My favorite way to spend a Sunday morning is to brew a big pot of tea and relax while planning my day. Sometimes I putter around the house, straightening things up or doing laundry, but more often it is my tea, a book, and me – and some nice swing … Continue reading
The origin of the name for punch may be somewhat in doubt – some say it comes from the Hindi for “five” since the drink consisted of five main ingredients, while others surmise it is a short version of the word “puncheon,” a cask for liquor or the tool used … Continue reading
Masala Chai is a very popular tea from India that includes spices as well as herbs. In some cases, Masala Chai is used as an ayurvedic medicine; however, this particular recipe should not be relied on for any curative qualities. While the word “chai” seems to apply specifically to Indian … Continue reading
With summer fully upon us, it’s time to fire up the stovetop early in the day and enjoy a cold supper the same night or even the next one. For me, the centerpiece of that supper in summer is velvety, cold poached salmon. Wild fish from the Copper River in … Continue reading
In introducing folks to the world of tea, I have often been asked – by rather sparked enthusiasts – what to pair with tea. In our San Diego Tea Meetup group, we finally took on this challenge. I say challenge because for many “tea sophisticates,” this is a never-ending quest. … Continue reading
Just like other agricultural products, tea has its seasons and now is the time for shincha, the new crop of sencha green tea from Japan. As green, lovely, and refreshing as this most popular everyday Japanese tea can be in the cup, when properly brewed, it is also the ideal … Continue reading