEAF Why raw tea is in to stay
Snacking Around
Hello friends! This is your friendly neighborhood editor - Lydia! This issue is a bit of a break from our normal routine of afternoon tea and parties. We wanted to get out of the merchandise and formalities associated with tea for a change. In short, we’re giving you what you asked for! It has been a struggle working on this issue, but fun to see how it’s developed since the initial stages. I hope to see you next time readers.
The Beauty of Glass Teacups and Teapots
Snacking Around Sweets for tea
LOOSE LEAF
Why is loose leaf so popular? While there are a number of reasons
much like a fine wine, the tea retains its
loose leaf is popular, it all comes
distinctive flavors and characteristics.
back to quality. Loose leaf teas are of a higher flavor quality that regular
Loose leaf teas contain the whole,
bagged teas.
unbroken leaf. The unfurling leaf leads to a stronger, more flavorful cup of tea. Some
High quality loose teas are made
teas can even be resteeped and provide
from the Camellia sinensis plant’s
a same full-bodied flavor.
finest hand-picked buds, whole tea leaves, large pieces of leaves or a
In contrast, the tea found in tea bags
combination of these parts. The time
usually consist of smaller pieces of tea
of year and growing conditions greatly
leaves or tea fannings (also referred to
affect the quality of tea. When all of
as dusts) which may give a quicker brew,
these factors are taken into account,
but lack the subtlety and full flavor of the
by Lydia Howard larger loose leaf teas. Bagged teas just
houses. Tea has had a revival in the
don’t allow expansion, which is key to
health scene as a magical weight loss/
getting the most flavor from a
cleanser what have you. Fancy teapots,
selection of tea.
steepers, and tea sets are even found in supermarkets and even the
In the past few years, loose leaf has
common dollar store will sometimes
become more accessible. With stores such
carry tea products.
as Teavana and online shops like Adagio, buyers have easier access to a variety of
With the new interests in teas it’s easier to
custom blends and rarer teas, like Silver
get your hands on all the equipment you
Needle or Monkey Picked Oolong.
need and go on try different combinations from the sampler you are used to. Classics
Just as coffee houses were popping up left
like Earl Grey have nice loose leaf varieties
and right just a few years ago, so are tea
available for less as well.
Many combinations are fruit and tea combinations. Dried citrus and berries create striking aromatic teas with brilliant coloring. Some tea shops even add such surreal things as chocolate and candies to their blends. You’ll have to see for yourself if they stand up to traditional blends. Other combinations mix traditional teas with hints of floral flavorings like vanilla and lavender. Herbal combinations are great for cold days.
Upper Left: Steeped Earl Grey can be resteeped after use, if you allow the leaves to dry. Left: This citrus blend is both beautiful to watch and drink. Fruit blends can be strong if left long, but generally only leave hints. Right: Bits of vanilla plant are mixed with earl grey in the combination for a aromatic tea.
The Beauty of Glass
article from Teaclass.com
Left: Blooming teas are made for glass teapots Upper: Vibrant colored teas are good for glass teapots. Scarlet Dragon is being brewed. Right: Glass teacups are also popular.
One of the auxiliary pleasures of drinking tea is selecting accoutrements: utensils, cups, kettles, storage tins, and, of course, teapots. The choices are legion with a dazzling array of shapes, sizes, decorative touches. Sometimes that blinds us to one of the most important decisions we must make in teapot selection: its function! Your teapot-buying decision should be based first and foremost on size (options often go from one to six cups, sometimes larger). Clear glass teapots (yes, there are colored ones) are a fabulous choice if you’re fascinated with the “agony
of the leaves”the way they unfurl and release the nectar we so enjoy.
“Using a glass teapot often will lead you to know both by the color and the texture of the leaves when it is done even when you choose not to use a timer.” Strainers can be glass, plastic or gold mesh and each works wonderfully, although glass offers the least possibility for impacting the flavor
of the tea and gold mesh is a good second choice. The only downside to glass infusers is they require tongs or insulated cloth to remove as they get very hot. Probably one of the best things about some glass teapots is the manufacturer’s ability to make a slight indentation in the tip of the spout. This facilitates pouring in a steady, non-spilling stream. Why every potter doesn’t use this scheme is a constant puzzle. Well-made glass teapots also have insulated handles; if not, a terrycloth towel or potholder will certainly protect your hands. Glass pots can stain and a little elbow grease, with or without mild soap, will clean them up easily and completely.
If soap is used, it is critical to rinse in very warm water) to ensure that no soap residue remains. Check for the manufacturer’s instructions whether the pot is dishwasher safe. Two caveats: Never put a hot teapot in a freezer or refrigerator and never put it directly on a gas or electric stove, because it might crack. Some manufacturers make complementary warming stands which use small tea candles that can keep the tea hot. Tea cozies are always suitable. Blooming teas are very popular to use in glass teapots. Indeed, they can only be properly enjoyed in a glass teapot. Watching the jasmine green tea bloom is a very relaxing image.
...a dazzling array of shapes, sizes, decorative touches
Break away f r o m t h e fo rm a l s e t t i n g o f sa ndw ich e s an d p as t ri e s a n d e n jo y t e a wi t h a snack– an yt i me ! by L ydia H o w ar d
SNACKING AROUND Enjoy a cup or two for breakfast with some toast and jam. The tea, Lemon Zinger, goes well with the jam, Rosebud. Try pairing herbal teas with fruit flavors, and flavorful foods. Straight teas can go well with sweets and are of course a favorite at meal times.
Specialty biscuits (cookies) are a favorite for casual tea drinkers. Good biscuits should be lightly sweet, but not to the intensity of such things as Oreos or other children’s sweets. These biscuits are from Kedem, and come in multiple flavors such as chocolate, orange, and a plain biscuit. The cute designs are also a favorite with children.
Other kinds of cracker, such as these kosher animal crackers are very good, and healthy too. Always try to be mindful of dietary restrictions and religious observance when preparing an array for friends. My favorite snacks come from the interantional section at the store.
Teas that fit your every mood.
Visit us online at: www.twinings.com Twinings is available at most supermarket retail locations and is found in the tea and coffee aisle.
Preview for Issue 13 Teacup Hunt
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