The Life of a Tea Snob!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I know we are discussing cooking with tea this month–but sometimes the purest form of something is the simplest form!  And the healthiest.  I am a tea snob.  I love tea!  I have drank iced tea for as long as I can remember.  Over time, I have developed a taste for freshly brewed black tea, and some flavored teas.  Earl Grey, Ginger Peach and Raspberry are some of my favorites.  It’s fun to head to our local tea store and sample new and unusual teas.

Freshly brewed tea over ice is the best.  The flavor is not the only thing that I enjoy.  There has been a great deal of research about drinking black tea.  It contains antioxidants that may help prevent certain diseases and several types of cancer.  Tea without added sugar or milk is 99.5 % water, so it can function as part of your 8-10 glasses of hydration per day.  It is perfect for someone who wants a calorie free drink in the morning instead of many high calorie coffee drinks.

To make the perfect cup of tea, without making it bitter, it is best to start with fresh cold water.  Place it in the tea pot, and bring to a boil.  Pour over your tea bag or fresh leaves, and steep for 3-5 minutes, depending upon your tastes.  Remove the tea bag or strain your tea leaves.  Let the tea sit for a moment to cool before drinking it hot, or pour over ice for cold tea.  It is important to clean out your tea pot frequently, as bacteria can develop, and cause an off flavor.   I have a tea cup with a strainer in it.  It works wonderfully for making a large glass of fresh tea.  I have a large tea kettle when I want to make a larger amount of fresh tea. It is a true pleasure to take your first sip of a great tasting glass of iced tea!