Let's talk about Tea!

Tea time is one of my favorite things I do to pamper myself. Preparing a nice cup of tea and sitting down to write a post, read a book, or even watch something to relax. 

Obviously everyone has a certain way they like to prepare their tea, but let me share with you guys what I like to do and what my favorite teas are at the moment. 

To begin with I always use my copper kettle, it is very old school but I love the look and it does the job. I will warn you if you like mine and would like to purchase your own they do discolor, if that is something that would bother just bear that in mind... the flame will create a dark stain on the bottom of the kettle and the exterior will turn greenish since mine is real copper and the water changes the color over time. It does not affect the taste or the safety of your kettle. Another important note is that if you live in a place where the water has high percentage of magnesium ini it then the inside of your copper kettle will start to get red spots which is how the magnesium is processed but once again it does not affect the integrity of your tea or your safety. Just do wash your kettle regularly depending on your usage of it.

If I were doing a proper high tea or afternoon tea with friends then I would take out my porcelain kettle and then transfer a little bit of the boiled water from my copper kettle to the porcelain one. This is an important step if you have a fine bone china kettle or porcelain kettle. Pouring a little bit of the boiled water into the presentation kettle is important to swirl it around to allow the kettle to adjust to the heat so that it doesn't crack. Once you've done a few swirls you can pour the remaining water. As mentioned this is an extra step for high tea, if I were just making a cup for myself I would just pour it into a glass for myself. 

Some of my all time favorite teas is Earl Grey Vanilla, Vanilla Orchid, English Breakfast, and Chamomile Tea, and any sort of white or herbal tea.  

Some of my favorite brands are Twinnings, Wedgwood, and Yoogis. 

Some great treats to have with some tea is something sweet like a macaroon or some sort of pastry. A cucumber sandwich or a biscuit with butter and jam is amazing in the morning. 

Xoxo,

Ivon Auriemma