Wife of a Tea Drinker

Free Your Mind

2010-07-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

The Tea Drinker & I truly enjoyed our vacation to Japan. We needed a break from our routine, and craved taking an adventure together. This getaway got me thinking- the Wife of a Tea Drinker needs a break, too. Therefore, I plan to put up my feet, give my fingers a rest, let my mind run wild, and enjoy the rest of the lazy days of summer.

I will return to blogging on Sunday, September 12th. The hope is to resume with a new look and lots of fresh ideas. I am giddy just thinking about the prospect of taking this break (after nearly two and half years of sharing glimpses of our lives). I trust you will also welcome this break! Reading and living tea, wine, and food each week can take a toll on anyone's psyche and waistline.

In my absence, please remember to drink copious amounts of Drink the Leaf loose leaf teas...and spread the word. Or else, I will come back sooner.

Farmer's Market Bounty

2010-07-18T12:44:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, I blogged (complained) about the effects of jet lag, I had no idea what was in store for us! Five more sleepless nights pushed us to the brink of insanity. The Tea Drinker and the Wife on lack of sleep is not a pretty sight. Stay away. No amount of caffeinated loose leaf tea in the world could cure what ailed us, except a night of uninterrupted sleep! This weekend so far has been restful and we are back in the swing of things: laundry, cleaning, yard work, farmer’s market, grilling, and sorting through our pictures from Japan.

Yesterday's romp through the Napa Valley's Farmer’s Market was great. As the Tea Drinker was at his booth waxing on about Japan, genmaicha and the like, I was out spending his hard earned money. I picked up a variety of fresh veggies and fruit for the week ahead. In Japan, we enjoyed lots of vegetables, most were pickled or preserved. The Japanese term is Tsukemono, meaning “pickled things”. They are served as a side or a snack. Vegetables typically are pickled in any of the following: soy sauce, miso, vinegar, salt, or even sake! We had plenty of pickled things in Japan, ranging from Takuan(daikon), cucumber, cabbage to ginger. My favorite pickled vegetable was Japanese Ginger (Myoga Ginger). It looks like a spring onion, with a slight red hue (photo pictured right). We had it mostly with sashimi. First time we have ever seen it, and will be on the lookout for this treat at Sushi Ran or Morimoto restaurants. Very flavorful, and not as spicy or pungent as the ginger we are used to. A popular belief in Japanese culture is eating too much of Myoga Ginger can make one forgetful—not to worry because you will forget this concern before your next meal, anyways.

With loads of fresh Farmer Market vegetables on hand, we decided to not pickle them this time around (much to the Tea Drinker’s dismay). Obviously, my sense of sarcasm has not waned from eating too much raw fish and pickled things. So, I laid out my bounty before me and selected a variety of treats: yellow squash, zucchini, grape tomatoes, red onions, basil, fennel, orange, red, and green bell peppers. Its summer, so we lit the gas grill, tossed our bounty (minus the tomatoes and basil) in olive oil, sprinkled a bit of salt and pepper, and charred them slightly. My mind wandered to my Dad’s garden (many moons ago) and to summer months of chopping fresh vegetables(cucumbers, peppers, onions and tomatoes) tossing them in apple cider vinegar, with a bit of olive oil, lots of salt and pepper. Tearing off a big slice of Italian bread to dip, soak, and slurp up the juices. Your mouth waters just thinking about it. Bingo! Perfectly charred vegetables came off the grill, chopped into bite size pieces, tossed with red wine vinegar, olive oil, kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper. Crumbled feta, sliced tomatoes, chopped basil were mixed in as a finishing touch. The freshly baked rosemary bread that I bought at the market came out of its bag and we settled into a lovely afternoon at home on our back patio. A tall glass of Drink the Leaf Citrus Rooibos Iced Tea was served. Simply blissful.

Farmer’s Market Salad
Variety of Organic Fresh Vegetables, Grilled or Raw, chopped into bite size pieces
Red Wine Vinegar
Olive Oil
Kosher Salt & Pepper
Favorite Crumbly Cheese
Basil
Crusty Bread
Drink the Leaf Iced Tea

Make it a blissful day, too!

Jet Lag & Japanese Green Tea

2010-07-11T17:28:00.000-07:00

We returned home to Napa yesterday after two glorious weeks of vacation in Japan. Our nine and half hour flight on ANA airlines went smoothly. Tokyo to San Francisco, non-stop. Unfortunately, we were not upgraded this time around, and subsequently wecwere squished into coach seats. We suffered through by watching movies (The Hurt Locker, and Invictus), playing a fierce game of Scrabble (I won), and eating Japanese rice snacks. We tried stretching our aching legs under the seats in front of us, to no avail. We both agreed that we got way more exercise then we expected on this trip. Let’s just say that the Tea Drinker has plenty of footage of me limping up and down the maze of stairs in every subway and train station in Japan.

We started to doze off as we descended to SFO airport. Just our luck! Upon arrival, we were able to whiz through immigration, and make it to our car in less than 30 minutes. The beauty of carry-on luggage! The immigration agent looked at us strangely after inquiring about our length of stay in Japan, and wondered if we indeed had all of our luggage. Yes, sir! We are efficient, and super travelers (see photo above). And, yes we are bit punchy from a combination of little sleep, a serious omega-3 overdose and lack of American junk food.

As soon as we hit Highway 101, we started planning our next American meal. Do not get me wrong- we absolutely loved the food in Japan. The fish is the freshest and most tastiest we have ever had. But, eating raw fish, miso soup and rice day in and day out, made us realize how much we love Mexican food, and cheese! The works, please. Sour cream and guacamole on top, too! We debated on whether or not we would need to make two stops: one for me at Villa Corona for the Taco Salad, and another for the Tea Drinker's favorite Tacos Laplayita's Pastor burrito. In the end, jet lag won, and we walked to the closest Mexican joint. It was delicious. First time we had ingested gooey cheese, salty tortilla chips, hot sauce, and refried beans in almost two weeks. That sets a record somewhere, I'm sure.

I must also admit that on our way home, I started plotting while the Tea Drinker snoozed in the passenger seat next to me. None other than The Wing Stop was on my list. You have heard me go on about this addiction of mine before; I just could not drive by without getting a combo chicken wing order (Original Hot and Parmesan Garlic). And, I wonder why the lovely people of Japan are all slim and trim?!

Jet lag is a strange thing. It's like altitude sickness- sometimes it renders you useless and another time you are left unscathed. We arrived home (5:00am Tokyo time), and felt like we could take on the day. We got right to work: played with the cat, started unpacking, put in a load of laundry, munched on chicken wings, called friends and family, and then hit the wall. We ran to our beds, and settled into a strange slumber for three hours where we dreamt of yen monies, sake, sushi, and subway schedules. I felt the sensation of being on a boat. A combination of a woozy and sinking feeling as I slipped deeper into some unknown bliss. Then, woke up craving Mexican food and a good bottle of wine. Mission accomplished. Then again, felt like I could take on the world only to crash a few hours later and sleep until nearly 1pm the next day.

Today, we are zoned out and fighting sleep at every turn. Trying our hardest not to look at our work inboxes as the email is mounting, and the schedule of next week is looming. Just one more day of rest, and then the sweet memories of Japan will reveal themselves as we settled back into our normal routine.

I am certain that drinking green tea can help minimize jet lag. I have read that of all the amino acids found in green tea (Genmaicha), the most prevalent is L-theanine, which induces relaxation. One should drink loads of green tea (Gyokuro)in the days leading up to flying across time zones, and avoid alcohol and sugary treats. Oops. And upon arrival, drinking green tea can help you stay awake, and focused, and at night can help you relax, and fall asleep. Again, avoid alcohol and fatty foods. Oops. L-theanine increases your serotonin levels, and can help you remain calm, and ease the jet lag jitters. Too bad, we are so darn tired that we can’t muster the energy to dig out our new Japanese green tea finds. It will have to wait until tomorrow or at least until after another nap.

Drink Drink the Leaf loose leaf green tea and reap the health benefits.

Reporting From The Beautiful, Lush Country of Japan

2010-07-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

Today marks the half way point of our stay in Japan. We are looking forward to six more days in this beautiful country. There is much to digest: from our days in the bustling city of Tokyo, to a relaxing day in the countryside of Hakone, and then onto an unbelievable rewarding time spent with a Master Tea blender in Shizuoka ( a premier tea growing region). This morning, we awake excited with anticipation of embarking on another day in Kyoto, the home of many world heritage sites.

Comments, musings, and experiences thus far:
~ Japan is a very clean country. The streets, subways, train stations, hotels, and restaurants are spotless. Someone is always wiping done one surface or another.
~ The Japanese people are extremely courteous, helpful, friendly, and QUIET.
~ Cha(tea) is served at every meal, and is complimentary in all restaurants. What a great concept!
~ Tea bushes line the valley and hillsides of Shizouka- it reminded us of the vineyards back home in Napa Valley. The community was busy with the second harvest. We were able to visit a tea factory, and experience the behind the scenes of production. We were giddy as we took in our surroundings. The smell of fresh picked tea leaves was intoxicating.
~ If you love seafood, you will not be disappointed in this country. However, open your mind and palate to new delicacies. It's eel season, after all.
~ Udon noodles are delicious, and the process of preparing your own treasure bowl is enlightening. All the flavors really pop( Japanese ginger, radish, green onion, sesame seeds, snap peas, and etc). Be prepared to hear lots of loud slurping noises going on around- it's common and a sign of appreciation.
~ Sashimi, and sushi (not an avocado in sight). We have consumed the freshest fish possible. Melts in your mouth. Hamachi, fatty tuna, salmon roe, urchin, unagi, and our personal new discovery: horse mackerel. Stay away from raw octopus. Let's just leave it at that!
~ Don't be afraid to navigate public transportation. Subways, trains, and buses are an adventure in themselves, and you will save money.
- Visit shrines, temples, walk down alleyways, and peer into nooks and crannies- Japan is a maze of culture and history at every turn.
- I love fried food, and Japanese tempura served with my second love(flavored salts) is the bomb.
- Try out the Japanese language. You will be well received, despite a few giggles. Konnichiwa, arigato, and sayonara will do just fine.
- Sake, sake, and sake. Refresh palate with beer. Repeat.

Upon our return, we will post photos, and give a more in- depth look into our experiences into this amazing country. Pour yourself a cup of Drink the Leaf tea- make it a sencha, gyokuro, or genmachia!

Kampai!

** excuse typos- writing on Ipad.

Lift Off! Japan

2010-06-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Ohayo!

At this precise moment, the Tea Drinker and I are settled into our seats on ANA Airlines headed to Japan (at least, I hope we are). Last night, I forwarded a detailed itinerary to our parents confirming that I am indeed neurotic. I went overboard a bit with listing every street corner in Japan, and the closest 'something or other' to it. But, I am a believer that one should know where the closest ice cream shop, bar, restaurant, bathroom, ATM machine, tea shop, historic monument, and subway station is located at all times, in any city. So, I have listed every detail, and I mean every detail.

Here is an excerpt from our itinerary: "TOKYO: Breakfast Ice Cream Treat: Kinozen located in Kagaurazaka-one of the cities popular kanmidokoro. Located just next door to Fujiya, Kinozen. Often has a line out the front door. Their signature dish is a modern mattcha babaloa. The babaloa made from Uji mattcha is delicate with tsubuan (chunky azuki) and whipped cream is a nice ensemble of flavors and textures. The kakigori in the summer of shaved ice colored with flavored syrups are irresistible and offer a despite from the heat and humidity. There is also a selection of items to go, including the mattcha babaloa”.

Not convinced? KYOTO: “Kiyomizudera can be reached from Kyoto Station in about 15 minutes by bus. Take bus number 100 or 206 and get off at Kiyomizu-michi or Gojo-zaka, from where it is a 10-15 minute uphill walk to the temple. Start at Chawan-zaka(Tea pot lane), Kiyomizu-dera Temple(pg 338), then Tainai-meguri, and Sannen-zaka-(many tea houses/cafes), Ninen-zaka(pg 351), then Ishibei-koji( cobbled street) retrace steps continue north, passing Kodai-ji Temple(pg 351) on right up long flight stairs-to T intersection –turn right, keep left, descend into Maruyama-koen( park), see Giant Gion Tree, opposite tree, cross bridge(picnic?), head West(downhill) into Yasaka-jinja shrine to walk to Keihan-shijio station. Or head back to park. "

Certifiable! UJI : “To-kichi Nakamura cafe→Travel time:13:00 - 14:30. Established in 1859, this historic tea shop contains a cafe serving tea soba noodles and matcha sweets. Shop address: :10-1, Uji Uji-City. Access: 1-min walk from JR Uji Station. Tel: 0774-22-7800. Cost: around 1000 yen. Nearby a chicken shop that runs a sake cellar and offers a rich variety of foods that go well with sake. Stored near the entrance to the parking lot is the "Shirakusui" water which is used for sake, and visitors are welcome to try both the water and sake. Refreshing drinks to taste, if we have a have a few moments to spare.”

So, indulge me, and check back often for posts about Drink the Leaf's cultural and tea buying trip to Japan, or at least check in to see if I have finally gone bonkers. There are many highlights to look forward to:

Three days in Tokyo- a bustling city with many restaurants, shops, loads of people, a world-renowned sushi market, and the ever popular “cat” cafes(different building than sushi market).

A full day in the tea region of Shizuoka( producing 45% of Japan's tea) to visit a well known tea estate and meet with tea producers, farmers, and experience the wonderful lure of drinking Japanese green tea, such as Sencha and Genmaicha.

Five days in the mesmerizing Kyoto- a full itinerary of shrines, food markets, monkeys, tea, shrines, more tea, and even more shrines.

A side day trip to the Uji tea region to sip on Gyokuro.

Take the “bullet” to the city of Hiroshima to take in a sobering experience of our world's history. Recharge and rejuvenate with a visit to the neighboring majestic island, Miyajima for the night.

And, finally end our trip back in Tokyo for a day and evening of gastronomical delights.

Peak into the life of a Tea Drinker soon...

Kampai!

Reporting From High Altitude

2010-06-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

Vegas is already a distant memory, as I swirl wine at this year's Aspen Food & Wine Classic. Not a tea leaf in sight; really a shame! The Tea Drinker and I used to live in this town of the rich and famous. We peddled wine by day, and lived for hiking, skiing, and biking on our days off. Then, wine won, healthy lifestyle took a backseat, and we moved to Napa to pursue our passion. Thank goodness, we have since introduced loose leaf tea into our life. Balance is so important in one's life.

The Tea Drinker is home recovering from the World Tea Expo (yes, I am being sarcastic-the altitude brings it out in me). Me, I am tripping down memory lane, and wishing I brought Drink The Leaf teas with me on this trip. This weekend in Aspen is all about wine,food,parties,sunshine,and fresh air. But, I do not feel complete without my tea (and Tea Drinker). Actually, I think I am just dehydrated from all the wine drinking, and goofy from lack of oxygen...

I have nothing more to report, as I have a party to go to-yes, I realize it's 10:00am. That's how we roll in Aspen. A perfect example of precisely why I should have brought tea (and the Tea Drinker) with me. Balance.

Drink tea today, and everyday

**I apologize for any typos-I am posting from my iPad!

World Tea Expo in Las Vegas, Baby!

2010-06-13T18:06:00.000-07:00

Tea by day, wine by night. This past weekend, the Tea Drinker and I attended the World Tea Expo at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Tea and Vegas—a sordid combination. To balance out all this craziness, we added wine, dining and The Beatles Love Cirque du Soleil to the mix. The World Tea Expo brings tea retailers, importers, distributors, specialists, and enthusiasts from as far away as India. Its a three day event packed with educational seminars, a vast trade show, and plenty of opportunities to taste tea from all over the world.

Each morning, we attended educational seminars ranging from exploring various tea regions, brand merchandising and packaging, obtaining organic certification, and tips on tea photography. Filled with knowledge, we headed into the trade show and tackled each row with a vengeance. This expo was our third, and we were much more prepared than in years past. With just over three years of experience as an on-line retailer, we were able to communicate more effectively with the distributors, and importers.

After a long day of slurping down too many teas to be counted, and live to talk about, I found myself with a caffeine buzz unlike any other. The Tea Drinker had to drag me away from some poor unassuming soul who listened patiently as I loudly compared tea tastings to wine tastings. Try drinking wine all day. Tea is a piece of cake. My victim looked at me unconvincingly as my voice was at a high pitch, my sentences were scrambled, and my eyes fluttered nervously back and forth. Like I said, tea and Vegas is a dangerous combination.

Drink the Leaf’s Top Five Highlights:

1) The History of Pu-er- After sitting through an early morning Pu'er seminar, I have a new found appreciation for this tea from the Yunnan province of China. The history behind this tea is rich with culture, folk lore, and tribute. There are two basic types of Pu’er tea: Sheng(raw) or Shou(cooked). Both unique in flavor and aroma. We sampled teas in both forms from a range of harvests dating back to 2004. Each year of aging brings on complexity and depth. Pu'er is also claimed to be loaded with medicinal value. In upcoming months, Drink the Leaf will add additional types of Pu’ers to the website. Have you ever had Pu’er that was wrapped in a tangerine shell or a bamboo stick? Simply amazing. Pu’er is pronounced POO- ARGH. It’s the Pirate’s tea.
2) Two Eggs in A Hole- As we sipped on chilled Sauvignon Blanc at Sage restaurant located in the Aria hotel at City Center, the Tea Drinker inquired out loud, “Did we really just spend $30 dollars on two eggs?”. The bartender overheard, and rushed over to assure us that they were really special eggs. And, they were. Slow poached organic eggs nestled on top of perfectly whipped mashed potatoes served with fried country bread. Two versions were offered: Shaved Black Truffle and Guanciale (Italian bacon). We had one of each. As egg yolk dripped off our chins, we proclaimed these the best damn eggs we ever had. If you go to Sage, and order this, be sure to drink down a Vegas-style glass of wine beforehand, it really does help your psyche when the bill arrives.
3) Learning Mandarin- We were delighted to take part in an impromptu teaching session during the trade show. We huddled around our brilliant instructor as he took us through the basic pronunciation of Mandarin. We learned various tea terms such as suan, tian, ku, la, zian, shou, dan, cun, yan, dao xiang, he xiang, shan cha, and you ji zheng ming shu. Any questions? Our instructor beamed as we bellowed out each word precisely. We mimicked him like good little parrots, feeling confident as spectators wandered by, envious of our knowledge. Then, the instructor pointed us in the direction of the Chinese tea farmers booths, and gave us homework. Go to them, converse with them. The Tea Drinker and I took one look at each other and ran the other way!
4) Dinner at Michael Mina- The first course set the tone: Caviar Parfait. Smoked salmon and Osetra caviar set on top of a potato cake. And, not just your ordinary potato cake. We were doomed, as course after course was brought to us. Check out the menu and the highlighted wine for the evening. Nothing short of spectacular. Work, work, work.
5) Shizuoka Tea Growing Region- We were able to meet the owners of two highly regarded Japanese tea estates, Maru Matu and Sugimoto. We scheduled tours of their farms for our upcoming trip to Japan. How exciting! We hope to bring you loose leaf tea from these two estates in the near future.

**If you head to Vegas, remember to hydrate with tea and water. Have fun, and be safe.

Have Tea, Will Travel

2010-06-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

“Sundays be gone”. I banish you from my life. In taking a look at my schedule for the next month or so, I realized that I will be out of town every weekend until mid-July. Now, this really mucks up my Sunday blogging schedule, and not to mention my 4pm Hendricks Gin-n-tonic down time. I enjoy getting up early on Sunday mornings, bellowing “caffeine” at the top of my lungs, as the Tea Drinker happily brings me a steaming cup of Hong Tao Mao Feng or the like. Then, I jump right into to rapidly typing away on my laptop. Ah, the good life.

What is on my calendar that brings me away from home on summer weekends for the next 30 days or so? Inquiring minds want to know. The World Tea Expo in Vegas, Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, CO, and a two week Japan cultural and tea buying trip, including visits to Tokyo, Shizuoka, Kyoto, Uji, and Hiroshima. Well, as you can see, it’s a very tea focused month. Okay, maybe not the Aspen part, but a Wife of Tea Drinker needs to get out once in a while, and have some fun.

I look forward to bringing exciting stories to you from each of these diverse cities in the upcoming weeks. Guaranteed there will be many memorable meals consumed, loose leaf tea and wine libations slurped down in copious amounts, loads of educational moments, and plenty of Advil, on hand. But, this Sunday, I don’t have time to share stories. I am off to work for a day of “cooking and wine-ing”. I recommend that you start each day with loose leaf tea. It will take you to faraway places in mind, body, and spirit (airfare, not included).

The Ultimate Craving for Peppermint Tea

2010-05-30T13:05:00.001-07:00

Let’s just say, I am on another health kick. With my boot camp passion firmly in place, I am working on adding stretching and flexibility to my agenda. I can hardly touch my toes, unless there is a potato chip laid out before me or a slice of pizza from Oenotri. This morning, I headed out the door to attend a local Bikram Yoga class. You may remember my attempt at this a couple of years back, an amusing situation where my dear husband thought I was going to “burping yoga”.

This morning's sweat session lasted for ninety minutes and was filled with 26 traditional postures. I am happy to report that I survived(minus being a bit dehydrated and left feeling like a “salt lick”). Right after class, the strangest thing happened--I began craving peppermint tea. One would think that water, a nap, and carbohydrates would be first on my list. Thank goodness, I am married to the Tea Drinker and can have Peppermint loose leaf tea at will. This craving got me musing about how one’s body speaks to you about what its lacking. I decided to take this opportunity (while recovering on the couch) to research the health benefits of drinking peppermint tea. Lo and behold, I found out that this herb is one healthy treat.

First up, you have to like the flavor of peppermint. It’s very distinctive. I have to admit it was hard to focus as my mind kept wandering back to the holidays where I consumed my fair share of peppermint bark from the Vintage Sweet Shoppe. I digress; back to health. In my research, I discovered that peppermint(menthe piperata) is a natural hybrid of spearmint, and watermint. Peppermint is unique in that it contains a powerful therapeutic ingredient, called menthol. This natural ingredient brings loads of benefits through the volatile oil contained in the leaves.

Let’s get healthy!

Check out these great benefits of drinking peppermint tea.
• Treats irritable bowel syndrome.
• Helps ease nausea, and upset stomachs.
• Strengthens the immune system- fights cold and flu.
• Relieves stomach and menstrual cramps.
• Contains high amounts of calcium, Vitamin B, and potassium.
• Improves digestion, and reduces heartburn. Enjoy a cup right after you eat.
• Dissolves gallstones.
• Great as a natural breath freshener. Smooch. Smooch.
• Alleviates muscle aches, headaches and chronic pain.
• Clears congestion, helps with allergies, and colds.
• Combats stress. Sign me up!
• It’s caffeine free, refreshing, and hydrating!

Now, I completely understand why my body was screaming for peppermint tea! Drink the Leaf offers peppermint tea that is organically grown in Washington. You can serve this herbal beverage hot or cold. I actually prefer drinking it at room temperature.

Now I am so darn relaxed, that I need a pick me up. I better move onto Keemun Hao Ya A. I still have a lot to get done today!

** To learn more about the benefits of Bikram Yoga. Click here.

Napa Valley's Pearl

2010-05-23T16:55:00.000-07:00

Every town in America should have an eatery like Pearl Restaurant. A place where you can go, and they know you by name. They know your likes, dislikes (no red meat, please), and your favorite spot to sit (at the bar). The Tea Drinker and I are lucky enough to have this gem of a restaurant just blocks away from where we live in Napa. Last night, we strolled down to Pearl, and saddled up to the kitchen bar, and ordered up some of our most coveted dishes. We started with a bottle of our house Chardonnay and slurped down oysters roasted with salsa verde and feta cheese. Delicious. It was the perfect way to wrap up a busy day at the Farmer’s Market, followed by laundry, cleaning, laundry again, and Japan research.

Nickie and Peter Zeller, the lovely owners, are always welcoming, and knowledgeable about the latest news in the neighborhood. They are the hardest working couple we know (besides yours truly and the Tea Drinker). Head Chef Jose Guzman is an unassuming guy, who has a gentle smile, and twinkle in his eye. I admit I am enamored with the food that he puts out, and the Tea Drinker would love a job there just so that he can partake in the best employee meals that we have ever witnessed. On the walk down to the restaurant, I kept rambling on about whether or not it was soft shell crab season, yet. The pan-fried panko crusted soft shell crab sandwich topped with avocado, and chipotle aioli (applewood bacon optional) on a ABC bakery’s potato bun is the best around, It's worthy of pushing someone off a bar stool to get the last order, if needed. The Tea Drinker feels the same way about the Guerrero corn on the cob. The corn is grilled, then rolled in a cotija cheese and sour cream chili mixture, and finished with a slice of fresh lime. Jackpot! The soft shell crab was in, but it was too early for the corn. Thank god, June is just around the corner. Another favorite is Jose’s Chicken Verde served with a side of creamy polenta, and steamed vegetables. However, last night the Tea Drinker opted for the Apple Dijon Brined Pork Chop, double thick, bone-in served with mashers and steamed vegetables. It’s important to have your veggies every day...

We celebrate this treasure called Pearl, and Nickie and Peter who make it happen every day! Before you start writing in and demanding the corn recipe, I have provided it below. June is just weeks away- dig out the Iced Tea Pitcher, your favorite Drink the Leaf blend (recently received rave reviews), or the makings for a gin-n-tonic. Get ready, set, go! Grill on.

Guerrero Style Grilled Corn on the Cob
This is a great dish for the BBQ. Grill the corn around the edges of the grill, while cooking meat, chicken, fish or whatever in the middle.
• 12 ears of corn, shucked & cleaned of all silk & steams cut
• 1 cup sour cream (can be nonfat)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (can be nonfat)
• 1/2 tsp chili arbol molida (ground fine) if unavailable
ground buy whole dry chili arbol & grind in mortar or
coffee grinder*
• 1/2 tsp chili pequin molida (ground fine) same as above*
• 1/2 pound cotija cheese grated fine (like dry Italian cheese)*
• 4 limes cut in wedges
Prepare ahead:
• Make wood or charcoal fire. While fire is getting ready blanch corn in boiling water for 3 minutes. Remove to
colander & set aside.
• Can be done 4 hours ahead: whip the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili pequin & chile arbol together until smooth.
Set aside.
• Brush blanched corn lightly w/ vegetable, canola or olive oil, place on grill & keep turning until brown all over. Remove from grill & brush with sour cream, mayonnaise, chili mixture & dust w/ grated cotija cheese.
• Put on skewers if you choose or use your hands.
• Serve w/ lime wedges.
*can be found in Mexican markets (in Napa at Morenita Market on Jefferson across from Napa High, very reasonable price on cotija cheese & dry chilis) or in the Mexican section
of most super markets.
Other notes:
-if you are not grilling outside you can brown the blanched corn on the burners of a gas stove or in a grill pan.
- grate the cheese 4 hours ahead and spread it on a sheet pan to dry. That makes it easier to dust it onto the corn.
** recipe provided by Pearl Restaurant

Cycle for Tea

2010-05-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

My blog has a flat tire. Its run out of air, speed, and wind. Wait- that’s me. A short posting today, as I am headed to Auburn, CA to watch a portion of the first stage of Tour of California. This road race has become the largest cycling event in America. The ride is divided into eight challenging courses, that begins in Nevada City and ends in Southern California on the 23rd of May. Actually a portion of this race will ride right through Napa, and whiz by my “home away from home”, where I will be watching with other spectators. There is also a non-profit component to this race, which is a nice touch. The bio technology company, Amgen, is the primary sponsor. This company focuses on the development of innovative medicines that are made available to treat cancer. “Breakaway from Cancer” is another leg to the race sponsorship bringing awareness to the resources available to cancer patients.

Are you eager to know if I am an avid cyclist? Well, I'm not. I have tooled around a few times in my life, but never have been a cyclist. I have always admired and marveled at the likes of Lance and Levi, but never felt the urge to jump on a road bike. The thought of taking on the four wheels of this world(whose drivers have one ear to a cell phone ) sends chills down my spine. Instead, I recenlty purchased a town cruiser(see photo above) that takes me to the grocery store and back via less traveled roads.

However, I am sure after today’s experience, I will be bugging the Tea Drinker to join me in my new passion, road biking. I will wake up every day and do deep knee bends, wear lots of padding on my rear end, don a helmet, and bike to work. I will utter strange words, and rattle on about sprints, time trials, road rash, and wheelsuckers. I will have Iced Herbal Masala Chai in my water bottle and feel the wind at my back. Then, I will snap out of it, and remember that I am totally out of steam, and can’t take on another hobby. But, I could be convinced...

A Flurry of Love on Mother's Day

2010-05-09T12:21:00.001-07:00

Reporting from my hometown of Buffalo, NY where the wind is howling, snowflakes are in the air, and the temperature is a chilly 38 degrees. I presume Western New York did not receive the memo, “April showers, bring May flowers”. In any case, there is plenty of food, wine and Drink the Leaf loose leaf teas to keep us cozy. Today, of course, is Mother’s Day. I would like to take this moment to wish all the fabulous mothers out there, who are slaying dragons on a daily basis, a wonderful time with their families (or not). You are admired, loved, and revered. We salute you. Kick off your shoes, grab a book, and steep yourself a steaming cup of brew. Better yet, have someone else do it for you.

I am a big believer in worshipping your Mommy. Who else would put up with you your whole life-- the good, the bad and the ugly? Um, thanks again, Mom. So, what to do for your Mom on this momentous day? As my Mom put it, all she wants to do on her special day (which also happens to be her birthday) is to DO NOTHING. Actually, she made some off the wall comment about “applying Velcro to her backside and adhering herself to the couch”. Ah, the pleasure of nothingness for a day. It recharges the soul. Mom, I grant you this wish, and nothing but all my love! Oh, and, Mom, could you please move over on the couch? I am the proud mother of Little One, after all. Parents these days…

Love you oodles Mom, thanks for your unwavering support, love and friendship. On the menu today is Egg & Sausage Bread Pudding with a Spring Salad, and a nice chilled glass of one of your most coveted Chardonnays. Bon Appétit !

This is a delicious savory bread pudding that I have served on Christmas morning in the past. I thought it would be fitting for Mother’s Day in Buffalo.

Grocery List:
4 TBSP Butter, unsalted
1 cup chopped onions
¼ cup finely chopped green bell peppers
¼ cup finely chopped red bell peppers
¾ tsp. kosher salt
¼ tsp freshly ground pepper
2 tsp. minced garlic
1 TBSP. chopped Italian Parsley
6oz Bacon

6oz Sausage(I used a combination of Smoked Chicken Andouille and Italian Turkey)
8 Eggs
3 cups of Milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 ¼ tsp Creole Seasoning (Essence!Bam!)
8 cups of Italian Bread, chopped in 1" cubes ( leave out the night before)
2 cups of Grated Cheese ( such as Gouda or Fontina)
½ cup dry bread crumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan
2 TBSP of melted butter

Get to Work:
1) Preheat Oven to 350 degrees. Grease a baking dish(9 x 13”) with 1 TBSP butter.
2) Melt 2 tsp of butter over med- heat in medium skillet. Add onions, bell peppers, pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook until soft.
3) Add garlic- cook until fragrant. Add parsley- stir and remove from heat.
4) In another skillet- Melt 1 tsp. butter, over medium heat. Add bacon, cook, drain on paper towels. Add sausage, cook until browned, remove and drain on paper towels. Let cool.
5) In large mixing bowl, beat eggs. Add milk, cream, 1 tsp of seasoning, ½ tsp of salt, and pinch of black pepper. Whisk to combine. Add bread cubes, and let sit for 5 minutes. Add bacon, sausage, onion and pepper mixtures, and cheese. Stir to combine. Pour entire mixture into baking dish. Cover with foil. Bake for 50 minutes.
6) Combine bread crumbs, Parmesan, remaining 1/2 tsp of seasoning, and melted butter. Spread mixture evenly on pudding. Put back in oven, uncovered, for an additional 2o minutes, until down in the middle.

7) Enjoy, then have someone else clean up the kitchen, and put away the dishes.

** recipe adapted from Emeril Lagasse/foodnetwork

Serve with a mixed greens spring salad tossed in a light dressing.

Fava Bean Tragedy at Napa Farmer's Market

2010-05-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

The Farmer’s market season has begun in Napa Valley. This means that from now until the end of October, you will find the Tea Drinker at Drink the Leaf’s booth each Tuesday and Saturday. Typically, in the beginning of the season, the market starts off slow both in foot traffic and vendors, and then ramps up(no pun, intended!) by mid-June. Yesterday, it was great to visit with the other vendors and our customers. We gabbed about the winter, complimented each other’s new hairstyles, and praised the good weather. At Drink the Leaf, we started this year’s market off by sampling our delightful Ceylon Black, and had fourteen teas available for sale. No surprise, the teas were a hit.

The Farmer’s Market this year is located in the parking lot of the now defunct Copia, which is next door to the Oxbow Public Market. We prefer this new location to last year, however, there is quite a bit of road construction going on nearby. Plan ahead, as you have to zigzag your way around the back streets to get to the market. The good news is that you will pass by GOTT’s Roadside 'Tray Gourmet', and if you are exhausted, cranky or famished you can always stop in for a mint chip milkshake, Ahi tuna burger, and an order of sweet potato fries, to quell your anxiety. It works for me every time.

While the Tea Drinker was chatting with customers and inquiring about their tea drinking habits, I was out and about sampling the goods. I tried an addictive garlic and Parmesan spread from the Glop. This new vendor at the market was very popular; the interesting name and cool packaging brought people over, and they hovered for samples, and plopped down money for purchases. Glop hit the mark, and I was off. I ambled over to Humble Beginnings and A nnie the Baker(her real name is Annie Baker-no joshing). These two great vendors offer up tasty jams, jellies and homemade cookies. Last year, we were situated between them; I suspect we must have been too rowdy, since they split us up this time around. As always, Annie the Baker sold out of her delicious dough-like cookies. It’s not uncommon to walk by her booth, and hear someone pleading, “But, I need me some of those Toffee Milk Chocolate Chip cookies!!”. Oh, wait, that was me. But, seriously, do not be surprised when you find yourself pleading with her, too.

By the time I got to the produce section, it was slim pickings. Darn it, because I was craving fava beans, and they were sold out. The nice lady told me that they had a huge pile of them at opening, the crowd got unruly, people were grabbing and pushing, and the beans were gone within minutes. Fava beans tend to bring out crazy behavior in people, every time. I cruised back to check on the Tea Drinker and he was trading Jasmine Pearl and Blood Orange black for roasted garlic hummus dip and pita chips from, The Hummus Guy. That’s why I love my husband, always thinking about our next meal.

Speaking of food, my stomach was growling as the market came to a close. So, being the great wife that I am, I offered to run over to the Oxbow and pick us up lunch from Pica Pica Maize Kitchen. We packed up the truck and headed home and enjoyed our classic Venezuelan meal on the patio. While snacking on a sweet corn pancake filled with shredded chicken and cheddar cheese, I proceed to tell my husband my strategy for the next market. I will be damned if I let someone else snag those fava beans again. He nodded and listened patiently, and then reminded me that my duties as a wife of a tea drinker included not causing waves at the market. Yes, dear.

Stop by the farmer’s market this week, the Tea Drinker will be on hand with great gift ideas for Mother’s day. Check out our fancy new gift tins of loose leaf tea paired with Botanical Bakery “Ginger Squared” shortbread cookies. Treat your Mom right.

Drink the Leaf Iced Tea at Top Napa Restaurant

2010-04-25T14:59:00.001-07:00

I am proud to announce that my husband, the Tea Drinker, has landed his first restaurant account in the Napa Valley. Recently the Rutherford Grill made the decision to offer Drink the Leaf’s iced tea blend to their customers. Hip, hip, hooray! This buzz of a restaurant is a staple in the valley for tourists and locals, alike. Its located on the corner of HWY 29 and Rutherford Cross Road in the town of Rutherford: population 525. The Grill serves up delicious comfort food, such as barbeque pork ribs, rotisserie chicken, and jalapeno corn bread, to loads of hungry people, and probably doubles the town's population on any given day.

The General Manager, Don, is a smart man, and he is my hero. By offering Drink the Leaf, he has helped narrow the gap between my two passions: tea and wine. Most Fridays at 11:45am(when I am not traveling) you can find me at the Rutherford Grill bar enjoying a veggie burger with coleslaw or the Sashimi Ahi tuna salad along with a big glass of my favorite wine. Thankfully, now I can add Iced Tea to my lunch diet! What a sigh of relief.

Drink tea.Drink wine. Eat well.

Loose Leaf Tea spotted in Wine Country

2010-04-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

Wine, oysters, sausages, lamb chops, bacon, salumi, cheese, bread and loose leaf tea equals happiness. Yesterday, loads of cheerful hungry and thirsty people descended upon the small town of Forestville, CA. They were there to sample the delicious wines of Wind Gap winery accompanied by tasty treats from local purveyors, including yours truly, Drink the Leaf. Our dear friends, Pam and Pax Mahle, who own and operate Wind Gap, invited the Tea Drinker to participate in their Spring Awakening release event(Pam and Pax are also the cool cats that invited us to the Pat Benatar concert last summer). Their winery is located in a quaint building with lots of character, just one street off the main drag. Forestville is a storybook town – it has one gas station, a bar, a bakery, a post office, a couple of restaurants, a stream of bicyclists, and a winery. What more do you need in life?

The Spring Awakening was a huge success. Wind Gap hosted a “farmer’s market style” event bringing together like-minded folks offering high quality products. I personally thought it was a brilliant idea, taking a traditional wine tasting and turning it into something more interesting, and rewarding. It’s a win-win situation to invite your customers to learn more about other local businesses; it certainly adds extra value. As a consumer who enjoys buying and supporting local companies, I was thrilled that the Tea Drinker was invited to join the festivities. It was a wonderful sight to watch a hundred or so people swirling, sipping, snacking and mingling.

Fully charged with a cup of brew in my system , I was ready to tackle the day. Here are a few highlights:

• Oysters from Hog Island Farms paired with 2009 Trousseau Gris, Russian River Valley, a delightful bright white wine that is bone dry with loads of flavor. “Ripe peaches dipped in honey”, as described on their website, by winemaker, Pax. Slurp. Slurp. Trousseau Gris is a mutation of the red grape, Trousseau originated in the Jura region of France.

• The 2008 Chardonnay, “Yuen”, a lovely wine that is a blend of two touted central coast vineyards, James Berry and Brosseau. “Yuen” is the Chinese word meaning “a connection that was meant to be”. I definitely have some Yuen for this wine. Run, don’t walk. Don't forget to plan ahead and have the rich, buttery Fiscalini Farmstead Cheddar on hand. And, maybe you could beg Forestville's own Nightingale Breads to ship you one of their freshly baked loaves. Their multi-grain is the best I have ever had.

• Bacon and wine is a marriage made in heaven. That’s what I am told, anyways. My girlfriend definitely seemed to be enjoying the bacon from Black Pig Meat Company, while we sipped on the 2007 Syrah, Griffin's Lair, from Sonoma Coast.

All in all, it was a wonderful day spent with new and old friends. The Tea Drinker worked hard, but he was content pouring his favorite teas for the Wind Gap customers. Also, I kept him supplied him with lamb chops right off the grill. I ended my wine tasting day with a tall glass of refreshing (hydrating) Iced Citrus Rooibos. Just another day in the life of the Tea Drinker and his silly wine-drinking wife... tootles, ta-ta, until next time.

Sweet Dreams Tokyo!

2010-04-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

Most of my free time is spent planning our upcoming summer vacation to Japan. It’s the last thought in my head as I drift off to sleep, and the first thing I think about when I wake up. Just this week, I announced to the Tea Drinker, “You will never believe the dream I had last night!”. He yawned, “Let me guess, was it about Japan?" As I dragged myself to the shower I explained, "I know, I know, here I go again. But in last night’s dream we were at the finale of American Idol, in Tokyo! We had front row seats--how cool is that?" The Tea Drinker sighed (and I think he was rolling his eyes, but I was heading to the bathroom). “And," I continued with a touch of petulance, "Simon winked at me.” The Tea Drinker’s response: “How about we cut back on your caffeine and laptop intake?”

I love planning and I love to travel. This trip will bring all the best elements together: an exotic, faraway place; amazing cuisine; tasty libations; world-renowned tea regions; culture; and rich history. Each night I arm myself with The Lonely Planet, DK Eyewitness and my laptop. I am the ultimate hot date. I've learned so much about Japan by reading various travel blogs (beginning with how to navigate Narita Airport) and cruising my favorite travel portal: http://www.tripadvisor.com/, which has provided me with a wealth of scintillating information (such as how to use the loo). I can’t imagine planning our itinerary without the use of these tools. I am officially my own travel agent. Two years ago, I spent hours and hours poring over Trip Advisor, planning our excursion to China. I found our oasis getaway in the Hangzhou tea region by reading someone else’s travel blog. There is so much information to be had, and I am ready to tap into it. Whether you are traveling to Los Angeles or Laos, you will not be disappointed if you utilize the Internet, and the power and vibrancy of someone else’s personal account.

In June we will be heading to Japan for twelve days. I have read over and over that that the early summer months mark the rainy season and that it will be hot and humid. Sounds like perfect traveling conditions to me. This is where Japanese beer will come into the picture. Rain or shine, we'll have loads of fun and a rich and rewarding experience. As of my last sign off from the Internet, our itinerary is as follows: Tokyo, Hakone, Shizuoka, Kyoto, Uji, Hiroshima, Miyajima, and then back to Tokyo before we head home. Many cultural sites are on the agenda; countless noodle and sushi restaurants are staked out; and we'll enjoy two separate field trips to Japan’s most well-known tea regions (featuring gyokuro and sencha). All will be accomplished with various train rides in between. If you have been to Japan or know someone who has, feel free to pipe in and leave a comment on this blog. We would love to hear your recommendations or suggestions on the “must see, must do, must eat, must drink” features of this fabulous and intriguing country.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

We wish you a fun-filled time with family and friends on this Easter holiday.

We are snuggled up by our fireplace enjoying this day of rest and new beginnings. The kettle is on as we eagerly anticipate slurping down copious amounts of loose leaf tea. Oh, and there may be a Vintage Sweet Shoppe chocolate bunny or two awaiting our introduction.

Peace, love and happiness…

Tea Drinker & Wife of Tea Drinker

Breakie in Wine Country

2010-03-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air, and I am hungry. My gurgling and growling stomach woke me up bright and early this morning. I never used to wake up hungry, but lately it’s the first thing on my agenda, right after caffeine. Where to go in the beautiful Napa Valley? We decided to try Fremont Diner located on Highway 121 in the Carneros. As stated in previous posts, the Tea Drinker and I are fans of going out to breakfast. Okay, we admit it, we are fans of eating. Period. Our favorite local breakfast joint, Boon Fly Café (also located in Carneros), is where we usually go, and gobble down our stand-by orders of “eggs in a hole” and "Green Eggs & Ham”. Today, however, we decided to venture a bit further down the road, and give the Fremont Diner a try.

This diner used to be named Babe’s, a sort of run down place, where they served up up shakes, burgers, and fries. We went there a few times, and snuck home afraid we would be caught with grease dripping down our chins. The new owners of this diner have done wonders with the ambiance, and created a cozy, comfortable southern-style restaurant nestled in wine country(this blog has great photos). As you approach the Fremont Diner, you feel as though you stumbled upon a secret treasure; it fits in nicely amongst the vineyards and cow pastures.

A small building with a screen door welcomes you to step right up to the window counter(outlined with a chalkboard menu) to place your order. While you wait in line, there is plenty to look at- a lot of nice touches that make a statement about thought, care, and supporting local goodies. The counter is lined with homemade pastries, jellies, and preserves. We passed this time around, but plan to come back and sample them soon. Sit at the brushed steel counter( there are about four stools) and view the open kitchen. There are plenty of magazines and newspapers to read, or just enjoy your meal and watch the action. We opted for one of the antique tables, and watched the many hungry souls enjoying their morning. Looking around I assumed that almost everyone in the restaurant was on a getaway weekend to the wine country. They looked happy as they filled up on biscuits and gravy before heading out for another day of sampling wines or fighting the traffic back to San Francisco. Either way they looked content. The restaurant also has picnic tables out back, if you want to take in the fresh air.

The menu supports many local farmers and companies. It seems to be their motto. On the breakfast menu choices range from Shrimp & Grits, Black Pepper Brisket Hash, French Toast, Ricotta Pancakes, and an Egg breakfast. I attempted to order the Rancho Gordo yellow eyed beans, with sage and chili salt, and a fried egg on top. Alas, they were sold out. The man in charge suggested that I ordered the grits(stating, "they will be the best I will ever have"),with a fried egg and grilled asparagus stalks. Sold to the highest bidder! I thought the grits were pretty darn good, but then the Tea Drinker reminded me about the shrimp and grits that we had at brunch one year after the Atlanta High Museum Wine Auction. They were made by Chef Rathbun; I really should reach out for him and get that recipe. But, I will state that the fried egg in this dish was perfectly cooked, and probably the freshest tasting egg I have ever had. Absolutely delicious. Oh, and what did my lovely husband order? The Tea Drinker loves breakfast sandwiches. Eggs, Meat , Cheese, Bread. No need to elaborate here!

Now onto the rest of our day, where we will be tasting lots of loose leaf teas(Assams and Ceylons), and then heading out for a bike ride. Put a spring in your step with fresh ingredients at every meal, and support your local purveyors. Now what’s for lunch?

Run Tea Drinker, Run!

2010-03-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

A picture is worth a thousand words. Check out the photo of me about ready to cross the finish line at this year’s Carneros Vineyard 10K Run, which benefits the Carneros Volunteer Fire Department -Station 10. At that precise moment, I was happy, proud, and feeling great. I was also extremely proud of my fellow runner friends(see below). The Tea Drinker was there to cheer us on and document our success. He is my number one cheerleader without the pom poms. My husband greeted me bright and early this morning with an energizing snack of peanut butter on whole wheat toast, and a tall cup of one of my all-time favorite teas, Red Peony. Then came the pep talk with words of encouragement, such as, “Think of that glass of wine you will be handed once you cross the finish line(we are in Napa Valley, after all), and the pancake breakfast prepared by fireman”. He was right, I believe I have run more than 6.2 miles before for a glass of wine.

Before the race, I stretched, foam rolled(a tortuous boot camp apparatus), sipped on loose leaf tea, and visualized crossing the finish line. And what a vision it was: a race set in the heart of Carneros (with a perfect running temperature of a cool 48 degrees) surrounded by rolling hills filled with mustard and grapevines. As you can see, I proudly wore my Napa Valley Adventure Boot Camp t-shirt. I would not have attempted this run without the support and encouragement of my workout mentors, and friends. They got me here today, and continue to help me accomplish my goals. Hooray for Boot Camp! Here I go again…gushing about Boot Camp.

I am now back home still wearing my race bib number while drinking Clouds & Mist. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate! Drink loose leaf tea and let your imagination run wild.

Happy Birthday Tea Drinker!

2010-03-14T12:53:00.000-07:00

It’s the Tea Drinker’s birthday week! This tradition of celebrating for a week was implemented by yours truly many years ago. The rules are simple. The "birthday person" chooses when their special week begins and it ends seven days later( it must include the actual birth date). Being your birthday you get to choose the lucky recipient to coordinate and organize your every whim. This person is usually a spouse, significant other, or a best friend (who else would put up with this type of behavior?). Sound fun? Well, it can be, if it is your birthday.

How does one officially kick off the birthday week? Believe me, you will know exactly when the festivities begin. For example, our week began with something like this: one early morning the Tea Drinker rolled over and proclaimed, “Honey, can you get me a cup of tea?” I replied, “I am in the middle of something-sleeping.”. The Tea Drinker's rebuttal, “Birthday week”. Simple, no arguments. I lose. He wins. Let the games begin.

The key to a successful birthday week is to mix it up. Keep your partner in suspense. Food, wine, tea, exercise, fun activities, and etc. all sound like a normal week for us. But, this is where you are wrong. Only one person is deciding this agenda. For example, are you always the one to take out the garbage? Clean the kitty litter box? Feed the fish? Not this week, it’s your birthday. Are you craving Mexican food one night and barbeque the other? No problem. What can I get you? I think you get the picture.

The Tea Drinker’s birthday week involved many things that we both enjoy: going out to eat, drinking great wine, planning our upcoming trip to Japan, and a plethora of tea tastings for Drink the Leaf . We accomplished all of this without any disagreements. Of course, what's to argue about when it's your birthday week! Give it a try. Your loved one will thank you. The key is to remember to be very careful in what you ask for during your week, because "birthday paybacks" can be hell. Since, this birthday week is not our first rodeo, things are going smoothly.

Well, I have to run. The Tea Drinker has an itch, and I have to scratch it.

Happy Birthday, Honey! Lots of Love. XOXO

Irasshaimase!

2010-03-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

Gyokuro, Sencha, Genmaicha, Matcha, and Kukicha. Again. Gyokuro, Sencha, Genmaicha, Matcha, and Kukicha. The Tea Drinker repeatedly took me through these steps today. He urged me to study, memorize, steep, taste, and savor the flavors of Japanese green teas. He begged me to put down my habitual cup of caffeine-loaded black loose leaf tea, and open my eyes to the wonders of the world. I fretted. What would the toned down version of me look like? Calm and serene ? Impossible. I promised to drag myself out of this rut to drink more Oolongs, White tea, even the Herbal variety, but venture more into green tea? The Tea Drinker was putting his foot down, and told me, “Today, you begin a new adventure: Japanese Green Teas. Get your passport ready”.

Japanese Green Tea 101:
Tea drinking was brought to Japan from China around the 9th century, and was destined to be forever immersed in this culture. The highest quality Japanese green teas tend to come from the Yame region of Fukuoka Prefecture and the Uji region of Kyoto. Japanese teas, like all teas, are made from the lovely coveted camellia sinensis plant. Green teas are unique in that they are “un-oxidized” or undergo minimal oxidation. In Japan, tea leaves are steamed, as opposed to being tossed in a hot pan(the process in China). Steaming the leaves produces teas that are fresh and delicate. They tend to be bright green in color, complex in flavor with aromas of fresh cut grass and toasted nuts. Overall, green tea is low to moderate caffeine(sigh), very full of antioxidants, and receives the most recognition for its health benefits. I guess I could use the extra health boost.

Before steeping, be sure to have the water temperature just right, as you do not want to scald those poor little teas leaves. Yes, Master Tea Drinker.

Sencha- A common tea in Japan, and very popular worldwide. Made from leaves that are exposed to direct sunlight, harvested, steamed then rolled. The resulting tea has a natural sweetness, and is packed with fresh herbal flavors. Try the Kawane -it brews a beautiful dark forest green liqueur, has vibrant aromas of fresh cut grass, nuts, and Nori seaweed. It will bring spring right to your front door.

Asahina Gyokuro- A premium Sencha using only new shoots of the leaves that are cultivated in the shade before harvest. “Gyokuro” refers to the color of the infusion(“jewel dew”). This tea is of the highest quality. The leaves are almost aqua-green in color with intriguing aromas: a hint of citrus and fresh cut grass, with a mild flowery note. On the palate it's smooth with a natural sweetness. Flavors of toasted hazelnut or Nori seaweed comes to mind. I was so wrapped up in the sensory overload of this tea that my most cherished black tea almost became a distant memory.

Genmaicha- Enter: Sencha or Bancha green tea combined with popped corn and roasted rice. This tea was historically consumed by the less fortunate of Japan. However, today its enjoyed by all facets of society, and considered to be quite chic. “Popcorn” tea is just not for Friday night anymore. Treat yourself anytime of the day. It’s slightly grassy and nutty, like me.

Next week: Matcha, the powdered green tea essential in Japanese tea ceremonies and Kukicha, a tea made from twigs, stalks and stems. Hmm.. I may have to brew a strong cup of Keemun to get me through this next chapter.

Venture out in life. Do I see a trip to Japan in my near future? Hai!

No Bones About- Tea Drinker Is In Love

2010-02-28T08:18:00.000-08:00

No bones about it, hands down, the Tea Drinker was a happy camper yesterday after enjoying a half rack of dry rubbed brown sugar ribs. All this excitement took place at 12 Bones Smokehouse located in Asheville, NC. The Tea Drinker and I were in town for a new festival that is just getting off the ground(benefiting a great cause, The Frankie Lemmon Foundation). The city of Asheville is packed with plenty of good eats, including a plethora of barbeque joints. If you recall, my husband spent many Sundays this past summer perfecting the ultimate rib. Hours were whittled away on spice rubs, sauce concoctions, and achieving the perfect grill temperature. You can imagine what a tough decision it was to determine which restaurant to partake in amongst the many. Of course, I turned to Twitter, and posted an inquiry on @wifeteadrinker, and was welcomed with a flurry of responses. Viola! 12 Bones was on our radar.

12 Bones is privately owned, and the owners were on site. As someone put it to me yesterday, this restaurant has “banker’s hours”. Only open for lunch Monday through Friday, and Saturday’s at their Arden, NC location. We went to the Arden’s location which is situated in an old gas station. No wonder they keep these hours—I would too, if I had a line out the door day in and day out. The menu was easy to navigate: ribs, pulled pork and chicken, smoked turkey, with choices of sides: macaroni and cheese, jalapeno grits, baked beans, collard greens, slaw, mashed sweet potatoes, and etc. All served up on a tin platter. Customers can choose from a variety of sauces ranging from jalapeno, vinegar, mustard, and traditional barbeque tomato sauce. To heck with it, we brought all of them to the table.

I settled for the Smoked Turkey on Texas Toast with brie, and pesto mayonnaise. Let it be known right here and now-- I will be forever destined to think about and crave this tasty sandwich until I return. From the first bite, I knew I was doomed. It was that good. The turkey was very moist, and rubbed with a spice that was intoxicating. The pesto mayonnaise was the kicker, and the brie cheese was deliciously evil. It made me feel like I was getting away with something. I am new to Texas toast, but you can count me in as a believer. I chose the mac-n-cheese and sweet vinegar coleslaw as my sides. I was not disappointed. The Tea Drinker went with the rib plate accompanied by cornbread, grits, and baked beans. He had a permanent smile on his face for the rest of the day. Hours later I found him staring into space, repeating over and over, “Damn those ribs were good”…

We were so distracted and excited that we forgot to order Sweet Tea. Darn it, we will just have to make our way back there, soon.

Unleash the Power Within with Loose Leaf Tea

2010-02-21T10:21:00.001-08:00

After three days packed with plenty of food, wine, and social interaction, I am spent. I am staring at my suitcase(headed to NC for another week of the same), a pile of dirty laundry, an inbox that is overflowing, and all I want to do is lie in bed, eat popcorn, sip on bubbly water, and stay in my pajamas. Don’t we all yearn for days where the only thing required of you is to flip to the next page in your book, or mute commercials during a mind-numbing TV movie? This is that day for me.

The Tea Drinker greeted me this morning with a steaming cup of Keemun Hao Ya A, a delightful robust tea. Today is not a day to tread lightly with my caffeine intake. I need the extra boost. The bigger, the bolder the tea, the better my outlook will be. Hey, I like the way that sounds, kinda catchy: the bigger, the bolder the tea, the better my outlook will be! Repeat. Bob your head to the left, and now to the right. Bounce up and down. Skip around. Wow, I am starting to feel better already. Tony Robbins move over --I have unleashed the power within-I just might have the motivation to get out of bed today, or even a take a shower. My possibilities are unlimited. The world is my oyster.

Embrace your inner strength. But, remember to have that kettle nearby…

Always Sweet, Never Short: Tea & Chocolate

2010-02-14T14:17:00.000-08:00

Today, are you finding yourself wondering what the secret is to a great marriage? The hype that surrounds this day can bring even the most capable man to his knees. The greeting card section of the grocery store is depleted and ransacked, florists are frazzled, candy shops are no longer sweet, and therapists take to the airways to weigh in on unlocking the key to someone’s heart. Valentine's Day can end up being an added stress to any relationship. Me? I woke up early just like any other day craving caffeine(in awe of my husband's amazing ability to steep an honest cup of tea).

The Tea Drinker and I have been together for almost nineteen years(thirteen married). I am pretty confident that we will be together right through to our golden years. Just this morning, he mentioned to me that I sleep so soundly that he checks to see if I am still breathing. What more could I ask for in a mate?

Many years ago, my husband’s Mom(Mops) gave me a handwritten note on a recipe card with the ingredients for a ‘beautiful and lasting friendship’. This advice has certainly worked for us; we only tweaked it slightly(see addendum below**). Thanks, Mops.

• Respect- 1 full cup

• Kindness- 1 full cup
• Honesty- 1 full cup
• Patience- 1 full cup
• Wisdom- 1 full cup
• Love- Infinity
Mix the above ingredients gently for a loving and enduring relationship.
**Supplement with ‘wine nights , pour in lots of humor, jet set and travel, and most importantly, take time to enjoy many delicious meals together.

Need to Spice it Up?!
Treat your honey to a loose leaf tea and chocolate pairing. No joke. The pairing of these two treats are good for your health; packed with plenty of anti-oxidants and benefits (including reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease). You need a strong heart to stay in a healthy relationship.

Remember to stick with the following ground rules: always choose high quality and premium chocolates and loose leaf teas. Dark Chocolate has a higher cocoa butter content( 55% cacao or more) resulting in complex, full-bodied flavors that are less sweet and more bitter. Try a full bodied Keemun, or a lovely rich Pu-erh to pair with this type of chocolate. If you are a fan of Milk Chocolate (30% to 70%), these richer softer flavors pair nicely with Oolongs or even a bright green tea.

Currently my favorite chocolate producer is Vosges Haut Chocolate based in Chicago, IL. I adore this company and their philosophy about life, love and chocolate. Trust me, I have done a lot of market research. Vosges produces exotic chocolates made from the best ingredients offered from around the world. I could go on and on about the exquisite pairings that Owner/Chocolatier Katrina Markoff creates using unusual spices, intermingled with delightful flowers, and high quality artisan chocolate. And yes, she even experiments with integrating loose leaf tea into her repertoire.

Try any of the following pairings below and you will not be disappointed. Hey, when exotic, tea, and chocolate are all in the same sentence, you should not ignore the signs…

Matcha Exotic Candy Bar- Japanese matcha green tea with milk chocolate( 45% cacao). A perfect match with a grassy and complex Gyokuro.

Naga Exotic Candy Bar-Sweet Indian Curry, coconut and milk chocolate(41% cacao). Pair with the intriguing and seductive Mokalbari Single Estate Assam, and your heart will sing.

Calinda Exotic Candy Bar-Cardamon, organic walnuts, dried plums and dark chocolate( 65%). Spicy, and hot. Try with Organic Chic Chai or Herbal Masala Chai for a tamed down version.

Now, the above are just some of my favorites. But, if you are crazy about any of the following: walnuts, almonds, chili peppers, bacon, peanut butter, marshmallows, hibiscus, cinnamon, sea salt, goji berries, and macadamia nuts (just to name a few), then order now. Run to your kettle, don’t walk. Turn it on, kiss your honey, and count your blessings!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Chips, Dip & Loose Leaf Tea

2010-02-07T06:53:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for some FOOTBALLLLLL? I can only imagine the frenzy people are experiencing today. Friday (while in the Chicago Airport on my way home to Buffalo) I saw loads of people decked out in team gear with beer cozies in hand, ready to take on the weekend. Yesterday I ventured into Wegmans grocery store with my Mom; it took us an hour and half to battle the Chip Aisle. Quite the sight—Buffalonians are normally crazy for their Chip N Dip on any given day, but with Super Bowl XLIV looming, look out.

Okay, if you have read my posts before, you are well aware that I am not mesmerized by football. But I love nothing more than sitting on the couch reading a good book, sipping loose leaf tea or drinking wine (or in this case, spending time with my Dad at his home in Batavia, NY) while watching the game. We have a fun packed day planned: chips and Bison French Onion Dip, pretzels, Buffalo Chicken Wings with real bleu cheese, and Turkey & Pastrami Reuben sandwiches. We got it covered on the food front. I am armed with the final sappy book of the Twilight series (Breaking Dawn) and plenty of Organic Chic Chai to keep me warm and wide awake for the best entertainment of the day—Super Bowl commercials!

The Tea Drinker is at home in balmy Napa, CA, relishing in the thought of having the couch to himself. With his feline mascot stretched out behind him, he is stocked with plenty of good food & wine. Every Sunday during the past football season we have promptly called my Dad after each game to agonize over the lowlights and celebrate the highlights. (Remember, my husband is in charge of the post-game chit-chat—I’ve been reading a book.) This Sunday it will be fun to hang out with my Dad and Edward Cullen (Twilight) as we root for the…

Have fun, and be safe.

** Photo: Please do not try this at home. I think it’s illegal

Simply Delicious & Healthy

2010-01-31T14:16:00.000-08:00

After an eleven hour slumber, I woke up refreshed this morning, and ready to tackle the week before me. I fell asleep last night precisely as the Tea Drinker hit play on our DVD player. We had planned to watch this week’s NetFlix movie: The Hangover. In regards to the many genres of movies available, I prefer drama, drama, and more drama. I do not enjoy comedies. Maybe it's because my life overfloweth with it on a daily basis. I know you are thinking: “Drama never enters your life?”. Nope, just comedy. In any case, just another example that a higher being does exist, as I was granted this small blessing of missing this ridiculously silly movie. The Tea Drinker was not impressed with it, either.

Any how, I vow tonight to attempt to stay up past 8:30pm, or at least make it through 60 minutes. The key will be for me to enjoy a cup of Golden Pu-erh right after dinner, instead of reaching for another glass of wine. This might help with avoiding any real life hangovers, too. Now, I am using my noggin’.

Today, I am eager to share with you the dinner that we enjoyed last night. It was so tasty, healthy, and easy to prepare. You must give it a try. Each weekend, we typically experiment with a new recipe, and yesterday’s dish was a hit.

While prepping for dinner, we snacked on Aged Manchego and Young Mahon, two lovely Spanish cheeses. Now onto the recipe- the key to this dish is that the process starts on the stove, and then finishes in the oven. Therefore, you need a skillet worthy of transferring from the stove to the oven. We chose to use a 10 inch skillet first, and then used a Spanish Cazuela clay pan. By using this attractive earthenware, you can move it right to the table. If you do not have a cazuela pan, the best bet is to use a cast iron skillet for both steps.

Simple Ingredients:
•Patagonian toothfish- 4-6oz Fillets. Now, I have your attention. Okay, this fish is simply known as Chilean Sea Bass. Buy your fish from a reputable, local fishmonger.
•Olive Oil- 3 TBSP
•Sweet Onion- (1)sliced into wedges. About ½ inch.
•Garlic- 2 cloves, thinly sliced
•Paprika- ½ Tsp. We use Hungarian paprika, because we like the smoky dimension that it adds to the dish.
•28oz Can of Whole Plum Tomatoes – I like Organic Muir. Drain, crush slightly, remove seeds. Set aside.
•Italian Parsley- Chopped, 2 Tbsp.
•Salt & Pepper

Simplified Romesco Sauce:
** a lovely flavorful Catalan sauce. Great accompaniment to roasted fish.
•Raw Almonds(whole,with skin)- 1/2 cup. coarsely chopped, then lightly toasted.
•Olive Oil - 4 TBSP.
•Roasted Red Peppers- Jarred is fine. About a cup.
•Paprika- ½ tsp.
•Garlic- 1 clove, minced
•Sherry Vinegar- 1 TBSP. Do not be afraid to buy this versatile vinegar- great for salads, too(whisk with honey and olive oil).
To Prepare Sauce: In a small food processor or blender, add garlic, peppers, pinch of salt, paprika, and process until pureed. Add 4 TBSP of olive oil slowly. Combine. Taste. Add the sherry vinegar. Stir, and set aside.

Ready, Set, Go:
1) Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.
2) In a 12 inch skillet over medium-low heat sauté onions for 15 minutes until golden brown. Add garlic- sauté about 5 minutes. Stir in Paprika.
3) Add crushed tomatoes and simmer over medium-high heat for 10 minutes. Add pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste.
4) Layer bottom of oven-proof pan with the tomato/onion mixture, save a heaping TBSP for each fillet. Place fish fillets on top of tomato mixture. Salt, pepper, and sprinkle the fish with parsley. Spoon remaining tomato/onion mixture on top..
5) Place in oven, bake for 15 minutes or until the thickest part of fish is opaque.

Viola! Serve fish with the romesco sauce on the side. Pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy. We went with Road 31 2007 Carneros Pinot Noir.

Serves 4.

** recipe adapted from Sur La Table, Things Cooks Love.

Boundless Energy- Drink Iced Herbal Masala Chai

2010-01-24T12:24:00.001-08:00

Reporting from Sarasota, FL, where we are visiting Mops & Pops. The Tea Drinker met me at his parents' house on Friday afternoon. He braved the California weather, and boarded a delayed red-eye out of SFO the night before, endured an early morning layover in Atlanta, and finally arrived safely in Sarasota after circling above the airport for more than an hour(due to dense fog). The Tea Drinker does not enjoy the process of travelling; this trip is another example of his unwavering love for me. Okay, he loves his parents, too. I was eager to kick off the weekend and meet my husband in Sarasota after having spent a week travelling to Orlando and Jacksonville spreading the good word. We jumped right into dining out, drinking wine, and introducing Pops to I- Beer, a 99cent application, that we downloaded onto his IPod Touch. Hey, 99 cents for a lifetime of laughs is so worth it, and its calorie free, too.

My in-laws look fantastic(see above photo), and are doing great and it must be noted that they have bounds of energy(see photo again). I am waiting for this ‘new found’ energy in life to kick in for the Tea Drinker and me. This first week back on the road after a short hiatus has proven me rusty and tired. It’s been an eventful week. Let’s count the ways: I lost and then found my cell phone car charger, conveniently forgot my wallet after offering to pick up the wine tab at dinner(my father-in-law suggests that I stick to buying complimentary mimosas at breakfast), proceeded to get lost for over an hour in a residential area with a drained cell phone and a GPS(not sure how this happened), left important beauty maintenance products back home in Napa(read: unruly hair, and tired eyes), but most importantly, I forgot to bring my treasured tea stash with me! Maybe this is the core reason to why my energy level is so low. I realize now that I have finally turned a corner in the mysterious land of tea, and can never go back to mediocre hotel coffee or stale bagged teas. Just can’t do it. I sneer, and snicker. I begged the Tea Drinker to please bring me some tea, and a new pair of contacts for my tired eyes.

Dan’s parents enjoy Drink the Leaf herbal teas every day. Of course, they offered me a tasty iced version of Herbal Masala Chai, which was great, but if you know me, I love to bellow “caffeine” over and over each morning. The Tea Drinker arrived with a bounty: Keemun Hao Ya A, Organic Golden Monkey, and Emergen-C. Perfect! This would be sure to cure all, and I felt ready to take on the world. My in-laws suggested a bike ride. Sure, why not? We left the Tea Drinker behind, as he was nursing an upset stomach. We peddled out of the driveway, and Mops & Pops took off. I trailed behind them, huffing and puffing, and pretended to look at turtles and Sand Hill Cranes while catching my breath. I was marveled by their energy, as they biked for more than 12 miles, and told me of their usual route of 19 miles. Maybe there is something to drinking herbal teas…

This week, I have certainly learned that I should start biking to boot camp, and that I should never ever leave home without tea, both fully-loaded and caffeine-free. Here's to living life to its fullest!

Haiti- A country in need. Take Action now.

2010-01-17T12:24:00.000-08:00

The Tea Drinker & I join the rest of the world in grieving for the people of Haiti. We can’t tear ourselves away from the TV and watching the news. We stare in awe at the devastation, horror, and great tragedy that has struck this country not far from our homeland. The images resonate with us, and weigh on our emotions. We are reeling from the stories of rescue efforts and survivors still being found five days after the earthquake.

Hope. A belief and wanting that circumstances and predicaments can turn around and work out for the best. I would like to add action to the equation. Hope keeps you going in times of great need, and for the people of Haiti--hope, love and prayer are all that they have left. Action needs to come from the rest of the world.

Our leaders are being very direct in what is needed: money. Donations will provide relief, food, water, aid, medicine, rescue, shelter and rebuilding for the earthquake survivors. Join us in this effort, and please donate, if you can. Any amount, $5, $10, $25 will help rebuild the life of an orphan, mother, father, brother, or sister in need.

We found the following two websites to be helpful. They are very easy to navigate and we were able to donate quickly. Impact Your World & ClintonBushHaitiFund.org

As President Obama stated, “The losses that have been suffered in Haiti are nothing less than devastating, and responding to a disaster of this magnitude will require every element of our national capacity." We raise our cup and donation to the survivors, and those helping them rebuild their lives.

**From now until the end of the month, Drink The Leaf will donate 10% of every order(excluding shipping) recieved to ClintonBushHaitiFund.org. This organization is working to provide immediate relief and long-term support to the earthquake survivors.

Touchdown with Loose Leaf Tea!

2010-01-10T11:32:00.000-08:00

“He- could- go- all- the- way”. I love to quote ESPN announcer Chris Berman. He makes me laugh. Funny, since the quote is tied to football, a sport that I know basically zip, nada, and nothing about. You would think since I grew up in Orchard Park, NY less than 2 miles from Ralph Wilson Stadium( formerly known as Rich Stadium) that I would be well versed in football. I am embarrassed to admit that even living that close to a stadium, I never went to a game.

I guess at times my life did intersect with football. My mom used to run into former Buffalo Bills’ coach, Marv Levy, when they were both out walking their dogs. That has to count for something. And, there were a few kids in high school that their fathers were coaches or players. Another good point. Also, as a teenager, I worked at a local hot dog stand that was frequented by mountain-sized players who consumed milkshake after milkshake. I even met famed quarterback Jim Kelly a few times. A true story: once while riding my bike home from work, a rookie player (often in the news, and not in a good way) followed me in his Mercedes. He wanted to meet my parents, and ask for their permission to take me out on a date. I was flattered, but my Mom said NO. Never understood why. If she were a bit more flexible, I might now a thing or two about football today. Hmm.

In college, I spent many weekends and Monday nights in various sports bars, but I primarily focused on pitchers of beer and baskets of chicken wings. I think this is where I got side-tracked. I was doomed to know nothing about one of America’s favorite obsessions. Of course, I am talking about football, not beer. Thank god I moved across the country, and no longer fear running into famous football characters. The pressure is off, and I don’t need to know a darn thing about the game. Today, a day of watching football translates into a day of reading, relaxing, and drinking loose leaf tea. Yes, I have gone way off track.

This weekend was different. It was all about football. I admit I had an ulterior motive. There is a new bar in Napa, named the Norman Rose. A cozy tavern, with a plethora of beers on tap, a few flat screen TVs, accompanied with comfort food, including Truffle Parmesan fries. Okay, you caught me. The fries were the real reason that I suggested to my husband that we call my best friend (football fanatic), and park our butts at the bar at 4pm on a Saturday. I was not disappointed. They watched the Dallas Cowboys confidently crush the Philadelphia Eagles, while I drank Lagunitas IPA, snacked on pub cheese, and munched on perfectly seasoned fries. Just like the old days in college, but way more civilized.

Now it’s Sunday, and I have suggested to the Tea Drinker that we snuggle up on the couch with a steaming pot of tea, and watch football again. Like I said, who have I become? It’s an overcast, chilly day in Napa, and the sun is starting to peak through, and I can’t imagine any other way to spend the day. The good news is that the Buffalo Bills are no longer a point of concern for my husband, and I do not have to listen to him moan, groan, and swear. He can shelf that worry until next season, and just relax and watch the game. I have already started planning Super Bowl 44. I will be visiting the parents in Buffalo, and plan to watch the game with my Dad; I am in charge of the snacks. I got it covered. The only problem is that my Dad is a coffee drinker. Damn. I guess I will have to smuggle in some tea leaves.

Whether it be beer drinking, wine swirling, tea sipping, or actually watching the game...take time to enjoy the sport of your choice today!

Top 10 Highlights of 2009

2010-01-03T09:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Bring on 2010! The year of the Tiger. GRRR.

We had a fabulous 2009. We are eager to see what adventures are in store in 2010 for the Tea Drinker and his faithful, adoring witty wife(that's me). I hope it will include intriguing travels, tasty morsels, liberal libations, lots of friends and family, and loads of laughter.

My Top 10 Highlights of 2009

10) Michael Mina, Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay, NYC's Locande Verde , Chinese New Year, or Thanksgiving at a dear friend’s home. It’s a tossup for me between which one of these was my favorite meal of 2009. I am spoiled rotten when it comes to enjoying food, and proud of it. All of the above experiences had the right ingredients: ambiance, great company, copious wine, and a downright delicious meal.

9) The Little Fishes. After years of whining about wanting a fish tank, my dear husband surprised me with one for my birthday. A highlight indeed, and the best part is that the Tea Drinker cleans the tank. Check out what our cat, Little One, thinks about this new addition to our family.

8) Mops & Pops 50th Wedding Anniversary. A milestone, and a fantastic celebration. It was a treat to spend time with our extended family back East. No, really.

7) A family Affair: Gemma Grace & Oklahoma Bound. I can't wait to meet our precious new niece, Gemma. My parents are finally grandparents at last, and can expand their pictures of offspring beyond a cute little feline that resides on the West Coast. Congratulations to my brother, Mike and lovely Rachel! In August, we descended upon the Sooner state for a relaxing and fun weekend with my brother, Nick. We wore ten gallon hats, road down Main street on throughbreds, and drank beer by the boat load. Well, at least the beer part is true.

6) Phone & Internet. I can't live without this little gadget known as the cell phone. How else would I be able to stay in touch with my best friends, Alex & Dede, and talk their ears off at will? And, a weekly highlight always includes conversations with my Dad. We talk about everything and nothing. A phone and a dame is a dangerous thing. And because of Facebook and Twitter, I was able to reconnect with college friends for a “girls gone crazy’ weekend in NYC last February. And, lived to talk about it.

5) Mommy and Me. A wonderful Happy Birthday getaway Mother’s Day weekend bash in Charleston, SC. What fun. We love this historical city, and all that it has to offer. We will be back.

4)Sea Ranch. My top ten list would not be complete without including my treasured getaway destination. If you haven’t been, do yourself a favor and plan a trip. But, please not when I am there, I am trying to relax...

3)Drink the Leaf Organic Golden Monkey. Of course, loose leaf tea is near the top of the list. It's my number one jump starter of the day. I am obsessed with this tea- too bad it’s really limited. I can’t imagine my life without tea, and a great book. Dramatic, I know. But, that’s how I roll.

2)Napa Valley Adventure Boot Camp. Obviously, I am equally obsessed with my ‘must have’ outdoor workout regimen. I am grateful for my health. Now, if I could just find a ‘nutrition plan’ that I am equally as obsessed about.

1) Happy New Years! For years we have rung in the new year with our great friends, the Scots. We stay at home and enjoy each other’s company with bubbles flowing and devour a fabulous meal. This year’s highlights were no exception: Cream of Cauliflower soup from Thomas Keller's Ad Hoc At Home, a ruthless game of Pictionary, and we stayed up past Midnight without any injuries.

Thank you for reading! Here's to much more fun and laughter in 2010!

** Post your favorite highlights of 2009 here**

Taking A Sick Day

2009-12-27T09:43:00.000-08:00

I am reporting from bed with a steaming cup of my all time favorite tea, Organic Golden Monkey , placed by my keyboard, and my faithful cat, Little One, curled up at my feet. Just one more week, and I would have made it through an entire year without a sinus infection. Of course, there have been hints of one surfacing here and there, but I dodged the bullet each time. Then, wham, bam, thank you, M’am- nasty sinus infection and raging headache enters the picture smack during the holidays. I knew it was too good to be true to make it through 2009 without incident! We trudged through our plans anyways with a getaway trip to San Francisco, hoping that the fresh ocean air and Union Square shopping would help clear my head. When all else failed, we got cozy with Manhattans at the Clock Bar, and then treated ourselves to a well-deserved mid-afternoon nap.

It is important to note here that the Tea Drinker was officially anointed a Saint this holiday season(pictured left). He took great care of me. Providing piles of Kleenex at a moment’s notice, throat lozenges at will, and even made a Christmas Eve run to the pharmacy at 11:30pm, so that I could get a restful night’s sleep. As soon as my eyes popped open each morning, I heard the kettle on, and eagerly awaited his remedy: a flavorful cup of loose leaf tea. And, when my whining got to be too much, he poured me a glass of bubbles and then took me out for spicy food. A true dear. Snotty nose and all, I am so grateful to have spent this holiday with my loving husband(who has access to copious amounts of tea).

Thank you, Honey! My cup is empty, and I need a spot more….

Have a joyful and healthy New Year! May your cup always be full and runneth over.

Caramelized Onion Tart

2009-12-20T09:42:00.000-08:00

This savory caramelized onion tart is a winner each holiday season. And the best part is that the Tea Drinker makes it from scratch, and it’s “his baby”. There is nothing better than being the recipient of a delicious homemade meal. I prefer to enjoy a slice while sitting by the fire, holiday music blaring in the background, glass of Chardonnay in hand; feeling grateful and thankful for my husband who likes to cook, and is good at it.

Before we get started, it should be noted that in our home, pouring yourself a glass of wine is always the first ingredient. Optional, of course.

What's up Dough?
- 1 ½ cups Flour

• ½ cup + 1 TBSP Chilled Butter
• 1 tsp Salt
• 2-3 TBSP Cold Water
In a food processor, cut butter into the flour and salt mixture until consistency of cornmeal. This can also be done by hand. Add water a little bit at a time until mixture just comes together. Form into a ball, and put into the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

The Goods

• 4 Yellow Onions, Medium. Julienned.
• 3 TBSP Butter
• 2 TBSP Flour
• 2 Eggs, slightly beaten
• ¼ cup of Heavy Cream
• Crumbled bleu cheese, such as Gorgonzola
Heat a large pan, add butter and onions. Sauté over medium heat until onions are caramelized. They will turn brown, and smell wonderful. At this point, deglaze the pan with a couple tablespoons of water, continue to cook until liquid is evaporated, and onions are brown again. Remove from heat. Salt and pepper- stir in eggs and flour. Set aside.

Please note: now put away the wine, and start drinking loose leaf tea.
We speak from experience.

Dough Ready?
• Need a 8-10 inch tart pan( the one w/ removable bottom works best)
• Rolling Pin
• Flour
• Butter
Pre-heat oven to 350. Roll out chilled dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 12” circle. Butter the tart pan. Line the tart pan with the dough circle, pushing the dough all the way up the sides, and trimming the edges. Gently poke holes in dough w/ fork.

Ready, Set, Fork
Spread the onion mixture into the tart. Pour in the cream, and crumble bleu cheese on top. Put the tart in the oven and bake until crust is cooked through, and slightly browned. About 40 minutes. Remove from oven and cool. Enjoy!

Please note: go back to pouring wine for friends, and family, or the holiday spirit will dissipate into thin air- again, we speak from experience.

For us, we are now off to join friends for another holiday past time—dining at the very festive Bistro Jeanty. I see cassoulet in my husband’s future.

** recipe adapted from Chef Maria Helm Sinskey.

'Tis the Season! Naughty or Nice?

2009-12-13T15:20:00.000-08:00

It’s not too late. Don’t fret, there is still time to find the perfect gift idea for family and friends. Below, I have listed some of my favorite coveted things. Yes, most of them seem to revolve around comfort: tea, books, and sweets. It’s the holidays, after all. If you feel the need to forward my holiday wish list(clearly marked below) onto the Tea Drinker, by all means, please do. Hey, at least I should receive credit for creativity. Last year, I put my wish list ‘eye level’ on the refrigerator. It’s always worthwhile to try another approach.

Cozy Tea & A Great Book-
Check out Drink the Leaf’s new eye-catching tin selection. I have tried all of the below ‘tea & book’ pairings; your loved ones will not be disappointed.

White Peony & History of Love, by Nicole Krauss.
Clouds & Mist & Animal Dreams, by Barbara Kingsolver.
Herbal Masala Chai & Twilight(forgive me), by Stephenie Meyer.
Ceylon Black & Born Round, by former NY Times restaurant critic, Frank Bruni.

My Wish List: The ultimate 2009 favorite tea: Organic Golden Monkey & A Man walks into the Room, by Nicole Krauss. True bliss.

Tasty Teas & Botanical Bakery Tea Cookies-This Napa based bakery chose Drink the Leaf to be a part of their holiday gift items this year! Just click and order, and your holiday shopping will be complete. These tea cookies are delicious, and hand-crafted. The owners state on their website: Authentic. Distinctive. unapologetic. Is it you... or the tea cookie?
My Wish List- Well since you asked…it’s the cookie, of course. Peppermint Cocoa Nibs & Ceylon Black Tea, for me, please.

Baker’s Dozen- For the cookie monster in your life, feed them these unbelievable delicious decadent cookies crafted by Chef Annie Baker( yes, this is her real name). Annie is probably the most exuberant person I have ever met. You can’t resist her or her passion for cookies. I am happy to spread the good word. If you love cookie dough, you will devour these tasty bites. They are made from scratch, and you will become addicted. Beware.
My Wish List: Peanut Butter Cookie with mini peanut butter cups or Toffee Milk Chocolate chip.

Napa Valley Toffee- Not into cookies? Really? What’s wrong with you? Be nice, its the holidays. Share this all natural English Toffee offered in both milk and dark chocolate flavors with your friends. Hand-crafted and made in small batches, always fresh. Just plain yummy. It will make you want to celebrate the holidays all year long.
My Wish List: I love to nibble on the Dark Chocolate variety while sipping on a steaming cup of Golden Pu-erh.

Tiffany’s- Doesn't everyone yearn to see that little blue box under the Christmas Tree? I told you I was going to be creative this year…Now, that I have your attention:
My Wish List- I imagine drinking Organic Chic Chai while sitting at my desk chatting with co-workers about the holiday break. Then they exclaim in unison, “ Are those new earrings? Did you get them for Christmas? They are absolutely gorgeous! Your husband is such a doll”.

Happy Holidays everyone! Remember to cherish each day. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season.

Aloha & Mahalo!

2009-12-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

Aloha! What can I say? After three months of travelling, I find myself in Kapalua, Maui. Hey, a girl has to get a base tan for the winter. I am taking a few days off after a week of island hopping spreading the good word about wine. The Tea Drinker joined me on Friday. From what I have read-- jumping off the merry-go-round of life can do one some good. I guess I will need to report back to you about this theory, but for now we are just focusing on beach, pool, beach, pool, and good eats & tropical drinks.

For those of you in chilly parts of the world, steep yourself a flavorful, and cozy cup of Drink the Leaf Assam Mokalbari Estate. My kettle will just have to wait until Tuesday...

Mahalo!

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

2009-11-28T10:56:00.000-08:00

We have much to be thankful for this year. A loving family, our new niece Gemma Grace, dear friends, a wonderful home in beautiful Napa Valley, loads of delicious wine and interesting teas, employment, Drink the Leaf, our feline mascot Little One, travel, much laughter, and the list goes on and on. Thank you for sharing in this adventure with us; we are truly grateful. We wish you and your family much peace, love and happiness during the holiday season.

Thankfully,
Tea Drinker & Wife of Tea Drinker

Three Cheers for Herbal Teas: Time to Cleanse!

2009-11-22T08:48:00.000-08:00

“Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse” kept ringing around in my head, as I dozed on a flight from Chicago to Oakland. My body was fighting back. Months of traveling, little sleep, and over indulgence of food and drink had finally taken its toll. Okay, I give in. The Isagenix 9 day cleanse had my number, and there was no way getting around it. My body was taxed to the max. What to do with my first nine days home in a row since summer? Bring on a cleanse: no alcohol(shock), no caffeine(horror), and limited food(it's about time!).

Why cleanse?
• Your body stores toxic waste that is absorbed through your skin via eating, drinking, and the surrounding air. Scary.
• Toxic waste is stored in FAT. Double scary.
• You will experience more energy, feel better, lose fat & inches. Hooray!
• It will help prevent disease, illness, and future ailments. Double hooray!

Today, is day seven. Yes, I am proud that I have made it this far, and am confident that I will stay strong to the final day. Not sure, if the Isagenix crew would agree with my timing; I will come off the cleanse straight into Thanksgiving. But, that’s how I roll.

How am I doing?
I feel alive! Am I starving? Yes and no. Am I am working out? Yes, but limited. Remember food is fuel, which became very clear to me as I was unable to perform my normal routine at Boot Camp. Will I cut out certain foods after the cleanse? Some. I feel as though I have re-set my body chemistry, and will watch what and how much I consume moving forward. What’s the first wine that I will drink? The closest. What tea will I drink? Organic Golden Monkey. Will I try cleansing again? Absolutely, but maybe not until the Spring! Hey, I have to build up toxins, right?

Cleansing is an ancient health practice to remove impurities from your body. Give it a try, but tread lightly. You will dream about turkey subs(of course, organic), and conducting 3:30am business meetings in Las Vegas (because you are superwoman), and by the end of the week you will sleep as if you were in a coma. Pure unadulterated sleep. And a forewarning to your loved ones ...beware. You will snap at them, but are far wittier. You will cherish the 600 calorie meal during the shake days, as if it were you were your last meal on earth. This is where drama enters the picture. Your loved one will count the days until 'wine time'. But, in the end you will have more clarity, and feel great.

Tips for Isagenix Cleansing:
• No alcohol, caffeine, sugar, or flour
• Drink herbal teas: Drink the Leaf Rooibos, Chamomile, and Peppermint, for example.
• Drink lots of water (80-100oz) daily, and take the vitamins offered.
• Move your body, 30 minutes each day.

• Stay positive, it’s only nine days!

Happy Thanksgiving! At Drink the Leaf, we have much to be thankful for this season. We appreciate your support, and encouragement. All the best to you and yours...

**consult your doctor before cleansing or starting a new workout regime

Spice Up Your Holidays!

2009-11-15T10:54:00.000-08:00

Holidays can be stressful. If the going gets rough and tough, take three deep breaths, pour yourself a cup of your favorite holiday spiced tea (Drink the Leaf Organic Chic Chai works for me), and take a moment for yourself. Everyone has experienced Thanksgiving nightmares, anxiety and embarrassing moments during the holidays. Right? Please humor me, and tell me you have…

We have quite a few cherished memories that keep us giggling during the holidays when the tasks become unbearable. We remember fondly the year we forgot the most coveted holiday gravy. Let’s just say, we were not popular with our guests that time around. Then, there was the year that the Tea Drinker was sick with the flu (I refused to cancel the dinner), and I kept trooping in and out of the bedroom peppering him with questions about how to cook a turkey. That year, I was not very popular with my husband. Or the time, I over served my guests with plenty of wine, so much so, that one of my dear friends became a fixture on our couch for the next two days. Now, this made us extremely popular!

But last year’s experience takes home the prize. After attending a friend’s Thanksgiving pig roast, we were craving the real deal: Turkey. The Tea Drinker and I set out to have the perfect cozy holiday meal at home, just the two of us. We have had many years of cooking this meal together, and jumped right into setting up our timeline, shopping list, and splitting the duties. The menu: turkey, mashers, gravy, cranberry sauce, stuffing, brussel sprouts, and pumpkin pie. Simple. Wine is never a problem, and always flowing. What could go wrong?

Table set, candles lit, music on, wine poured, the only thing left to do was carve the turkey. Hmm…but this turkey looked strange. I commented to my husband about the gap between the crispy skin and meat. Actually, where was the breast meat?! Is this turkey defected? I grumbled that I was going to give the Whole Foods' butcher a tongue lashing. Come on, an organic turkey looks like this? Emaciated?

Defeated and frustrated, we settled for a few bites of meat, and decided to go with the turkey legs. Everything tasted great, but we were still miffed about the “weak” bird. After a bottle of wine, and the dishes were put away, I heard the Tea Drinker meekly groan from the kitchen, “Honey, could you come in here?”. My husband was staring down at our starved turkey. He squeaked out, “The turkey bird is upside down.” All that delicious breast meat, that we gave up on finding, was nice and moist on the bottom of the roasting pan. Boy, he was embarrassed, and I was in hysterics. He swore me to secrecy, but I am pretty sure he does not read my blog, anyways.

This year my Drink the Leaf Chai tea moments will be extra tasty; I am grateful that my life is right side up, and I have a teeming cup of memories to keep things light hearted and fun.

** Drink the Leaf is offering 15% off Organic Chic Chai & Herbal Masala Chai. Enter "turkey" in the coupon code. Click Recalculate. Offer expires Wed, November 25th at midnight.

As Easy as Pumpkin Pie

2009-11-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

As Thanksgiving approaches, I am stepping back into the kitchen. Lately, I have been on a hiatus, mostly due to my hectic travel schedule. I’ve been on the “gravy train” crisscrossing back and forth around the country, dining out each night. It’s the rough life, I know. But, now I am fat and lazy, and eager to get back to the front line.

I love preparing a meal from planning the menu to sitting down with the Tea Drinker and enjoying an evening at home. Prepping ingredients tends to put me into a “Zen-like” mode (my husband may disagree with this statement, as he mostly hears swear words coming from the kitchen). This whole process of preparation and anticipating helps keep me sane. Yes, its true, afterwards the kitchen looks as if a raging war went on, but acts of brilliance sometimes are displayed in mysterious ways...

This weekend, I had the urge to make pumpkin ravioli. Well, not really, but I had to figure out what to do with the three pound organic Whole Foods pumpkin that my husband bought for me. Remember last week’s Boot Camp request to bring a pumpkin to class to use as a workout apparatus? Well, I would have been laughed right out of there with that pee-wee of a pumpkin. Nothing left to do, but eat it the darn thing.

I have never really cooked with a pumpkin outside of making a pie, and even then, used canned pumpkin puree. Not this time, we used the real deal. It was like serving Fall on a plate. Very tasty and comforting. Give this recipe a try, before you are sick of looking at all things pumpkin. Invite your friends over, pour them a steaming cup of spicy Drink the Leaf Chai, and toast to the season.

Pumpkin Ravioli served with an Autumn Salad

Simple ingredients:
3-4 pound organic pumpkin
8oz cream cheese , softened
1 tsp of kosher salt
¼ tsp of cinnamon
¼ tsp of nutmeg
1-package of wonton wrappers( square)
That’s it, and make sure you have butter and grated Parmesan on hand, too!

Roll your Sleeves Up:
1)Cut pumpkin in half, scoop out seeds(save for toasting later). Rub each half with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place pumpkin cut side down on a cookie sheet and roast in oven at 350degrees. For about an hour, until tender.
2)Scoop out the baked pumpkin goodies, and whip to a smooth puree. I used a Cuisinart, but it’s not necessary.
3) Fold the soften cream cheese into the pumpkin puree. Add salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
4)Now the fun part! Place a 1/2tsp of pumpkin filling into the center of the wonton wrapper. Wet the edges with water, and fold in half or into a triangle piece. Press to close, and pinch edges with prongs of a fork. Viola! Ravioli.
5)Bring pot of salted water to a boil. Add ravioli, and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they float. Remove the ravioli with a slotted spoon, and set on plate to rest. Drain off any excess water.
6)While the ravioli is resting, heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook the butter until it starts to brown, remove from heat. Set aside.
7) Serve Ravioli with browned butter on top, and sprinkled with Parmesan. We like to heat up our serving plates in the microwave, to help keep the ravioli warm.
8) Have leftovers? Share with friends, freeze, or take a deep breath and serve up another plate!

**recipe adapted from http://www.thetoddlercafe.blogspot.com/ Thank you for sharing, Jennifer. Great site.

Enjoy the bounty, working out has never been this good!

Trick or Treat & Loose Leaf Tea

2009-11-01T08:04:00.000-08:00

Last week, Jeff Larson, our local fitness superhero, reminded us to show up for this year's Halloween Charity Boot Camp( in costume with a heavy pumpkin) for an intensive battle of the bulge workout. Jeff cautioned us about our sugar intake this time of year; he recently read that people consume an average of 26lbs of candy from Halloween until the end of the year. I was shocked. I love candy, same as the next person, but twenty-six pounds of it seems a bit excessive.

My subconscious tickled my memory and reminded me of the seventeen bags of candy the Tea Drinker and I purchase each year for the biggest night in our neighborhood—Halloween. Our street is lit up like a cemetery festival, while scary, greedy little kiddies and their parents descend into the neighborhood, ringing doorbells and yelling "trick or treat". One year, a neighbor of ours actually counted 1, 000 little munchkins. No kidding. Hence, seventeen bags of candy are needed to fend off toilet paper and egg yolks. Of course, we naturally tend to purchase these goods the week before (first mistake), and end up knocking down at least one or two bags before the big day. Then, on the night of, as our doorbell rings incessantly, both of us start stowing away our favorites(second mistake). It's was becoming clear to me why we needed to avoid going down the "26 pounds of candy" road.

This year, we were "dark". Lights off, no decorations, no candy. We planned date night in downtown Napa, and enjoyed dinner at one of our favorite haunts, Angele. Before heading out to dinner(under cloak and cover) we stopped at our neighbor's house to give candy to their two children. They are adorable kids and we did not want to deny them of their treat. True, they are probably too young to hold a grudge, but we were attempting to ward off the day when they were older and looked back on the year we starved them of their sugar rights. Paybacks can be hell.

Mysteriously, a bag of candy appeared in our home last week. I kidded the Tea Drinker about his decision to buy a whole bag, when we only needed two candy bars for the neighbor's children. We debated back and forth, as candy wrappers stacked up before us. I suggested next Halloween that we hand out gifts of Drink the Leaf loose tea( a flavorful herbal rooibos, suitable for children), instead of candy. Hey, at least its not a toothbrush! This idea came to me while sipping a bold Pu-erh and enjoying a Twix candy bar. A delicious pairing. Okay, I give in. Please continue to buy and enjoy sweets, but I urge you to control yourself. Also, remember to exercise, and move your body during the holiday season. Twenty six pounds of candy is absurd.

** Photo by Tiffany Larson, Napa Valley Adventure Boot Camp

Napa Farmer's Market Season Comes to an End

2009-10-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

A quick post today. I just returned from a weekend in Los Angeles—a mixture of work and pleasure. Isn’t it always? I am home for a day before I head out to Chicago to return to another busy weekend. Fall is in the air, Halloween is fast approaching, and the Napa Farmer’s Market season is coming to an end. Next Saturday, October 31st marks the last day. Don’t miss it! New teas will be on hand. I personally look forward to stocking up on my favorite produce and goodies, as well as wishing all of the vendors a successful off-season.

We will miss visiting with customers in person each Saturday, but I assure you, the Tea Drinker will not miss the 5:30am wake up call. He is looking forward to future Saturdays of sleeping in! A big thank you to our customers for their support this season! You are the best. In the meantime, if you need us---feel free to visit us at www.drinktheleaf.com.

Drinking 1992 Pu-erh, and enjoying being home for the moment. Remember to visit and support your local farmer's market before the season comes to an end.

Gone Fishin' Again

2009-10-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

Reporting from Singer Island, FL

Last week my adventures in peddling wine took me to Tampa, Naples, Miami and ended with a wine dinner at The Resort at Singer Island with Solu Restaurant . The dinner was sold out, and a huge hit. It was a fun evening had by all, as we enjoyed lots of fabulous wine alongside a memorable meal. After this whirlwind week, I could not resist the temptation to stay for the weekend and settle into a bit of rest and relaxation. It did not take me long to convince the Tea Drinker to join me on this getaway(sorry Mops & Pops that we did not make it Sarasota this trip).

Coincidentally, last week also corresponded with opening season of Stone Crab. The Tea Drinker and I consumed our fair share of deliciously fresh crab over two days, and debated back and forth whether we preferred this variety to its West Coast rival: Dungeness Crab. In the end, we both agreed our hearts were dedicated to Dungeness Crab(season usually starts mid-November). We were first introduced to Dungeness Crab about 13 years ago at a slightly run-down seafood restaurant located in Coos Bay, Oregon. I ordered from the menu with trepidation and stared blankly at our waitress as she inquired if I would like to select my meal from the tank. Gulp. No, thank you. Soon, a beautiful pink crustacean arrived before me, and again I was at a loss for words. How the heck was I to tackle devouring this lovely creature? I breathed a sigh of relief as the waitress man-handled my meal, cracking and crunching the crab right before my eyes. That experience sent me on a lifelong mission of seeking out crab season each year.

Then, there is Alaskan King Crab. For my fortieth birthday, friends surprised me with Fisherman's Express delivered right to my door at our Sea Ranch escape. My Mom was celebrating with us that weekend, and as I opened the box, she exclaimed, “I hope you have butter!”. Not to worry, we always have the goods. In my quest for all things crustacean, it wouldn't be right to leave out soft shell crab. Another favorite of mine, especially if it’s tempura fried and served with a side of pimento cheese grits at the Peninsula Grill located in Charleston, SC. It's no coincidence that my wine travels bring me to the South during season each year.

Go ahead and ask. I am sure you are dying to know how Drink the Leaf loose leaf teas pair with all things crab? I have no idea. I was too busy cracking Stone Crab, wiping creamy mustard sauce off my chin, and slurping down Chardonnay.

Got Goose Bumps? Drink Tea.

2009-10-11T10:58:00.000-07:00

It was a cool 52 degrees in Napa this morning. Foggy and cozy. A perfect setting for drinking tea all day. The Tea Drinker’s Internet and Farmer’s Market sales have certainly picked up with the recent dip in temperature. Cool weather brings back tea drinkers who were on a hiatus over the summer months from our favorite beverage. Welcome back! We are ready for you with lots of new tea selections—perfect for fall and the upcoming winter months.

Put on your fuzzy slippers, dig out a handy infuser, and select your favorite Drink the Leaf loose leaf tea. Next, shelf those stressful thoughts about Thanksgiving plans, Christmas gift shopping, raking leaves and preparing for fall, end of year travel season, and selling lots of wine…Whoa- Sorry, I got carried away. Focus--pour yourself a cup of tea and soothe your worries away…

What’s your fancy? Here are mine:

Organic Golden Monkey- I crave this tea. I start most mornings by bellowing from bed that I need this tea. Sorry, Keemun- I still love you, and will call soon. Golden Monkey will make you want to jump around and hang from the chandeliers. A flavorful organic black tea from the Yunnan Province. You will love the finish –cocoa, cocoa, and more cocoa. Try it!

Organic Chic Chai- This tea screams that fall and winter are here! Break out this aromatic tea and you will warm up right away. Black tea intermingled with cardamom and vanilla. Add milk and sugar if you really want to go all out.

Organic Golden Pu-erh- Definitely one of the coziest teas we offer. Any time that I mention Pu-erh to someone, the first thing they say, “Is that the tea that is buried in the ground?” Okay, what’s not appealing about that?! Pu-erh is ancient, rare and mysterious. Enjoy this tea after dinner; a perfect answer for when you want to grab another glass of wine. Instead, steep yourself a cup of Golden Pu-erh. Your head will thank you in the morning.

Go ahead, put the kettle on!

The Chicken Wing Dance

2009-10-04T14:39:00.000-07:00

Why do I crave Buffalo Chicken Wings whenever I am exhausted? Maybe this craving stems from college, where I ran myself ragged, and consumed my fair share of junk food. It’s a Pavlov response—my eyes droop, and I crave hot wings. Seriously, I love chicken wings. Many of my friends have been subjected to the chicken wing dance(not a pretty sight), and they still hang out with me. Nearly 18 years ago we left Buffalo and headed to the West Coast embarking on a journey that also forced us to begin a quest to find the ultimate chicken wing-- reminiscent of our hometown specialty. Time and time again we have had to settle for mediocre wings, but we never gave up. One whiff of hot sauce, and we were running to find the source.

After years of sampling chicken wings within a 60 mile radius, we thought our quest was numbered. Then out of nowhere I saw a blaring Wing Stop neon sign from the highway, and nearly drove off the road. Should I pull in? It was ten o’clock at night; I was in Oakland and alone. But, it was chicken wings. I pulled into the parking lot and made a call to the Tea Drinker. I could hardly contain myself, as I blurted out, “Have you heard of the Wing Stop?". He had not, and it didn't matter. I announced, "I’m going in”. We agreed that if I did not call back within 20 minutes, a phone call to the chicken wing police was in order. I strutted in and immediately felt light-headed. My nostrils flared as the familiar aroma of hot sauce filled the air. I giggled. My eyes darted to the menu. It was perfectly simple-- wings with nine different sauces, fresh-cut fries, coleslaw, and baked beans. I had really hit the jack pot. The place was teeming with people enjoying themselves. Baskets of wings, loads of napkins, and huge helpings of blue cheese (the real kind) littered every table.

I gathered my double order of wings with extra blue cheese and headed home. In anticipation, my mouth watered the whole way to Napa . This was such big news, that I even called my best friend. We excitedly planned trips to the Wing Stop in the near future. Once home, the Tea Drinker and I devoured the bounty, and stole knowingly glances at each other. We had finally won. Right there and then, we made the chicken wing pact. Every time I returned from the Oakland Airport, I would need to bring home the goods. The Tea Drinker eagerly pulled out my travel schedule to find out how many times we could eat chicken wings before the end of the month. I was concerned. With this new find, I was surely bound to gain back that Freshmen 15 from college.

We carried on like this for months, until one day I received a frantic phone call from my best friend. She yelled into the phone, “You will never believe this. I just saw a Wing Stop in American Canyon!” I could not believe my luck. The Wing Stop was now a mere 15 miles from our home. So, today, after surviving a very successful exhausting weekend celebration, I announced to the Tea Drinker that it was definitely a “chicken wing” day. He agreed. But first, we set aside our new arrivals of Pu-erh (the perfect digestive) to enjoy after the feast. We are not rookies.

Our favorite stand by order: Ten Original Hot, Ten Garlic Parmesan, Extra blue cheese, and an order of fresh-cut fries. Enjoy Drink the Leaf Golden Pu-erh to settle your stomach.

Loose Leaf Tea & Boot Camp- a healthy match

2009-09-27T09:51:00.001-07:00

Brace yourself. I am now going to gush over Napa Valley Adventure Boot Camp, again. What brings this on? Yesterday, yours truly, completed Napa River Rock & Stroll 6K charity run within 40 minutes. This is the same person who less than a year ago was unable to run around the block without stopping. Back to boot camp, this outdoor fitness program is owned by Jeff and Tiffany Larson; two individuals that are completely dedicated to each other, their family, and the boot campers. Once you get over the fear of exerting yourself to near exhaustion at 5:30am in the morning with 30 other men and women, you realize that you can’t live without this fitness program. It’s one-stop get fit shopping: amazing, knowledgeable fitness instructors, nutritional advice, workout variety, fresh air, inspiring fellow boot campers, and the sweet taste of success, as you reach your goals.

After years of declaring to those around me, “I am going to the gym; do not mess with me”, I discovered that it was time for a change. My old M.O. was to dive into various classes that involved grunting and sweating (spin, kickboxing, personal trainers, elliptical torture machines, Pilates, free weights, you name it), however, I found that I still wasn't committed. A familiar pattern of working out like a mad woman, then moving into a complacent half-assed routine, and finally the inevitable—abandoning ship. What is IT about yo-yoing through life when it comes to working out? Maybe it’s as simple as not over thinking it. After I survived my first four week camp one year ago, I realized that it was a lifestyle choice. Simple, I know. Sometimes the right choices are the hardest to put into place.

Today, after making that choice to focus on the enjoyable aspect of working out (who have I become?) and finding the right fit for me, I am eager to share this experience with others. If you live in Napa, please join. If you live elsewhere, Google boot camp in your city or reach out for us, and we can help you find a reputable program near you. Put your health first, and everything else will fall into place.

Next up, I am working on getting the Tea Drinker to join me in this adventure. I am constantly challenging him to do push ups, racing him around the block, showing him my latest moves (recall the broken toe episode), but yesterday might have sealed the deal. Some of my fellow Boot Campers stopped by the Napa Valley Farmer’s Market after the race yesterday, and enjoyed Iced Cold Citrus Rooibos, the ultimate healthy re-hydrating beverage. Hmm…tea & boot camp, seems like a perfect match to me.

**remember to always consult your doctor before starting an exercise program

A Balancing Act- Eat More Cake

2009-09-20T11:42:00.000-07:00

Traveling can be challenging-- packing, setting the alarm for the crack of dawn, fighting the morning traffic, endless security lines, the mad rush to find bin space on the plane to stow your luggage, sitting next to an annoying person, then finally dying of thirst while hailing the attention of the flight attendant who's engrossed in the latest Enquirer. Like I said, challenging. Now, imagine adding to the mix, the amazing feat of having to do all of the aforementioned, while carrying a California Mission Fig and Blueberry Torte. Yes, I have truly lost my mind. The steps I'll take-- to not disappoint! How could I say no to the nice lady I met in the suburbs of Chicago? I was stunned by her generosity and genuine enthusiasm for life!

After a whirlwind week of early mornings, too many late nights yelling about Napa Valley at the top of my lungs (don’t ask), hoards of rich food and wine, my hour train ride out to the suburbs was a nice respite. Peace and quiet. Me, and my book, Julie & Julia. I was looking forward to a day without hustle and bustle. And, my wish came true: a civilized, successful and enjoyable day. It’s always revealing when you step off the merry-go-round of life, and see that serenity actually can exist. Enter, Ambrosia Euro-American Patisserie , located in Barrington, IL. Stopped in for caffeine, ended up enjoying bite-sized sweets, and chatting with the owner, Debbie, about life in general, and Napa Valley wine. Debbie and her family are celebrating 25 years of owning this exquisite pastry shop, a definite meeting spot for locals. As we said our goodbyes, she thrust a white cake box into my hands. I exclaimed, “What is this? I can’t take this!”. Debbie rebutted, “No, you must. It’s a California Mission fig tart mingled with Michigan blueberries.” We went back and forth, "But, I am travelling, no can, do.” Debbie replied, “ Oh, sure you can. The tart does not need to be refrigerated, and besides you said you were on your way to visit your family. You have to bring this to your Mom.” Okay, this is where Debbie sucked me in. She was right. What a cool gift to bring home to my family all the way from Chicago. I am nuts, for sure.

Envision: exhausted, worn out Wife of A Tea Drinker, sitting in the back of a taxi on the way to the airport, staring at a white cake box beside her. Hmm, maybe I should give it to the nice taxi man. He had giggled while he watched me heave my 500 pound computer bag (stuffed to the hilt) into the back of the cab, while balancing a cake box. Nah, I am not giving it to him. Instead, I sat there and planned my next step--security line. Having never travelled with a Mission Blueberry Torte before, would I run into trouble? I approached the lines, viewed my options, forged ahead with my computer bag slung over my aching shoulder (white cake box in hand) dragging carry-on luggage behind me. I stared ahead, stood up straight, exuded confidence, and attempted to make myself invisible. Impossible. Everyone wanted to know what was in the box. Would I share? Was I on my way to a party? Could they take a peek? Little old ladies smiled at me endearingly, bringing me back to why I was doing this in the first place, bonus points with the family. Okay, onward. As my torte exits the x-ray machine, the TSA security man yells, “Bag Check!” And rattles off some procedure that he would need to do (sounded like an ABTAB). I began to sweat. I am an idiot. I am an expert traveler, and here I am trying to smuggle a torte onto the plane. I looked up and the security man was laughing. "Ha. Ha. Just joking, give us a slice and we will let you through". I was not amused.

Next up, bathroom. As I was careening through the masses of Friday travelers, I muttered to myself, “I have to pee like a race horse”. I did not realize I was saying this out loud until those endearing looks of admiration turned to shocked stares. I hurried to the bathroom. Now, how the heck was I going to do this? Prioritize: computer bag goes into the stall with me; perch the cake box on top of my luggage right outside the door. Then, I narrowed my eyes and glared at the women in line, “This cake better be here when I get out!”. They snickered. From the stall I heard them conjecturing about the contents of the cake box. Was it a coconut cake, or maybe almond? Damn, I had to hurry it up-- these women were NOT to be trusted. They had sugar and carbohydrates on their minds. I had to move fast.

I won’t bore you with the details of boarding Southwest, but as I heaved and struggled down the aisle trying to find a safe place for me and my torte, no one offered to help, but several people threatened to steal my cake. I finally got settled; but was afraid to fall asleep. The flight attendant circled and the man next to me leered at the box on the seat between us. I placed my hand on top of it, and kept one eye open. I arrived in Buffalo in one piece, and was relieved when I saw Mom pull up immediately. As I gingerly and dramatically placed the cake box onto the front seat, I stated proudly that "I made it!". Mom did not seem the least bit surprised that I had a cake box. No comment. I had to laugh. I love Mom, never fazed or rattled by the unexpected. We enjoyed the torte later; it was delicious and tasted of marzipan, which is so comforting. Today, we are looking forward to our mid-afternoon slice and a steaming cup of Drink the Leaf tea.

Remember when the going gets tough, always bring cake.

Hit me with your best Shot! Fire away!

2009-09-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

This song, "Hit me with your best Shot" has been ringing in my head all day, along with a slight headache left over from last night’s libations. Yep, yours truly and the Tea Drinker mingled with Pat Benatar and her husband, Neil Girlado, last night. Well, not exactly. But we did go to a premier wine tasting, sampled delicious tidbits from Cyrus, watched Patricia belt out tunes from her past before an intimate crowd of about three hundred people, and then sat down for an Italian dinner under the stars prepared by Perbacco. Not soon after, my friends and I had our picture taken with Pat Benatar. Good stuff. Our dear friends invited us to this affair even though they know that I can’t whistle a tune nor could I identify a famous musical artist's lyrics if it jumped up and down in front of my face, and yelled, “I am a rock star, and have won a gazillion grammys, god dam’it!” Lucky for me, my friends are mostly amused by my ignorance or are just in plain awe that I grew up under a rock.

Much to my husband’s surprise, I confidently rattled off Pat Benatar’s songs to him on the way to the event. He gaped, wondering who stole his wife. I did not have the heart to confess that I actually looked up her songs on the Internet, beforehand. Pathetic, I know. I stated to my husband, "of course, I remember who Pat Benatar is- she’s famous and was on MTV". Dancing around, skinny in black jeans, with bounds of energy. How could I forget, I also owned a black leather jacket, wore tight jeans, lots of blue eye shadow, and had wild hair, too. It was the 80’s, after all. However, for the life of me, I could not name one of her songs, even if I stood to win money. Therefore, I was looking forward to seeing her in person, and catching up with the rest of the world; we were not disappointed.

What brought Pat Benatar to Napa? A music festival hosted by Staglin Family Vineyards benefiting research for mental illness. Tickets for the whole chibang ran anywhere from $750 to $5,000 a person. Did I mention that we have really great friends? Thank you! The Staglin Family Music Festival for Mental Health is in its 15th year. Over 57 million Americans live with mental illness. Staggering. The Staglin family has raised nearly 90 million dollars for brain research. Staggering again. This research is very personal to the Staglin family, and their story is inspiring. Brain diseases come from biochemical changes in the brain, and people who live with these disorders and those that love the afflicted, are in deep emotional pain and confusion. I applaud the Staglin Family for bringing this very important issue to the surface.

Today as I reflect back on the great time we had with our friends, I am grateful that we live in a community that gets involved and supports great causes. Many Napa Valley wineries donate thousands of dollars, wine, and time to countless meaningful charities nationwide. It feels great to be a part of this industry that makes a difference.

Be the first this week to order Drink the Leaf teas, and receive Pat Benatar's Summer Vacation 2001 Live CD. Please note "Fire Away" in the comment section.

Time to Light the Barbie

2009-09-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

As the Dog Days of Summer come to an end, we are cherishing this holiday weekend by relishing in each other’s company(wine helps), languishing in the backyard, and feasting on BBQ. Like most days, the hot topic always seems to revolve around food. We usually start with a theme, and then build from there. This weekend’s theme was all about lighting the grill, and enjoying barbecue. In hindsight, I should’ve documented our scrumptious meals and posted photos, but our stomachs took charge, and all that was left before us were empty plates. Success!

It’s not too late to squeeze in a couple more weekends filled with barbecue. Here are a few ideas for your next grill fest, and of course, tea suggestions to start your day off right!

Friday- Started our day with Huang Jin Gui Oolong

Homemade Pizzas on the Grill
We made a basic pizza dough in our bread maker. However, store bought pizza dough works fine, too. We like the Trader Joe’s brand. The best part of planning a pizza party is choosing the toppings. We like to make two pizzas, each choosing a pie, and taking it from ingredients to grill. The Tea Drinker made our favorite ‘order-in’ stand by, a traditional cheese pizza with black olives and onions. I took a stab at creating Pizza Azzurro’s spinach, garlic, red chilies, and ricotta pizza pie.

Our number one advice is not to be afraid! Grilling pizza can be fun.
· Heat Grill- either brush grill lightly with oil or coat with a non-stick oil spray
· Roll out dough right before it goes on the grill- Don’t worry if it’s not round- the shape does not matter.
· Brush dough with olive oil, and place the oiled side down on grill. Sometimes it’s easier to just flip the dough from the sheet pan right onto the grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes until crusty. Oil the other side, flip, and repeat!
· Remove dough from the grill and decorate with ingredients. Place back on grill, turn down the heat, close lid and grill until cheese or ingredients meld together.
· Slice, and serve with a crisp salad. Butter lettuce wedges topped with creamy blue cheese dressing worked perfectly for us.

Saturday- Started our day with House Ceylon
Barbeque-braised Thai Chicken Legs with a lemongrass glaze consisting of green curry paste, lots of scallions and ginger, served with side of spicy Thai noodles, and sweet and sour cucumber salad.

This recipe is compliments of Fine Cooking magazine. I am totally convinced this is how to grill chicken. It’s a bit of project, but well worth it. Just pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy the outdoors while grilling. You can basically use this technique with any type of meat. The steps involve starting a dry rub base, then searing the meat quickly on a hot grill. Next, braising the meat in liquid which also can be done on the grill, then finishing back on the grill for final cooking while basting with a glaze. The chicken was so moist and layered with flavors. We found that a gas grill works best, since you can control the temperature. I can’t wait to make this again. Try it, you will not be disappointed. Total cooking time about an hour, after marinade.

Sunday- Started our day with White Peony
Baby Back Ribs- slow cooked on a charcoal grill, served with Mac-n-Cheese, baked beans, and corn on the cob. Holy cow, what a feast! The Tea Drinker has been experimenting with ribs all summer long. He is attempting to perfect the ultimate Drink the Leaf house style. The key is in the rub and cooking the ribs over low heat for a lengthy period of time. Read here: have lots of cold beer on hand. Today, he chose Gary Wiviott’s rub- an aromatic mixture of dried ingredients- garlic, cayenne, paprika, thyme, chipolte, ancho and guajillo chili powders. Dash of salt and pepper, too. We made ours from scratch, but if in a pinch order on line at http://www.thespicehouse.com/. Baste the ribs with a high quality barbecue sauce towards the end of cooking. Also, serve some of the sauce on the side. Fall off the bone, finger licking good…

And for inquiring minds, I enjoyed a grilled Portobello mushroom "burger", and had extra helpings of mac-n-cheese.

Monday- Labor Day- Start day with Kawane Sencha
What to barbecue? Heck, forget that, we are going out to dinner, we're exhausted!

The "411"

2009-08-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday , I was on the phone catching up with my Dad, and I mentioned to him that I would need to call him back the next day with the “411”. There was a pause, then ”The what?!” In return, I paused, and treaded lightly, “Um…you know…like when you dial 411…and you ask for information on phone numbers and etc, the 411…” I waited for the backlash. Instead, my Dad burst into laughter, and told me about an article he read recently where “kids nowadays can't even write cursive, or spell, because they are too busy taking shortcuts”. You’ve seen it, you’ve texted it- replacing the English language with abbreviations. For, example: “ U enjoy DTL loose lea teas because its tasty and also good 4 you!” Easy enough.

My favorite pastimes are definitely reading and writing, but do I take short cuts? There is nothing better, than steeping a cup of tea, grabbing a book or journal, and settling into one of my favorite nooks, and drifting off to another place and time. Reading to me is an adventure, and should be treasured, no short cuts taken, here. Writing, on the other hand, is different. Its much easier to type on your computer, as to writing in a journal. Its faster, neater, and besides you can use spell check! Cruising the Internet is unlocking the door to information mania. The 411. Its immediate, jarring and exciting all at the same time. You can google any question that comes to mind. Why is my black Balloon Molly behaving strangely? How do you make paella? At what temperature do I steep green tea ? , just to name a few.

Here are some of my favorite “411” blogs/sites. Information at your finger tips.

• Eater – This blog provides basically the scoop on restaurants, chefs, nightlife, and all things related to finding your favorite grub. Currently Eater covers SF, NY, and LA, and is updated several times a day. The news covers the spectrum from top restaurants to dive bars. Follow celebrity chefs, and their latest whims. Perfect for me, since I am obsessed with restaurants, chefs, and food. And I am fortunate enough to travel to these cities, quite often, too. Its the ultimate 411.

• Daily Candy- Now this site is fun, whimsical, and packed with information. It’s the insiders daily guide to what’s new in travel, gourmet products, gadgets, and fashion. They cover 13 cities, and you can sign up to receive update on any or all of them. I am trying my hardest to get them to feature Drink the Leaf. Stay tuned….

• Twitter- See my previous post, What's all the flutter about Twitter? . Follow people on twitter that you admire or what to learn more about. Find out if they are still interesting in 140 characters or less! Currently I love reading Ruth Reichel’s posts. She is the editor in Chief of Gourmet magazine, and gives daily insight to what she is eating, and drinking. Tony Robbins, Life Coach Guru , posts great one liners on staying upbeat in every day life. Today’s line: “Put your guts on the line every day and your dream will come to life" . My husband, the Tea Drinker, is pretty entertaining , too. I usually can find out where we are going to dinner by following him…Today, looks like we are going to Boon Fly or Model Bakery for breakfast…

LMK about UR Fav 411 sites, and they better be good. LOL!

Walkin' Mr. Chai

2009-08-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

Our next door neighbors have two dogs: Fritz, a bark less dachshund, and a small bear-like Blue Chow Chow, named Chai. Yep, named after the tea. Roy & Patricia did not exactly name Chai after the tea per se ,but after their fondness for my husband, Dan, and his favorite passion- tea. So, as of late , the Tea Drinker has been taking Chai for his morning walks. Yesterday, I decided I would take the small bear for a walk around the neighborhood all by myself. Keep in mind, I have a cat- who basically has two positions-lying down and lying down. I admit, I was not prepared for this adventure.

Yesterday, I popped my head over the fence, and announced to my neighbor that Dan was at the Farmer’s Market peddling Drink the Leaf teas so he would not be able to take Chai for a walk. However, I would happy to do it, all by myself. Then, I confidently stated that I would be over in 15 minutes. I peeled Little One from her favorite resting spot in the backyard, under the Japanese Maple tree and put her in the house. Then, I grabbed my water bottle, put on my sneakers, did a few knee bends, and headed out the door. Oops- forgot one essential item- the plastic baggies. Ugh. Maybe, I should rethink this adventure ,after all.

As I made my way up their walkway, Chai came bounding down the path, and leaped at the gate, just above the sign that read, “beware of dog”. Hmm. He smiled or maybe leered at me, as Patricia, wrangled him and put his leash on. As Chai dragged me down the walk, the last thing I heard her say was, “Do you know how to hold the leash?”. I quickly tripled wrapped the leash around my wrist, and thrust my arm triumphantly into the air, and vanished around the corner. The first challenge was trying to keep up with Chai, as he pitched me forward on my tippy toes, and steered me down the sidewalk. All I could see in front of me was a huge tuff of black fur, and an occasional view of his blueish black tongue, lapping at the air. I held on for dear life trying to remember all the basics of dog walking. I peeled my eyes for any small animals or children, and prayed that parents kept them in side for the next 3o minutes.

As I started to relax, I realized that Chai was on a mission. He definitely knew his route, and was very polite and stopped at all crosswalks. I was impressed. And I was extremely impressed with his efficiency in marking trees on the fly. He was a Chow with direction, and hit the mark every time. Every once in a while, he would look back at me, to see if I was still attached to the other end of the leash, then he would take off with abandon. Maybe I could convince my Boot Camp instructors to implement this form of exercise into our routine. ( Move at mock speed, perched on the tips of your toes, your arm tightly stretched out- switch arms every few minutes, when pain sets in, and repeat for 3o minutes).

I knew a couple of things about Chai- he loved squirrels, or should I say he would love to have one for lunch. And, that he did this funny dance when he had to go, if you know what I mean. Dan had told me about the “poop zone”, near the park, so, I was prepared. On a side note, the Tea Drinker, is not amused that our yard is the poop zone for every other dog in the neighborhood. So, beware. Back to Chai, he is not like every other dog, he's choosy. He picked his spot, and I began to look over my shoulder, and to my dismay I had an audience. As one of my neighbors watched me try to hold Chai, and at the same time maneuver picking up the present that he left behind, I am sure he was thinking , this girl does not have a clue. Mission accomplished, Chai and I proceeded on, but now both of my arms were stretched out long- one with the leash, and one with the bag of goodies as far away from me as possible…

Then, my armed jerked suddenly, as Chai spied a squirrel or was it a small lap dog? Not sure, and I was not sticking around to find out. We turned back towards home as a young boy walked by, and stated: “Nice dog”. I proudly said, thanks. Then, a young couple rode by on their bikes, with their child trailing behind in a caboose(at least he was enclosed), and yelled, “look at that beautiful dog”. Yes, I was truly proud. I marched home feeling good, handed Chai back over and happily reported that I would be back tomorrow!

Drink Organic Chic Chai and live dangerously.

Photos: Baby Chai- 2007, Adult Chai 2009.

Summer Time, Paella Time!

2009-08-09T12:43:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite summer time dishes to prepare on the grill is Paella. Truth be told, I actually watch the Tea Drinker prepare this tasty meal, as I sit on my bum with a glass of rose in hand. Nonetheless, this dish is a perfect choice for a party. It’s a beautiful edible centerpiece. Take the time to prep your ingredients during the day while sipping your favorite Drink the Leaf ICED TEA , chill down a variety of Spanish wines, call up your friends and family, and let the fun begin.

Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that hails from Valencia using chicken, rabbit, snails, and fresh beans. I am happy to report that ours is quite different- no snails or rabbits here. What we love best about this dish is how versatile it is. Pick and choose the ingredients that you like and add them to the pan. The main ingredient is rice and you build from there.

Shopping List:
-Paella Pan we own two- one small for about 4 people, and a larger one that can feed up to 8. I love Paella pans, I am tempted to start a collection!
-½ cup of rice per person, Arborio works best
-1 cup of chicken stock per ½ cup of Rice
-5 threads of toasted saffron per person, dissolve in ½ cup of white wine. Saffron is expensive, but it is a necessary flavor component for this dish.
-Olive Oil
-1 chicken thigh per person, cut into 2 pieces
-½ spicy sausage per person, such as chorizo- we use spicy turkey Italian
-½ tsp Spanish paprika per person, a lovely sweet, smoky spice
-1 clove of garlic per person
-¼ cup of chopped onion per person
-1/8 cup of grated tomato, person
-2 Shrimp per person
-3 clams per person, manila
-2 mussels per person
-Red piquillo peppers cut in strips. We use jarred roasted red peppers.
-Frozen peas- couple of handfuls
-Lemon wedges
-Sour Cream- our secret ingredient
-Chopped Italian Parsley

Preparation:
We find that it’s easiest to prep all of your ingredients ahead of time, and then stage them in order of going into the pan. The most important ingredient that I left out above is: PATIENCE. So, pour yourself a glass of Spanish wine, visit with guests, and watch the show.

1) Heat Chicken Stock, keep warm
2) Toast Saffron in pan, slightly, add white wine, bring to boil, then remove from heat
3) Heat Paella pan over medium heat, add olive oil, enough to coat pan, add chicken pieces- cook until golden, and juice runs clear
4) Add garlic and onions – sauté until translucent
5) Add sausage, until just cooked through
6) Add rice, stir well until coated with oil.
7) Add paprika, grated tomato, stir in saffron wine, and hot stock.
8) Bring to boil, scraping up bottom of pan
9) Add red piquillo peppers, and peas
10) Bring to slow boil and let the broth cook down. Should take about 15-20 minutes. Do NOT stir the rice. You want to achieve the lovely caramelized flavor that occurs as the rice on the bottom of the pan creates a nice crusty layer. Considered by some, myself included, to be the best part.
11) Add seafood about 5 minutes before rice is done- al dente. The shrimp will turn pink, and the clams/mussels will pop open.
12) Remove from Grill – garnish with chopped parsley, lemon wedges, and a dollop of sour cream
Recipe adapted from various Spanish cookbooks.

Need an appetizer idea: Set out Spiced Spanish almonds, mixed olives, Manchego cheese and slices of fresh bread.

Enjoy!

As a side note, if you visit Napa Valley, and you are hankering for great paella- head to ZuZu. It’s a local favorite of ours.

True Bliss- Thirteen Years

2009-08-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

The Tea Drinker and I are celebrating our 13th Wedding Anniversary on Monday, August 3rd. Thirteen happens to be my favorite number. It’s probably because I was born on the 13th of May just over forty years ago. Thirteen is not just any ordinary number –it has a certain mystic to it. Being unlucky and all….As a young child, I loved bragging about my birthday number. I felt brave and edgy to have been born on the 13th, and if my special day landed on a Friday, it was even better! Double scary. So, here we are celebrating our 13th anniversary, and I happy to report I don’t feel scared at all. Just thrilled that I made the right choice thirteen years ago, when I said YES, looking over Lake Ontario, as our family and friends surrounded us with love.

We have had quite the adventurous time together. We are partners in this journey. Mutual respect, deep friendship, unwavering love, and lots of laughter have kept us solid these past thirteen years. And this is exactly what will bring us right through to our golden years, too. Our married life has been filled with lots of travel- our first adventure together after a year of dating was to drive across the country from Buffalo to California, we ended up back tracking to Colorado, and making that our home for seven years. Finally, a lucky number in the story! That first adventure revealed to me that Dan was the one. And, shortly after we first met, he took me to see the Phantom of the Opera in Toronto, which was telling to! Especially since years later I have learned that he would rather stick a sharp object in his eye than go to a musical. Ah well, at least he is still traveling with me.

So, it’s no surprise to us that our anniversary weekend involves a getaway to the Coast. Some years back, we were introduced to Sea Ranch. A lovely community that sits just right off HWY 1- near a small town named Gualala, which is north of Jenner, and south of Mendocino. I’ve read that Sea Ranch was quite popular back in the 50’s with the Hollywood crew- movie stars would trek to this area for downtime. The majority of the homes are rentals that are furnished, and most are equipped with a hot tub. We usually choose a home located on the Bluffs or Oceanfront with easy access to the many beaches that line the community. We love the notion of leaving our driveway, and 2 ½ hours later we are pulling up to a beautiful home located right on the Pacific Ocean. We unload all of our goodies, put them away, and immediately go for a walk down to the water. We return and start cooking! Paella, lobster rolls, chicken poblano chili are all on the menu for the weekend. The wine, tea, and conversation are flowing, and we are truly relaxed. A perfect anniversary filled with lots of love and laughter.

Pour yourself a cup of Drink the Leaf Red Peony, my favorite travel tea, and browse the rental website. Try to figure out which vacation home the Tea Drinker and the Wife chose this time. Email me your guess, and if you are correct- I will send you a package of this wonderful travel tea, gratis!

Join the "T-Club" Now

2009-07-26T17:15:00.001-07:00

A couple of years ago a great friend of mine who is an avid book reader gave me an excellent idea- she suggested that I should keep track of all the books that I read by writing them down. What a novel idea! Especially, since I am known to exclaim at dinner parties that I have just read the most amazing book- the guests stop talking, and all turn to look at me- but, then, of course, I can not remember the title or the author of this amazing book. Oh,well.

Today, I pulled out my T-Club book list, and took a trip down memory lane of my favorites. Year to date, I have read some interesting and inspiring books. Almost all of them have had the “content factor”. I tend to look for substance, as opposed to the popcorn read. Funny, because I could use an escape from daily life at times, but instead of the fast read, I crave books that have characters who possess moxie, as my Mom would say.

Here are a few of my recommendations for a great summer read- Don’t forget the tea pairing!

Power of One, Byrce Courtenay
Wholly Cow, pour yourself a strong brew- because you will not be able to put this book down. Prop your eyes open with toothpicks and prepare to read late into the night. This page turner tells the story of a young British boy and his childhood experiences in South Africa during World War II. A smattering of interesting characters weave in and out of this young child’s life, and time and time again young Peekay shows you just how far “positive thinking” can take you in life. The history of Apartheid is obviously in this book and shadows most of his encounters. Throughout Peekay's many adverse challenges and run-ins, you continue to root for him, and find yourself becoming one of his many cheerleaders. A very compelling read- that inspires you to treat everyone equally and give your best at everything you do in life.
Tea Pairing: Citrus Rooibos
Fittingly, this tea is made from the South African red bush. Its caffeine free and it's great served over ice. Don't worry, you will not need the caffeine push- the energy of this book will carry you through to the end.

Book of Negroes, Lawrence Hill
My sister-in-law who lives in Canada gave me this book for my birthday. It’s in the running for my favorite book of 2009. On the cover, it’s noted that this book was written by a highly regarded Canadian author, Lawrence Hill. Trust me; I plan to seek out his other books soon. I absolutely love books that are fictional but based on historical facts, and even better if they are written from a child’s perspective! Children tend to be extremely honest, and bring a certain realism to the story. This book follows a young African girl who was stolen from her village, and sold into slavery. Aminata Diallo is sent to South Carolina. Having been to Charleston many times, I can not help but think of the many who had faced similar experiences as this young girl did. She is a strong willed and determined young woman who learns to read and write, and through various experiences wins back her freedom. This book follows chapters of history that I was not that familiar with –The Book of Negroes, an actual document that recorded freed Loyalist slaves who requested permission to leave the US to resettle in Nova Scotia & the 1,200 former slaves that returned to Sierra Leone to recapture their culture and truly claim freedom. The account of Aminata’s life is a must read for anyone who is interested in history and loves stories that involve characters with TRUE grit.
Tea Pairing: Keemun Hao Ya A- my favorite morning cup- strong, bold and flavorful. You will be ready for anything that comes your way that day!

The Daily Coyote, Shreve Stockton
My Mom recently loaned this book to me. Uplifting, inspiring, fun, and an adventurous read. This book makes you want to quit your current life, jump in the car and drive to Wyoming. Don’t worry Tea Drinker- I will take you with me. Hey, I brought you to Napa! I love animals, and I love stories revolving around people and their pets. They are typically humorous, rewarding, and endearing. Read: Marley & Me. This book is a memoir about a young woman, Shreve Stockton, who leaves her NYC life behind, moves to a small, small town in Wyoming, lives in a cabin, stumbles upon a new boyfriend, and is given a 10 day old Coyote as a gift. Originally, Shreve is on a mission to write a memoir about driving across country on a Vespa, instead she begins chronicling her life with a Coyote. Check out The Daily Coyote Blog. Truly an uplifting memoir- and you find yourself living vicariously through her adventures!
Tea Pairing: Jade Oolong - a tasty brew that can stand up to multiple infusions, perfect for a page turner.

Other great reads: Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close and Three Cups of Tea. Pour yourself your favorite Drink the Leaf loose leaf tea.

Suggest your favorite Tea and Book pairing here.

The Tea Experience

2009-07-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

I read somewhere recently that Ancient monks drank tea to help them stay awake through many hours of mediating. The goal was to achieve a calm awareness, referred to as the “tea experience”. Scientists have since revealed that tea contains L-Theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and mental focus. I love this concept!

I am a fan of caffeine. My mind and body yearns for it first thing in the morning. There is no coffee in our house(dreadful, I know). I used to scramble to get to work to pour myself a cup of joe. However, if you have read my posts, most of you know that my husband has turned our house into a tea emporium. Things have changed. I now willingly begin my day with tea. It has to be black- of course, dare I risk missing out on getting a jump start to my day. My favorite morning teas are Keemun Hao Ya A, House Ceylon, and Red Peony. On a side note, as a frequent traveler, Red Peony is perfect for any journey. The tea leaves are tightly wound into a rosette, and all you have to do is plop it into your cup, and enjoy. Presto- you are calm and alert.

This concept of a calm awareness is intriguing. Who wouldn’t want to achieve that on a daily basis? Have all your ducks in a row, with a smile on your face. Just think- your day is jam packed- work, errands, house duties, children, husbands, wives, friends, pets, exercise, and what to make for dinner. All you have to do is drink tea all day and a calm aurora will magically appear and surround and protect you. Imagine people commenting about how calm, cool, and collected you are!

In all seriousness, I believe that the process of brewing and enjoying tea will create an experience that will calm you, regardless of caffeine. Many of the Tea Drinker’s customers are concerned about the harshness of coffee, and the negative effects of caffeine. They are looking for something cleaner, pure, and healthy. Loose leaf tea is the answer. We truly enjoy converting die hard coffee drinkers to tea. Give us your challenge, and we will help select the perfect cup for you. Just let us know whether you want to be calm and alert, or just calm! Your call.

Care to travel to Yunnan? Gold Tip!

2009-07-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

The Tea Drinker never ceases to amaze me. His knowledge and passion for tea continues to grow each day. All things Tea. We drink a lot of tea, read a ton about tea, and dream of visiting tea- growing regions. You guessed it, I am itching to travel. It’s been one year exactly since our visit to China. A trip that was packed with history, loads of tea, new sights and sounds, tasty morsels, and lots of laughter. I crave that adventure. Even though my work takes me on the road most weeks, I never tire of traveling to new places on my down time. I love to plan trips. True, most of our trips tend to revolve around food and wine. However, now we enjoy putting tea into the mix, too. Where to next. Back to China? Taiwan? Maybe hop over to Japan. What about South Africa to discover the fascination behind Rooibos? Stay tuned.

Back to the Tea Drinker, this week he is excited about a new tea that he recently added to the Drink the Leaf’s portfolio- Yunnan Gold Tip. Sounds like an expensive pen, or cigar. Nope, this tea is from Yunnan, a province in Southeast China. Yunnan is rumored to be the founding home of “Camellia Sinensis”. Now, that is exciting. To visit the birthplace of tea. This region borders Assam, Burma, Laos, and South China. Teas from this region are known to be full-bodied, bold, and robust in flavor. Black and Pu-erh teas proudly lead the pack. Right up my alley.

Yunnan Gold Tip- Our star tea this week. A high quality tea that goes through an arduous process. The young buds and tea leaves are hand-picked, then placed in the sun to wither and dry. The dried leaves then undergo pile fermentation; water is sprayed onto the leaves, covered with hemp fabric to prevent any of the heat from escaping. This environment jump starts the fermentation process, where the tips of the buds will turn gold, instead of black. The leaves are turned very carefully by hand, taking great measure to not break any of the golden tips. This process results in a tea that is rich, yet smooth in flavor.

Here are our notes from a recent tasting of this wonderful tea. Attractive to look at- wiry tea leaves with golden tips. Clear, bright golden orange and brown hue. Medium-full bodied and smooth. Malty and dried apple notes lead to a great finish.

Pour yourself a cup of Yunnan Gold Tip, and let your mind wander to a faraway place. Truly peaceful.

Gone Fishing!

2009-06-27T07:21:00.001-07:00

A brief posting from Buffalo, NY. The Tea Drinker and I are visiting family to celebrate his parent's 50th Wedding Anniversary. Congratulations, Mops & Pops! A weekend filled with family, laughter, great food, wine and, of course, tea. Stay tuned for next weekend's posting, all things tea.

P.S. To answer the inquires of whether or not I ran into Chef Bobby Flay last weekend in Aspen...let's just say, he was called out of town for an important engagement. Oh, well next time.

"Free the Tea"

2009-06-19T17:52:00.000-07:00

That’s it- I am on a new mission- “Free the Tea”.

As some of you are aware, I am in the wine industry, and something that we follow very closely is the “who and where” we can ship wine to in the United States. The coalition, Free the Grapes, is a national mix of consumers, wineries, and retailers all on a mission to remove restrictions on winery direct shipping. Basically, people want their wine, and we want to get it to them. Simple. Not really, but one would think so. On the flip side, Drink the Leaf can ship anywhere, anytime. We believe in freedom, too. We want to free tea in a different fashion. Loosen the constraints; offer a healthier, fresher, better tasting beverage to everyone. Yes, I am talking about that dreaded “tea ball”, and dare, I whisper, bagged tea. Come on people; let your tea breathe…

Join me in this cause- “Free the Tea”. Kick up your heels, let your hair down, and get wild. Spread the word, and drink loose leaf teas. Hands down, tea brewed from a loose leaf tea is a better tasting cup. Bagged teas or commercially available teas tend to be fragments of tea, and of a lesser quality. You wonder to yourself how long has that tea been sitting on the shelf. Trust me, once you go loose leaf, you will be squishing up your nose, when someone offers you bagged tea. With loose leaf, the aromas and flavors just pop. Plus, there is a basic enjoyment of the ritual of steeping tea. Watching the leaves unfurl to release a cup that is clean and fresh, there is nothing better. Use an infuser and dispel the myth that brewing loose leaf tea takes longer to prepare. I love showing people the Timolino Infuser, it’s my favorite party trick. Email me and I will help you choose a strainer/infuser that will work best for your lifestyle.

Free the Tea, Free the Tea, Free the Tea. Now, I Just need a cool logo like Free the Grapes. Tea in shackles is a bit too much…

Five More Days 'til Bobby Flay!

2009-06-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry, Tea Drinker. But, at the end of this week, my eyes will be peeled for a sighting of the Grill Master, Bobby Flay. He is expected at the Aspen Food & Wine Classic. Truth be told, all wine aside, I will be in pursuit of another Bobby "How to Grill" cookbook. To my friends, I promise NOT to utter the following words to Chef Bobby: “ I am your biggest fan”. This was a rookie move I made a few years ago after spotting Chef Mario Batali dining with his wife at a local Aspen restaurant. Mario stared at me blankly, as my friends ran away mortified. I admit, I can be a bit star struck. This is what happens to mere mortals after Food Network sinks its teeth into you. Heck, ten years ago, I shared “fiddle faddle” and an alochol-doused banana smoothie with Mario and fellow Chefs at an after hour's party in Aspen. Who knew how famous these Chefs would become? I still crack up over that one.

So, today, in honor of my Bobby Week, we broke down and bought a One Touch Weber Charcoal grill. Our Weber Gas Grill will still remain a part of the family, but it’s now time to move back to the basics, and the art of grilling. The Tea Drinker is eagerly awaiting for me to hit the road to Aspen, so that he can experiment with baby back ribs. Until then, Grilled Turkey Burgers will have to suffice. Check out Bobby's featured recipes in the July issue of Food & Wine Magazine.

Grilled Turkey Burgers- simple, and delicious.

1 ½ pds. Ground turkey
1 Red onion, sliced
Smoked Gouda cheese
Hamburger Buns
3 TBSP Dijon mustard
2 TBSP whole grain mustard
1 TBSP prepared horseradish
1 TBSP honey

Directions
1. Light a grill. Brush the onion with oil and grill until charred and softened, about 5 minutes. Brush the cut sides of the buns with oil and grill until toasted, about 30 seconds. Set aside.
2. Form the ground turkey into four 1-inch-thick patties and brush with oil. Season with salt and pepper and grill over high heat, turning once, until nearly cooked through, about 10 minutes.

3. Top with the Gouda, close the grill and cook until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked through, about 1 minute longer.

4. In a small bowl, combine the mustards, horseradish and honey and spread on the bottom half of the buns. Top with the burgers and onions.
Adapted from Food & Wine Magazine

Grilled Passila & Anheim Peppers, stuffed with Monterey Jack Cheese

2 Large Peppers( Jalapeno, Anheim, or Passila)
1/2 cup of shredded cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Sharp Cheddar
1 tsp minced garlic
1 TBSP of chopped cilantro
2 slices of Bacon- you guessed it, I like to use Turkey bacon.

1. Take each pepper and create a slit along the top, scoop out seeds.
2. Mix together cheese, garlic, cilantro, salt and pepper, to taste
3. Stuff peppers with cheese mixture. Wrap a slice of bacon around pepper, and secure w/ tooth pick, if needed.
4. Light the grill. Takes about 4 minutes per side, until cheese is melted. Enjoy!
( from my archives)

We drank Behrens and Hitchcock’s 2003 “The Contender” with our burgers. Quite tasty. After dinner we moved on to Ghirardelli Intense Dark Espresso Escapes. Highly recommended. Then Tea Drinker settled in, grabbed the Food & Wine Magazine, and exclaimed “Bobby is using a Gas Grill in this photo!” … Ah, well…the fantasy was good while it lasted.

By the way, if I do run into Bobby next week while sipping a margarita at Jimmy’s , I will challenge him to a throwdown. Tequila has that effect on me. Stay tuned.

First Came Loose Leaf Tea, now Fish?

2009-06-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

Last weekend’s post about our twelve new fish resulted in an uproar with our cat, Little One. How dare we? She has lived in this house for almost eleven years- first came all the fuss about tea, now fish? This was the ultimate insult. Little One became a part of our family to keep the Tea Drinker company while I was away on business trips. They became inseparable- Little One watches his every move, always at his side, and peering over the keyboard as he processes orders for http://www.drinktheleaf.com/. And for me, I would return from my business trips, and see that where I laid my head down at night just a week before was now a welcoming pile of kitty hair. Touching. All kidding aside, Little One loves me too. Who else would feed her scraps from our dinner?

But fish, come on! They aren’t supposed to be made a fuss over. They are supposed to be in a can that we open, and reward Little One with while she twirls and wraps herself around our legs. Pure purring bliss. Now, the tables have turned, and we are feeding fish, instead of opening a can of her favorite treat.

How do we make it up to her? She loves to be outside and eat grass. Problem number one, is that she is an inside cat- and is not allowed outside without supervision. Yes, I am a strict Mom. Problem number two, the only yard we have is in the front of the house near the street. The back of our house is all paved patio. Solution? Plant grass in a pot and put in a shady area under the potato vine. Check out Little One’s reaction to this idea (see above photo). Man, these fish are really starting to get on her nerves...

Hurry up, and use the “twelve fish” discount, while I still have fish. Try Red Peony this week. No fuss, no muss.

**Enter “Twelve Fish” in the coupon code, and receive 20% off any Drink the Leaf product.

One Fish, Two Fish, Three Fish-

2009-05-31T11:34:00.000-07:00

Twelve. That’s how many fish I have. One week ago the Tea Drinker gave me an Aquarium for my birthday. I have always wanted one, but never expected to actually own one. We have had many conversations back and forth over the years that went much like this---“You can’t have one, who would clean it, who would feed the fish, who would take out the floating ones?” Okay, we both know the answers to all of those questions. The same person that waters the plants, mows the lawn, feeds the cat, and cleans out the litter box- the Tea Drinker. So, how could I argue with that? Instead, I continued to decorate our bathroom with all things fish. Maybe that is what finally pushed him over the edge. And that’s why, this gift was so special, because it came with the caveat that my husband was agreeing to all the reasons why he told me we would never own an aquarium.

We were like expectant parents. Staging the baby room. First, came the aquarium stand, and choosing where we would put our crib. It had to go some where that was stable, and with out sunlight beating down on it, and needed to be easy to get to. Next, came choosing the gravel and plants, and filling the 14 gallon tank. Then we proceeded to get up three times a night to make sure we had not flooded our living room. Plus, the temperature and the GH, KH,pH,NO2, and the NO3 of the tank water had to be just right, before we could put little fishies in it. So, we waited a week while our tank sorted itself out. We could hardly stand it, we were so excited to go live! How many fish could we have? Our trusty local fish expert pointed out that size does really matter. The tank could probably hold only ten to fifteen fish. We chose five different types, and were told to start with one species, and add a new one each week.

We chose the first species- Balloon Mollies. I chose three- one black, one white, and one a blend of black and white. I must have issues if I am color coordinating my fish! Dan humored me and we left the store proud parents. We put our fish directly into the tank on Friday night, and on Monday morning discovered that we had a family of twelve. How does this happen? Pandemonium broke out. What were we to do? We weren't prepared. We were new aquarium owners. We aren't experts in the mating rituals of fish. We still don’t know who the culprit is, and no one has fessed up. They are just going about their business, while we try to figure out how to feed and nurture nine little baby fish smaller than the tip of my pinky nail. After much reading, surfing the net, and consulting the fish guy, we now have a mini-aquarium floating in our 14 gallon tank. Each morning, we wake to grind fish flakes to a fine powder and feed the babies on a regular basis. And, yes, we are still getting up in the middle of the night, and reporting to each other the head count every day.

Next up is cleaning the tank. As I write this the Tea Drinker has a tube, a bucket, a towel all in hand, and is about ready to tackle this next task. The gift that keeps on giving. I haven't had the heart to tell him that I read that our Mollies might make this a habit and give us a gift every 60 days...I am lucky girl.

What does all this have to do with tea? Nothing. Except that Dan told me that if I hurry up and write this he will offer our readers a fish discount for a limited time only. Enter “Twelve Fish” in the coupon code, and receive 20% off any Drink the Leaf products. I recommend trying White Peony this week. (remember to click recalculate to apply discount)

Bored? Think of Loose Leaf Tea Clues

2009-05-24T12:27:00.000-07:00

The opposite of black is brown. Well, not exactly. But this was the clue that I gave last weekend while playing the board game Taboo with friends. Typically, I do not like board games, and this one was no different. Taboo is a game where you break up into teams, and try to get your team member to call out the word on the card drawn from the stack. Scenarios, thoughts, words and ideas are tossed around, all without using any of the obvious taboo words(also listed on the drawn card). The entire time, an opposing player looks over your shoulder making sure you do not give away any of those taboo clues, resulting in an unfair advantage. Ticking in the background is a timer, reminding you that you better get a move on with your witty self.

My aversion to board games stems from childhood. Doesn’t everything tie back to childhood? I remember panicking during Scrabble, Battleship, Pictionary, and even Mr. Potato Head! The only game that I did enjoy was Clue. This classic murder-mystery game set in a mansion, revolves around one of the guests who was killed. Telling…The idea was to solve the mystery, and answer the questions who, where, and with what. I think I liked the idea of solving a mystery, as well as, being a guest at a party that was held in a mansion.

Back to Taboo, I have to admit that I did have some fun, mostly at the expense of myself, and the wine consumed was a huge plus. However, here’s a card that I wished that I had pulled- Tea. Of course, I probably could not have used any of the following Taboo words: Black, Green, Oolong, leaves, bags, caffeine, China, coffee, English, water, steep, herbal, Camellia Sinensis, or Drink the Leaf. But, I am sure I would have confidently rattled off the following non-taboo clues to my teammate:

2nd most consumed beverage in the world
All types are born from the same plant, which is native to Asia
Has existed for almost 5,000 years
High in anti- oxidants, helps with digestion, insomnia, and appetite
Not just for afternoon, can be consumed morning, noon, and night
Healthy, natural, organic, clean, refreshing, and soothing
Much like wine, sight, smell, taste, and touch are important when evaluating this beverage
Color, fragrance and flavor are enhanced by the varietal, season, elevation, climate, soil, geographic location, and creative hand of the grower
A single pound yields 180 cups
You do not need to raise your pinkie in the air when drinking this

Alas, this did not happen, and I pulled other cards like, crème de menthe. Doesn’t everyone know that my Mom enjoys this over her ice cream? Where’s a clue when you need it!

Comment here about your favorite board game. I will forward it to my friends…

Can You Say Rooibos?

2009-05-17T13:31:00.000-07:00

Rooibos, pronounced “Roy-boss”, is very fashionable these days. It’s attractive to look at, healthy to be around, and makes you feel cool. You would think that I am referring to the latest trend in work out wear. Nope, Rooibos is tea, well, not really tea, but something similar to tea. Hard to follow, I know. I decided I needed to know more about this popular beverage. My research started this weekend at the Farmer’s Market, as I watched the Tea Drinker sell one bag of Citrus Rooibos after another. He had an iced-version of this tea on hand for consumers to try. It was refreshing, cool, and flavorful. A hint of lemon and sweetness, but with out being sugary. All natural. The sample was certainly a hit, and Dan quickly sold through what he brought to the market.

Rooibos is attractive to most, because it’s healthy, caffeine free, and tasty. It is also packed with anti-oxidants, and has low tannins. Not as astringent as black tea, and there is no worry of “over steeping” Rooibos, as it does not become bitter. Studies have shown that drinking Rooibos can help with digestive problems, insomnia and even allergies! Sign me up.

This popular “tea” hails from Africa, and is also known as African Red Bush. However, the bush is actually green! Found in the heart of South Africa, in the Cedarberg region near Cape Town. I can feel a “research” trip coming on…Like tea, the leaves are harvested, oxidized and fermented, before being left out to dry in the hot African sun. This is where the color of the leaf turns to that deep reddish hue. Steep this tea, an it will result in a striking orange-reddish color, and give you a beverage that is all natural. No coloring, additives, or preservatives. Sign me up again.

Drink the Leaf offers three types of Rooibos, all are flavored with natural ingredients. Citrus, Blueberry, Masala Chai. Drink hot or cold. Either way its refreshing, and healthy.

Start today!

Happy Mother's Day- Charleston, SC

2009-05-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

USA Today ran an article in this weekend’s edition named 10 great places for memories with Mom. It just so happens that I am in one of those fabulous places -Charleston, SC- and Mom is with me. We are celebrating her birthday, as well as her being the best MOM worldwide. She is my number one cheerleader, and President of the Drink the Leaf Fan Club . Mom has never been to Charleston, so it was a perfect meeting spot. I spent the week leading up to our getaway working the Hilton Head and Charleston market. It was productive, successful, and encouraging. Wine sales were great. I love the South- it's rich with history, and the hospitality is warm, genuine, and refreshing. Charleston has a way of transporting you back to another time, and I find myself daydreaming of what it would have been like to live here during the 1700’s. However, being a Yankee, I’m not so sure I would have been allowed to stay!

Our weekend was filled with experiences like strolling through cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, all the while taking in the confederate jasmine-scented air. It’s truly intoxicating. With the warm breeze against our skin, surrounded by some of the oldest buildings in our nation’s history, we felt honored to be able to spend the weekend in this charming city. We spent most days planning what and where to eat, and then wandered the town until nap time! A highlight was a Mother’s Day horse drawn carriage ride through the residential areas. Our tour was conducted by “Rebel St. Clair”. “Rebel” hails from Washington; she moved here 8 years ago, and is a tour guide by day and romance novelist by night. Rebel and her trusty horse, John, led us up Church Street to the Battery, and back down Meeting Street. She shared Charleston’s memorable history and left us with having a greater appreciation for this truly unique city. I highly recommend the carriage tours.

Today, as we ducked into a bar to avoid an impromptu downpour, we recapped our weekend festivities. We enjoyed lots of fresh seafood, all with a southern twist; food highlights were fried oysters, shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, parmesan crusted flounder over lemon risotto- of course, all chased down with loads of delicious wine. We did not have any tea, but I did share stories about the Tea Drinker joining me for a weekend here a few years back. We basically ate our way back and forth through this city, and then back again. The highlight of that trip was visiting the only tea plantation in the United States, located just outside of Charleston. Dan and I had the pleasure of attending a Tea Festival celebrating the harvest. It resulted in a funny experience. We set out in our rental car armed with a GPS. I punched in the location -Wadmalaw Island. We got lost in conversation as we followed our trusty GPS, traversing through roads lined with moss covered oak trees, and ended up in the depths of a dense marsh. Our GPS chirped, “You have arrived at your destination”. Without a Camellia Sinensis in sight, we realized that our GPS had taken us to the dead center of Wadmalaw Island. Oops. Hey, who do you know that has actually been to the exact center of Wadmalaw Island??

I digress. The weekend with Mom was great, and tonight we look forward to dining at a well-known Relais & Chateaux restaurant. Last time I dined here, I devoured the tempura fried soft shell crab served with pimento cheese grits. I am keeping my fingers crossed that it will be on the menu tonight.

To recap, Mom told everyone she met, "From my first step onto the gorgeous tree-lined streets of Charleston, I was already planning my next trip back!" I have to agree. We will definitely be back.

So, go ahead and pour yourself a cup of soothing Drink the Leaf Organic Jasmine Pearl and dream of the fragrant, confederate jasmine-lined streets of this beautiful city, and plan to take your Mom to Charleston. Do it this year. Great resource: www.tripadvisor.com

Farmer’s Market – Napa Style

2009-05-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday kicked off the Farmer’s Market season in Napa Valley. There is a new location, new vendors, and a new found enthusiasm. We look forward to each Saturday morning mingling with our community, and hearing direct feedback about Drink the Leaf loose leaf teas. There is no better focus group than your community!

The Tea Drinker will need to put sleeping in on Saturday mornings behind him until the end of October. Moving forward the alarm will be set for 6am, the truck loaded with tea and props, the kettle on- all ready for lift off at 6:45am. The market opens at 7:30am, and goes straight through until noon. Yesterday morning was cool and rainy, and in our opinion, a perfect day for a steaming cup of Keemun Hao Ya A.

After my early morning torture, I stopped by the booth to offer my congratulations and support to my husband. Wishing him another successful summer filled with loads of new tea fans and ambassadors all spreading the word about http://www.drinktheleaf.com/. As I chatted with Dan, it was great to see past customers, and win over new friends with tea. Everyone is there for the same cause- to support local businesses. Or maybe they just don't feel like cleaning the house or mowing the lawn. That works for us, too.

This will be our 3rd market, and every year we walk away with new loyal customers that continue to seek us out the rest of the year. We look forward to continuing this trend. So, come by and see us, and bring your friends . Pick up fresh and locally grown produce, a bag of your favorite tea, and head home and make a tasty brunch for your family.

Farmer’s Market Frittata

Serve with a side of mixed greens tossed with olive oil and white wine vinegar. Treat yourself to a handful of Organic strawberries. Chase it all down with a mug of Jade Oolong. Or if you are like me, a refreshing glass of Sauvingnon Blanc will suffice.

4 eggs
1/8 cup non-fat milk
Pinch of cayenne
Pinch of salt
Pinch of pepper
Feta Cheese- crumbled
**Whisk the above ingredients in a bowl

Organic cauliflower – thinly sliced, 1 cup
Olive Oil

Heat olive oil in pan, cook cauliflower about 5 minutes until golden. Sprinkle lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Add egg mixture- stir to combine. Heat for 3-4 minutes- transfer to oven (heated at 350) and cook for 15 minutes. (Make sure your pan is oven proof. If not, pour mixture into oven proof dish.) Remove pan from oven, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes. Serve warm or room temperature. Delicious, and healthy.

Serves 2
Recipe adapted from Food Network

Support your local farmer's market today!
Napa Location- Napa Valley Wine Train parking lot. Website coming soon.

Lap Pat Dok ( Tea Leaf Salad)

2009-04-26T18:15:00.000-07:00

“ I don’t think Burmese Food is a good idea.” -Is what the Tea Drinker moaned to me this morning, as he was lying in bed. That’s what he thinks- I had it all planned out. The “good idea” was already in my head, and I was eager to hit the road to Mingalaba Restaurant in Burlingame. The night before at a wine tasting I met a young couple who were vegetarian, and ate mostly ethnic food. Of course, I inquired of their favorite restaurants in the area. They immediately told me about Mingalaba. I asked them to write it down, since to me it sounded like- “Mama Mia”, and I was pretty sure that was not a Burmese restaurant.

We headed out, and using my nifty i-phone, I rattled the menu off to Dan while he was driving. “Don’t worry, we can order light”. “Look, they have Green Papaya salad”, and then, I sealed the deal with Lap Pat Dok (tea leaf salad). Whew. I was getting worried, that we would end up somewhere safe, like a café shop- sipping lattes, and eating west coast bagels. Enjoying a Tea Leaf Salad sounded like an adventure, and could surely transport us to another culture.

Burma, currently called Myanmar, shares borders with India, China, Laos, and Thailand. Burmese food pulls from each one of these culinary havens, bringing together a wonderful array of spices, and ingredients. Lap Pat Dok is a salad that is centered around Burmese tea leaves. Tea is not only drunk in Burma, it’s also eaten!

The tea is fermented or pickled, and the appearance is almost similar to a pesto or paste. The Lap Pat Dok is typically prepared table side by your server. With the Burmese tea leaves in the center of the plate, our server pointed out the other ingredients: tomatoes, green cabbage, dried grounded shrimp, fried garlic, sesame seeds, peanuts, split yellow peas, and chiles. She then proceeded to squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the leaves, and fold in the array of ingredients creating a delicious and delightful salad. It was a wonderful mixture of tangy citrus, highlighted by crunchy treats. We backed the salad up with House Special Noodles. One of the restaurants popular dishes- flat noodles that tasted homemade and melted in your mouth tossed with coconut chicken, shredded lime leaves, yellow peas ground to a fine powder, topped off with a combination of onions and thin noodles that were fried. Need I say more?

I would love to prepare Lap Pat Dok at home. Not sure, where I would find Burmese tea leaves, or how one would go about pickling their tea leaves. Maybe a vodka party? Okay, sorry. I am giddy from the all that caffeine in the salad. In any case, I have the Tea Drinker on the project.

Enjoy more Ethnic Food...

P.S.

By the way, the reason behind why the Tea Drinker felt that Burmese food was not a good idea was because he was still reeling from a food hangover. The night before after my wine seminar, we had dinner at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay. No Burmese food in sight, but a setting along the coast backed by a multi-course meal perfectly paired with a different wine for each course. Dan’s menu consisted of an appetizer of Dungeness crab salad mixed with avocado cream, mid-course of glazed pork belly accompanied by creamy polenta, onto a very filling main course of braised short ribs alongside pureed Yukon gold potatoes and rainbow cauliflower. Dessert was chocolate upon chocolate. The wines consisted of a Pinot blanc from Alsace, a Crozes-Hermitage, a lovely Syrah based wine from the Northern Rhone, and a Banylus, a fortified French wine. Now, you can see why I had to work my magic to get Dan to go to out for Burmese food. He thinks that the tea business is exhausting, try peddling wine!

Honey, I am home!

2009-04-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hello, and greetings from the road! I am in Orchard Park, NY, and am taking a "bye-week"- I believe that is a Football term?! Appropriate, since I am in the hometown of the Buffalo Bills. In any case, I am taking a pass on posting something brilliant today. The picture to the left was emailed to me by the Tea Drinker. Apparently, we have some visitors at our home in Napa Valley. Is Dan trying to tell me something? Is he now in the honey business, too? Well, it would be a perfect match with http://www.drinktheleaf.com/ teas. Stay tuned, as I may post later this week- Oh, the suspense!

How to Grill a Whole Fish, or Not

2009-04-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

The Tea Drinker was quite adventurous this weekend. He began Saturday as suspected by making me a wonderful robust cup of Vithankande tea, and then he announced that he was willing to join me and 30 other campers for an early morning Boot Camp class. We ran, skipped, lunged, leaped, and shuffled our way to health. It’s a mysterious thing after boot camp, you are immediately energized, and feel like you can face the day, and tackle anything. That is until this feeling of "super human" powers wears off later, and you’re staring at your half-eaten meal. Now wait a minute, I am getting ahead of myself...

After Boot Camp, we trooped off to Model Bakery. Doesn't everyone reward themselves after strenuous exercise with homemade English muffins right out of the oven, slathered in butter, and apricot jam? No? Well, we do. It was the weekend, after all. We were headed home for a day packed with house cleaning, yard work, and menu planning for Easter, until the Tea Drinker declared that we were going to grill a whole fish! The euphoria was definitely running high. It sounded exciting to me. I was game. So, we set off to Whole Foods.

How hard can it be to grill a Whole Fish? Put it this way, we should have started with smelt, or maybe miniature sardines from Monterey bay. At Whole Foods, we talked to the fishmonger, and decided on a 3 pound black cod, gutted, and scaled. We put a few other things in our basket, such as broccoli rabe, olives, lemons, fontina cheese, Italian Peasant bread, and a nice Italian white wine. We had a theme, and we were running with it!

We started the evening by enjoying a watered down version of a Negroni, a refreshing Italian cocktail that consists of gin, campari, sweet vermouth, and lots of soda water. Next up, we steamed the broccoli rabe, then chopped the florets and stalks, tossed with fresh garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, and a splash of red wine vinegar. With grilled slices of the fresh peasant bread in hand, we topped it with the broccoli rabe mixture, and grated fontina cheese. This was all enjoyed while sipping a very nice dry Falanghina from the Campania region of Italy.

We pulled out Mario Batali’s – Simple Italian Food. We were off to a roaring start! We lit the grill, poured ourselves another glass of wine, took the fish out of the refrigerator, and then an odd feeling came over me. A daunting feeling, like the first time I cooked a Thanksgiving turkey. We had Mario’s book by our side, and the words jumped off the page at us -“to grill a whole fish requires confidence that only experience can bring….to over cook a whole fish is better than under cooking by a few seconds…” and “practice before serving it to the President’s wife…” Geez, now politics are involved!

Sprinkled only with salt and pepper, and brushed with olive oil, the whole fish went right on to the barbecue. We turned it every 3 to 4 minutes for a total of 14 minutes. We stared in agony as our fish withered, and fell apart before our eyes. The black cod came off the grill undercooked, and had to be finished in the oven under the broiler. Oh, heck. It did not look appetizing, and our confidence waned. So, we abadonded the grill, and dived into Kara’s Cupcakes, instead. Its at this point that the Tea Drinker decided to work off his sugar high by demonstrating his new found Boot Camp move- a version of a squat, push up, jump thrust into the air. Result: a broken big toe. No kidding.

To grill a fish, or not!

What’s all the flutter about Twitter?

2009-04-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

That is what I am trying to figure out. So, I just dove in, signed up for a Twitter account, and began “tweeting”. Do I even know what tweeting is? Not really. I owned a parakeet once, but I feel that this may be a bit more profound. It certainly did not stop me from convincing the Tea Drinker to sign up, too. I am fascinated by social networking. There is so much information to be had by using the Internet. My number one goal is to help my husband get Drink the Leaf’s name out there. That’s my role as the Wife of a Tea Drinker!

As Twitter’s website states: “...a service for friends, family, and co-workers to communicate...stay connected...through quick, frequent answers to one simple question: What are you doing?” You have to answer this question in 140 characters or less. I love that. And as you type, the ticker counts down the characters. I love that pressure, too. You better be doing something interesting. Who wants to read that you are doing nothing? Or that you had Eggs Benedict for breakfast. People may want to know where you had those eggs, though.

To offer useful information is even better, yet. This is what sucked me into Twitter. You can follow individuals that have a wealth of knowledge, and the best part is that these people are are willing to share this information. It can also give you the objective to strive for something interesting to talk about -to answer that question-What are you doing???

How can Twitter help your business? The key is to “follow” other user’s tweets, which are text based updates. I typed in “tea”, and hundreds of names popped up, from business owners, organizations, tea enthusiasts, to tea bloggers. A great way to communicate and connect with knowledgeable people that share the same passion as you: loose leaf tea. These short messages are sent to you, and if something catches your eye, you can read that person’s profile, and learn more about them and their business. Reciprocating seems to be the protocol. If you follow someone, they follow you. Celebrities twitter, too. I heard recently that Kirk Douglas ( for crying out loud, he is 92 years old, and is using Twitter) is now using this social media.

Check it out, and sign up to follow us on Twitter. It's free. We promise to bring you interesting, and useful information. Hurry up, and join. There still seems to be plenty of room with only 5 million users tweeting up a storm. Now, that is social networking!

Camellia Sinensis Meets Master Gardener

2009-03-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

Spring has arrived, and it’s that time of year when Dan & I stare at our yard, and discuss a game plan for the planting season. We yearn for a great looking yard- one that you can sit back and enjoy at the end of your day with a chilled glass of rosé in hand. Doesn't everyone strive for this? Wine time on the patio is just not the same when you are staring at dead plants, and weeds. A colorful array of plants or a patio that is tidy, gives you a sense of accomplishment. When your outdoor living space is not done, or overgrown, or “hodge podgey”- which is how I describe our yard- you feel frustrated, and grumpy!

This year instead of throwing plants at the yard, seeing what sticks, and what whithers and dies, we hired a Master Gardener to come over for a consultation. At 8am on Saturday morning, the door bell rang. There was Sue- with clip board in hand. My palms began to sweat; I felt like she could see through us, and peer into our souls. Thinking...these people haven't a clue about taking care of plants. But, she opened her mouth, and said, “Hey, you’re the tea man!” Yep, that’s right, we may not know diddly about plants, but we certainly know our Camellia sinensis, Drink the Leaf's mother plant. So, we offered her a cup of one of our best green teas- Organic Lu' An Melon Seed, and set out the front door.

Sue was wonderful. She complimented us on how our yard looked, and told us that the plants that we had were healthy and beautiful. She praised Dan’s pruning abilities. And then, she took out her pencil, tape measure, and got to work. With in an hour, she had helped us design our front and back yard. We will be removing only one plant, and moving two others to a more suited spot. She worked with what we had and inserted her recommendations, which resulted on paper ,a transformed yard, that we could not wait to see. The best part is that she gave us a list of plants that are easy to find at our local nursery, MidCity. I was impressed that Sue rattled off all of the plants by calling them by their Latin name. Thank heavens, she wrote them all down. And gave us a key of where each plant went in the diagram.

We spent the rest of the afternoon, researching our new plants on-line. This week, we hope to head to the nursery to view them in person. Next step, we need to convince someone else to plant them. No kidding, I am not doing yard work. Obviously, this is how we got into this predicament in the first place!

Check out our soon to be new friends in the yard:

Coleonema Pulchrum- An evergreen shrub with soft needles, pink flowers, that sways in the breeze.

Polygala myrtifolia 'Grandiflora' - Sweet Pea Shrub. -An evergreen shrub that grows 5 to 7 feet tall. Perfect for under our dining room window. Rich purple, pink flowers.

Escallonia Compacta- A small shrub with tiny pink flowers. We already have two of these, and we plan to plant a couple more to even out the landscape.

Viburnum Spring Bouquet- showy, clusters of pink and white flowers.

Lamium & Lithodora Ground Cover- Lamium is a low growing, trailing perennial. silvery white leaves, with pink flowers. Lithodora is low growing, with a beautiful contrast of bright blue flowers, and dark green foliage.

Gestrum Nocturnum- Night blooming jasmine. Need I say more? Perfect for under our bedroom window.

Gestrum Elegans- Same thing, but with stunning red flowers.

Sarcoccoca- low growing, with flowers, and stays green all year. This plant will brighten up our garden bed that is the veiw from our kitchen window.

P.S. Another great source and handbook is the trusty Sunset Western Garden Book. Ours is mostly circled and marked with the plants that did not make it through a growing season. Hopefully, we can can turn this book into a celebration of the "living", instead of an homage to all the plants that have been sacrificed in our yard.

Spring into Loose Leaf Green Tea Today!

2009-03-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

I am exposed to a lot of teas on a weekly basis. I always seem to dodge green tea. Why is that? Is it because it’s good for me and a healthy substitute to for wine? No, I am assuming it’s because I prefer teas that fall under the following categories: black, brown, golden, earthy, nutty, complex, toasty, smooth, and packed with caffeine. Green tea on the surface seems to be the complete opposite. First of all, it looks green, and smells of freshly cut grass.

Maybe my wine palate has ruined me from enjoying green tea. I seem to have an aversion to red wines that show any “green” characteristics- read: unripe grapes. Maybe this applies to tea, too. However, I do love a nice glass of herbaceous Sauvingnon Blanc, especially if I am slurping down Hog Island Oysters with it. There is hope for me, yet.

It’s time to dispel this “green theory” and call in an expert, my husband, the Tea Drinker. By the way, he is now infamous in our hometown. Spread the word. I asked Dan to put together a tea tasting of his favorite Drink the Leaf loose leaf green teas. Besides, it’s seems to be a fitting time of the year to drink green tea. Spring is here, and with that comes plenty of fresh asparagus, artichokes, and peas which we look forward to this time of the year, anyways.

My Mission: The following teas were blind tasted, and I rated them in order of preference.

1) Curled Dragon Silver Tip, China -$10.50
I love the color of this tea. It just looks fresh, and inviting. The color reminds me of fresh squeezed limes, obviously without the pulp! The infused leaves are gorgeous, and give off a hint of fresh grass. On the palate- honey mingles with bright flavors. This is a lovely tea, and I can't wait to try it again. A fresh start.

2) Organic Lu 'An Melon Seed, China- $7.00

Wow. This tea is almost chartreuse in color! Should make some of my absinthe loving friends happy...Already I am having fun, and I haven't even tried it, yet. The aroma reminds me of cooked green vegetables, such as spinach. The palate is complex, and has weightiness to it. Clean finish, and the green factor on the palate tapers off into a nice buttery finish. Give this one a try.

3) Gyokuro, Japan - $ 10.00
Golden, yellow hue with hint of green. Aromas of fresh plucked spring pea tendrils. Rich flavors on the palate, but not too heavy. More clean and bright. Reminds me of a spring morning after it rains…smooth finish.

4) Kawane Sencha, Japan- $16.00

Lemon/Lime color. Fresh cut grass aromas. Light bodied & delicate. Your mom always told you to eat your vegetables. Have this tea, and you will make your mom proud.

5) Organic Kukicha, Japan- $14.00

Right off the bat, I knew this tea was different, and not like the others. Green/forestry color. The aroma was nutty. The palate was loaded with heavier green flavors, such as broccoli, asparagus, and even root vegetables- turnips. And most surprisingly, its had tannins. A grippy tea! Med- full bodied. Long finish- grassy… acquired taste. I discovered afterwards, that this tea is quite popular. It consists of broken leaves,stems, stalks and twigs- all giving the tea structure and depth of flavor. Venture out and try this.

Disclaimer: The key to enjoying perfectly brewed green tea is water temperature. Do not scald those poor little leaves. Yes, you can burn your tea. Follow the recommend temperatures, and steeping timing is equally important.

Verdict: I stand corrected. Green tea has a lot nuances, and its fun to try something new, and break out of my black tea rut. I learned that the primary difference between green tea and green wine, is that green tea is supposed to be green, through and through! What a relief. I think I can now safely put this hurdle behind me. I can sit back and enjoy a bright green tea packed with flavors of grass, peas, and asparagus, and enjoy it. Except now, I am craving grilled artichokes rubbed with garlic, lemon, olive oil and butter. Best served family style with a whole grain mustard aioli mixed with chopped parsley. Shoot, now I am craving wine again. This mission is turning around...

Find the above teas on-line.

A Tasty Brunch at Brenda's French Soul Food

2009-03-15T09:48:00.000-07:00

What an enjoyable weekend, and it’s not over, yet. I am sitting here enjoying a cup of Drink the Leaf Keemun, a tasty, mild, but flavorful rich black tea. Willing myself to get up and go to the grocery store to complete the last item on the list for the “ Surprise Birthday Weekend”: Savory Bread Pudding (see previous post). However, my mind keeps traveling back to the amazing brunch that we had yesterday in the city. We love discovering new restaurants, especially when it’s at the last minute, and recommended by my new nifty device: the I-Phone.

To digress, this I-phone has become my latest obsession. I can talk, type, listen, view, and ignore all at the same time! The free applications are the best, and my favorite is Urbanspoon. Thank you to my dear friend, Pam, for introducing me to this informative tool. The Urbanspoon is an ideal application for any of the following reasons:

1)You are in food freak, and need to find a restaurant ASAP
2)You are lost, and you remember that there was this cool restaurant nearby
3)You are craving Italian, Indian, or whatever you fancy-
4)You want to find out how to get there
5)You are obsessed with researching restaurants
6)You travel frequently, and need to be in the know! The list goes on and on

Back to the brunch. We were in search of finding a restaurant near our hotel, and narrowed our quest by selecting Breakfast/Brunch. Viola! Brenda’s French Soul Food popped up. Three miles from our hotel on Polk St & Eddy- perfect. Urbanspoon also gives the user the ability to rate the restaurant with a simple: Like Or Don’t Like. (91% was the favorable score). Reviews, articles, and menus are also available. We headed out.

Brenda’s is owned by Chef Brenda Buenviaje, a native of New Orleans. This diner totes Creole food “with a French style and New Orleans Soul”. Only open for breakfast and lunch, and with a line out the door. It’s a postage size stamp of place, where we counted about 30 seats total. We put our name on the list – tacked to the outside of the building, and waited. About 30 minutes total. Not bad, because we were rewarded with a very flavorful meal. The menu ranges from Beignets to Fried Oyster Po’Boys. Sitting in this restaurant makes you feel like you stumbled upon something really special, and you can't wait for the chance to tell your friends about it.

We settled on the following:

2 cups of Café au Lait
One Order of Beignets- Traditional- the dough, deep-fried, was hot and moist, with confectioner sugar sprinkled on top.
Tea Drinker: Croque Monsieur with a side of French Fries: Baked ham, topped with Gruyere, and béchamel sauce on sliced sourdough. A great base for the rest of the day.
Wife of Tea Drinker: Florentine Eggs Benedict- Today's Special- Oh my. Two perfectly cooked poached eggs with sauteed spinach sitting on homemade “cream” biscuits, all smothered with a delicious Cajun hollandaise sauce. Side of potato hash. Need I say more…Okay, I will. I will be thinking about this hollandaise until I can get back there for more.

Go to this place-you will not be disappointed. Other items that caught our attention were: Crayfish Beignets, Chicken, Sausage, & Okra Gumbo, Bacon & Egg Tartine, and Fried Catfish.

Well, my last sip of Keemun is getting cold. Time to go to the store, or maybe I can convince the Tea Drinker to settle on leftovers- Potato Hash from Brenda’s…..

Surprise! It’s the Tea Drinker’s Birthday Week!

2009-03-07T16:22:00.000-08:00

What does this entail? Mostly that I will need to cater to my husband’s every whim. Give him anything he wants; when he wants it. Now, before, you email me comments about “waiting on men, and women’s rights” ….I need to confess- I created the “birthday week" tradition in our home. It was my idea, and I truly love it when it’s my week (May 13). However, you know what they say about pay backs?!

This year, I have run into a problem. Today, I left for NYC , and will not be back in time for the Tea Drinker's birthday, Thurs 3/12th. Actually, I will most likely pull up to our house just about 1am- right after his birthday evening ends. I know! I know! It’s a tragedy. What’s a Wife of a Tea Drinker to do? Maybe I could arrive armed with balloons, flowers, and silly stuffed animals from the airport… but that might be too intimidating or slightly crazy for the wee hours of the morning…OR…I could -plan a surprise!

Plan of Action:

Request a vacation day : Friday, March 13th -DONE

Head to San Francisco….Visit http://www.calacademy.org/- This science museum has re-opened after ten years of renovation. Dan's been itching to go here, and of course, I want to check out their much talked about restaurant: http://www.themossroom.com/- DONE

Plan a “tap along” visiting San Francisco's premium beer jaunts. http://www.alembicbar.com/ , http://latrappecafe.com/, and http://www.toronado.com/ Hey, wine and tea all day long, makes for a boring life.- DONE

Check out North Beach & find a perfect little Italian joint to have dinner. Dan has been craving Pizza. The real kind. – Suggestions welcome.

Invite our 2 buddies who live in the city to join us- one always needs a partner in crime, plus, they really know their way around! DONE

Stay at The Westin - great deal, great location, and the best thing- no driving, and we get to sleep in - DONE

Saturday- spend the day researching tea in Chinatown-Tea Drinker’s choice

Saturday Night: Head back to Napa, either watch the next movie in queue from Netflix or go to the movies: http://www.slumdogmillionairemovie.co.uk/ A perfect, academy award winning movie with stunning cinematography, and some chai tea drinking going on.

Sunday Morning: Make Savory Breakfast Pudding - Dan's favorite. Serve with specialty teas from http://www.drinktheleaf.com/

And, most importantly, remember to cater to his every whim! Gladly..

Surprise, Honey! Enjoy your birthday week, and I will see you at 1am on Friday morning. The clock starts ticking then. Love, your wife, Tree

P.S. Go ahead, and plan a “birthday week" surprise for someone you love today. Have fun. Need ideas? Comment here. I am happy to help.

Meyer Lemon Tart & Your Favorite Drink the Leaf Loose teas

2009-03-02T21:02:00.000-08:00

We have lemons coming out of our ears. A few years back my husband planted a Meyer lemon tree- we patiently waited for the bounty. Well, it has arrived- loads and loads of lemons; bright and beautiful. Now what the heck should we do with all of these lemons? I thought I had the perfect answer- display them in a big red bowl and set them on my dining room table. I pranced by admiring my brilliant creativity & domesticity. I was feeling pretty good-even a friend commented on how nice our table looked. But, there it was, the guilt. It was creeping in….Good people across the world nurture and care for their gardens, and not to just display their good fortune in a bowl! Okay, I give in. I would create something with this gift and share my bounty.

I recalled that my Mom had given me a cookbook back in 2005 for Christmas- Luscious Lemon Desserts,by Lori Longbotham. The inscription said- “looked so good, I bought one, too. Love, Mom.” Well, my copy has been sitting in the cupboard stuffed behind Bobby Flay and the like. I dug it out, and flipped through the pages. I conferred with the tea drinker- “This could be fun. We can bake all day, drink fabulous Drink the Leaf loose leaf teas, and eat dessert in the middle of the afternoon!” He was not convinced. (read: Dan thinking- not a healthy way to spend the day). So I forged on without him. Lemon bars, lemon meringue pie, lemon tart, and shortbread. The choices were limitless. I chose “The Perfect Lemon Tart”. And, you know what, it was pretty darn close.

I presented the Tea Drinker with the masterpiece. He even raised an eyebrow while eating, and asked me to cut two slices for our neighbors. The next day, the phone rang. The Perfect Lemon Tart had made an impression on the neighbors. Were the lemons actually from your tree??? Yep, I was proud. So much in fact, the following weekend I hopped to it again, and made a lemon tart and lemon bars, to boot. The Lemon tart was shared with my co-workers- to express my gratitude for all their help with recent festivities.

Give it a go, and let me know what you think. The whole process took me less than an hour.

Recipe:
Adapted from: Luscious Lemon Desserts

Shopping List:
10-11” tart pan with removable bottom
1 stick unsalted butter
2 TBSP. Lemon Zest
1 ¾ cups Flour
1 ¼ cups sugar
2 pinches of salt
6 eggs
1 cup of fresh lemon juice( about 7 lemons)
½ cup heavy whipping cream
Confectioner’s sugar( optional) for dusting

Action:
Pre-heat oven to 350
Melt butter in saucepan over med heat, add 1 TBSP of zest. Stand for 5 minutes
Whisk flour, ½ cup of sugar, pinch of salt in small bowl.
Pour butter mixture slowly into flour-mix with fork until dough sticks together between two fingers
Transfer mixture to pan and press to bottom and up sides of pan. Bake for 25 minutes or light golden brown. Remove and rest on wire rack.
Process remaining 1 cup of sugar with 1 TBSP of zest. If you do not have a process just mix well, and chop zest finer.
Whisk together eggs, sugar with zest, lemon juice, and pinch of salt in mixing bowl.
Beat cream with mixer until small peaks form. Fold into egg mixture until just blended.
Place pie crust in pan on baking sheet, and pour filling into the warm crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes until just set. Let tar cool.
Sift confectioner’s sugar, cut, and enjoy!

Oh, and Mom- if you are out there reading this- Dust off that cookbook, and give me a call. I would be happy to send you some lemons.

Guest Blogger: Dan, husband of Wife of a Tea Drinker

2009-02-22T16:08:00.000-08:00

It’s been one long steep- as we approach Drink the Leaf’s 2nd Anniversary tomorrow, Monday, Feb 23rd. It’s hard to believe that another year has gone by... As I think back on the year, I have really enjoyed listening to feedback from my customers. There is a definitely a buzz about tea, loose leaf in particular.

A question that I am frequently asked by tea enthusiasts, friends, and family is “What is your favorite tea?” There is no definitive answer. As a tea drinker, I have a progression that I look forward to throughout the day. I usually begin each morning with black tea, such as a Keemun or House Ceylon, mostly because my wife bellows, “TEA”, as soon as her eyes pop open! However, by mid afternoon, I am craving an Oolong or Green tea. And, if I need a little pick me up, Peppermint seems to do the job. I am fortunate that caffeinated tea has never interrupted my sleeping habits, so a nice Pu-erh is a great way to cap off the evening, especially after a satisfying meal. For me, there are no set rules when enjoying a cup of tea, except for requiring that it’s loose leaf and fresh.

There is certainly nothing wrong with drinking one variety of tea, but for me, I enjoy the adventure. Same true with wine. I like a variety. But, that’s another post. I look forward to continuing to bring you high quality, loose leaf teas, and if you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out for me at danritz@drinktheleaf.com.

- Dan, Tea Drinker, Founder of Drink the Leaf teas

Parents Of A Tea Drinker

2009-02-15T11:34:00.000-08:00

Mops & Pops, that’s Sandy & Jim, to the rest of the world. My in-laws are visiting for the holiday weekend. After flying across the country and finally making it to our home in Napa Valley, they graciously turned around and headed back out with the Tea Drinker to rescue me at SFO airport. I had been on the road for the last nine days, with endless delays. I was eager to get home. My husband and his parents welcomed me with a nice hot, fully loaded latte. Yes, my husband broke down and brought me a coffee. I have a photo to prove it.

Mops & Pops love projects, and start each day inquiring about what needs to be done. Dan & I made a list of things for them to tackle. Heck, if something breaks in the house or a light bulb goes out, we actually wait until their next visit to fix it. No kidding.

We accomplished the following this weekend:

Tackled a deep cleaning of the stove. Remember the Chinese New Year party?!
Yard work
Grocery shopping, laundry, and house cleaning
More yard work
Harvesting our Meyer lemon tree
And even more yard work
Preparing a tasty Valentine’s Day meal together- one of my favorites :Lemony Moroccan Chicken . Inspired by our bounty from the lemon tree. Note: I used store bought Far East couscous, and added tangy feta cheese.
Sitting through endless tastings of drinking loose leaf teas and wine
And a visit would not be complete without the customary trip to Home Depot

Of course, I supervised all of these projects, and was impressed with their stamina. Little do they know, I am pondering about adding cleaning the litter box to the list? Yes, I know, this maybe pushing it. In all sincerity, my in-laws are wonderful, very supportive, and raised an amazing person, my husband, Dan.

And before you inquire...yes, we would consider renting out Mops & Pops. They are that good! Check out http://www.drinkthleaf.com/ for more details.

How to Promote Your Business On a Daily Basis

2009-02-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

Well, it’s official. The “car slick” will be installed this week. What’s that prey tell? (See photo) They are located on the back of car windows and side doors. You stare at them on the road everyday, and they are silently urging you to learn more about its owner's business. They run the gamut from promoting plumbing services to dog walking. I'm sure there is a connection there somewhere… In any case, have you ever seen a loose leaf tea company logo? I haven’t. Not a single one, and I have had my eyes peeled for over a year now.

From now on, every time the Tea Drinker heads out in his trusty Nissan Pathfinder, he is a moving advertisement. All in a nice subtle way, urging and luring our community to buy Drink the Leaf loose leaf teas.

If you own a business, and are not advertising on your vehicle, do so. All you need is a logo, the cost is minimal, and the payoff is year-round advertising. Oh, and owning a vehicle is essential.

I read somewhere that in order to commit a company's name to memory, one needs to see it, at least eight times.

Drink the Leaf
Drink the Leaf
Drink the Leaf
Drink the Leaf
Drink the Leaf
Drink the Leaf
Drink the Leaf
Drink the Leaf
AND, one for extra measure: Drink the Leaf.

Cruising your neighborhood soon…..

Drink the Leaf Loose Leaf Tea in Your Favorite Restaurant

2009-02-01T14:39:00.000-08:00

Let’s take DrinktheLeaf.com to the wholesale level, and sell to restaurants and retailers. This has been my latest big push with the Tea Drinker. He agrees, but has a plan. If I wasn't already busy with a full time job & a half, that I love, I would help the Tea Drinker bang on more doors, and get the word out. DrinktheLeaf.com is approaching its 2nd year anniversary this month, and phase 1 of the business was to sell on-line, phase 2 is to take DTL teas to restaurants/speciality stores, and phase 3- maybe a spa line! We are on target. Goals are important. But sometimes, events happen organically. Its always been my nature to talk to people about the things that I am passionate about, whether its food, wine, or tea. I once read that “people buy from their friends”. That works for me!

Our goal is to sell Drink the Leaf loose leaf teas to wholesale customers by March 12th, my husband’s birthday. Ambitious? Not really. I jumped the gun while we are out to dinner on Friday. We finished enjoying a nice meal at one of our favorite restaurants in Napa, and were handed the dessert menu. At the bottom of the menu was the list of teas. I wondered out loud, who the producer was, since it was not listed. Our bartender filled us in on the name of the tea producer, and a conversation ensued about loose leaf tea. Loose leaf is our niche, and our goal is to break down myths swirling around loose leaf tea, and it being time consuming. Its not. Our conversation led to inquiring about who made the tea buying decisions at the restaurant, and ended with the Tea Drinker meeting the buyer, exchanging cards, and committing to dropping of samples and a price list next week.

Oops! Like, I said, when I am passionate about things, I start conversations. Sometimes its best not to wait until all your ducks are in a row. Start a conversation, make a connection, follow up, and Viola! you could be in the wholesale business way before your goal date. Now the Tea Drinker has to spend Super Bowl Sunday preparing for a wholesale presentation. Oops, again.

Email where you would like to see Drinktheleaf.com offered. Ask your favorite restaurant to carry Drink the Leaf . We will try to make it happen, and if we do.. you will be the first to know!

Buffalo, NY- Cold & Comforting

2009-01-25T16:56:00.000-08:00

This picture says it all. I am in Buffalo, NY- my hometown. As soon as I stepped off the warm plane onto the jetway, a bone chilling draft ran down my spine reinforcing the obvious heard later on the car radio: “today’s high will be 12 degrees!” I dug for my scarf at the bottom of my travel bag, and started to curse the weather. Then, a wonderful aroma washed over me; it made my mouth water. Buffalo Hot Wings! I started to relax as I trudged past the new Anchor Bar location in the airport. Ah, I was home. I looked forward to a weekend filled with all of my Buffalo favorites: Pizza, Wings, Subs, Lay's Potato Chips & Bison French Onion Dip, to name a few.

It’s always comforting to visit my childhood home, even in the dead of winter. First, I am received by the “welcoming party"--my parents. From the moment I announce I am coming home, they mark their calendars, and start stocking their cupboards. I am not proud that all my favorites happen to fall into the junk food category, but I would not have it any other way. Last night, my Mom welcomed me with a turkey melt. She set the tone, and sent me on my way to my Dad’s house, where pizza awaited me. We doctored it up with mushrooms and anchovies (see photo). I can feel my husband cringing now.

Cherished memories in my life always include family, friends, conversation and a tasty meal. Wine & loose leaf tea are now incorporated into the mix, too. It’s comforting to know that I can treat myself with a memory, just by sitting down and having a slice of pizza. Well, I have to go now; Mom’s arrived with a plate of plate of olives, cheese spreads, and flatbread, all accompanied by a nice glass of Carneros Pinot Noir. Next up, how to incorporate Hot Wings into the equation. There's always the airport. Treat yourself to a memory today.

Blend Your Own Masala Chai Loose Leaf Tea

2009-01-18T10:41:00.001-08:00

Masala Chai (“spiced tea”) is a popular beverage that hails from India, and has been on the rise steadily here in the United States. This tasty beverage is made by brewing black tea with a medley of Indian spices and herbs. In parts of India and South Asia, “chai wallahs” are everywhere, much like America’s favorite addiction- Starbucks, which adorns every street corner.

How do you enjoy your Masala Chai? Do you just add water and drink it straight, or do prefer steamed milk, and a bit of sugar? Truly, it’s a personal matter. There are many variations of masala chai, and in India, most are based on a family recipe passed down through generations. Traditionally, the preparation is to simmer together water, milk and black loose leaf tea mixed with a sweetener, and whole spices. You could easily make this preparation in the comfort of your own home; thankfully, I am all set, as I enjoy the Tea Drinker’s blend, Organic Chic Chai! Incidentally, we tried many blends before finding right fit for Drink the Leaf.

To make masala chai at home, you will basically need four ingredients: tea, sweetener, milk, and spices.

Tea: Use a strong black loose leaf tea of high quality. You know where to shop: http://www.drinktheleaf.com.

Sweetener: White or brown sugar, and, honey will work, too.

Milk: Use whole milk if you are in the mood to party, but 1-2% is fine. The fat content will give your tea a wonderful texture, and silky mouth feel.

Spices: This is where the creativity comes into play. Its your call based on the spices that you prefer. The popular ones are: cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, star anise, peppercorn, and cloves. I like a hint of vanilla bean added to the blend. Not a traditional spice for this beverage, but one that you see creeping into this beverage more, and more.

Preparation: Heat a blend of milk and water( ¼ to ½ parts) with tea, spices, and sweetener. Bring to just near boiling. Strain. Inhale the enticing aromatics, take a sip and sit back and dream.

Masala Chai is a great beverage to enjoy right now, especially if you live on the East Coast where the average winter temperature seems to hover around 35 degrees or below! This tea is comforting, rich and soothing. Since the Tea Drinker and I live on the West coast, we drink ours naked- no milk, no sugar. Like I said, it’s personal.

Chinese New Year-Loose Leaf Tea, Wine, Food, and Friends

2009-01-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

Kung Hei Fat Choy!

You guessed it, that’s Happy New Year in Cantonese. The Tea Drinker and I plan to celebrate this Chinese New Year with inviting our friends over for a dinner party. We will drink quality loose leaf teas, sip interesting wines, and nosh on tasty Chinese food; all in the spirit of this cherished Chinese holiday. Instead of a Festival Parade, we plan to share photos from our trip to China this past summer. Besides, if we paraded around the neighborhood at night carrying lanterns, this might confirm suspicions that the Tea Drinker and his wife are truly bonkers…

Chinese New Year starts with the New Moon on the first day of the New Year, and ends on the full moon, 15 days later. The 15th day is the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated at night with a parade. The Chinese year 4707 begins on January 26, 2009. This is the year of the Ox. People born in the Year of the Ox are said to be obstinate, eccentric, and inspire confidence in others. Check out what year you were born in: http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0002076.html.

Want to have a Chinese New Year Dinner Party, too? Here’s how:

How To:
Invite 12 people- to celebrate each month of the upcoming year
Decorate in red & gold, symbolizing a bright future that is prosperous
Plan your menu, select loose leaf teas, Chinese beer, and white wine with a lot of acidity
Use chopsticks, hang lanterns, and light candles
Order recommended teas from http://www.drinktheleaf.com/
Enjoy, celebrate, and laugh, a lot!

Chinese New Year 4707 Menu:

Starters:
Spicy Chicken Wings
Shrimp Dumplings
Monkey Picked Oolong- * A wonderful Chinese tea whose name always provokes conversation.

Chinese Family Style:
Drunken Crab with Ginger Sauce
General Tso’s Chicken
Barbequed Mongolian Lamb Skewers
Dan Dan Noodles
Jasmine Rice
Organic Jasmine Pearl, Chinese Green * A popular tea served in Chinese restaurants. Want to serve wine? Chill down a nice Riesling, or Gewürztraminer.

Dessert:
Green Tea Ice Cream
Fortune Cookies
Golden Pu-erh*A great digestive tea and it will not keep you up all night.

I adapted most of the recipes from FEAST, The best of Yan Can Cook, by Martin Yan. If you are interested in them, please post your request here on my blog, and I will be happy to share them with you.

Happy New Year Tea Drinkers!

2009-01-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

It’s a New Year. Most have plans for changing or improving their lives. I am no different. Quite a few things are on the "To Do” list for 2009. First up, start each day with a “Stop Doing This” list. I read somewhere that this notion was the secret to success. Join me in this endeavor. Go ahead, and continue with your plans to exercise more, relax more, eat healthier, and etc. But, think about what stops you from obtaining your goals. And, ah, stop doing it.

Here are a few ideas:

Mix it up! Start your day with tea, instead of coffee. If you are already doing this, continue to do so, please.
Stop worrying if you miss a day at the gym. It will be there tomorrow. Don’t fall off the wagon because of one day.
Stop eating the same old meals for dinner. Try a new recipe at least once a week.
Don’t count how many glasses of water you are required to have each day. The more you drink, the thirstier you will become. This rule applies to wine, too. So, be careful.
Don’t start each morning by reading your email. Okay, a shock just travelled through your body. Don't panic, just move this item to the bottom of the list.
Don’t put your travel plans on hold. Book your getaway today.
Don’t worry about multi-tasking. Doing laundry while reading a great book is a not a bad idea.
Stop racing through the day. Take the time to stop and chat with people. Put this on your list, only if you have accomplished everything on it.
Don’t put off learning something new each day. If you are nuts about tea, food, and wine- there is still something to learn. Start with exploring pu-erhs, baking bread, and drinking more Italian wines. This is ambitious, I know.
The Tea Drinker plans to stop worrying about what nonsense his wife may post on her blog. Instead, he will tell her that she is unbelievably witty.

I think you get the idea. Post your “Stop Doing This” list on my blog. If your New Year's resolution is to give up making lists, then please stop...

How to steep the perfect cup of loose leaf tea

2008-12-28T09:07:00.000-08:00

Have you been drinking tea that is bland or bitter? Or do you feel that the process of making loose leaf tea is time consuming? Don’t give up. The perfect cup of tea is just around the corner. Preparing loose leaf tea can take the same amount of time as preparing any of your favorite beverages. Yes, this includes opening a bottle of wine.

Living with the Tea Drinker, I begin most mornings sipping the perfect cup of tea. But, how do you achieve this on your own, with out the Tea Drinker by your side? Focus on The “Three Ts” : Tea, Temperature, and Time. Properly brewing loose leaf tea will change your tea drinking habits. You will not go back to commercially bagged tea. Nor will you want to bypass any of the steps below.

Of course, water is vital. "Just add water" is the Tea Drinker's motto. And, filtered is preferred. But, to elaborate on The “Three Ts” :

1)Tea- Fresh loose leaf tea is the key. Does it smell good? If there is little or no aroma , you may have stale tea. Remember to buy from a reputable purveyor. Also, the amount of tea you use is very important. Approximately 1 teaspoon for 6-8 oz of water. Too much tea will make your cup astringent and bitter. Also, it’s a waste of tea. And not enough tea, will make for a weak cup. No Wimpy Teas. If you are a wine drinker, you will know that I borrowed that line…

2) Temperature- Any tea nut will tell you that the temperature of the water is essential. To boil it down for you: Black/Oolong/Pu-erh tea –just about boiling- 205 F. Green & white–just before boiling- 175-185 F. It all depends on the tea. Easy. If you want to use recommended temperature times, and a thermometer gadget- check out the Tea Drinker’s guidelines.

3)Time- Once again, we are not talking about consuming your time, just the correct steeping time. Always start by following the recommended steeping time on the package of tea. Use a kitchen timer, stove timer, stop watch, count jumping jacks, whatever it takes, but make sure you time the steeping.

It's not a "T", but another essential item is your infuser. I love this one.

So, what are you waiting for? Go make the perfect cup of tea. I started today with a wonderful single estate Ceylon. Okay, the Tea Drinker made it for me. So, maybe in my house it takes “The Four Ts" to make the perfect cup of tea.

Blood Orange Black is Back!

2008-12-21T09:49:00.000-08:00

Alert the masses, stop the presses, Drink the Leaf’s most popular flavored tea is back in stock. The Tea Drinker was in an extremely good mood this past week. Blood Orange Black has been missing in action for the past 5 months. This popular tea hails from Sri Lanka, and our supplier resides in Germany. Try to figure that one out.

It’s been like a covert operation around here for the last month-Tea Drinker on the phone, “Okay, did you get my order? I will take as much as I can get.” Mumbling to himself, “Alright, I am tracking it, and it should be here any day now." To me, "No, I can’t leave the premises until BOB arrives- it should be here any minute now.” The phone has been ringing, and the website buzzing with requests to fill orders. Tea Drinker has been arranging “drops” all over town.

What’s so special about this tea? It is because it’s refreshing in the summer, and comforting in the winter? I think most like the balance of this bold black tea mixed with the bright flavors of an orange essence. It’s an attractive tea, too. And affordable. This tea seems to have it all. It is addicting, and the orange flavors are not sickly sweet. In the New Year, Drink the Leaf has plans to dive more into blending tea. An interesting process where you select a high quality black tea, and mix it with natural ingredients. Such as, vanilla bean, cardamom, and other spices, and essences. I am excited. My vote is for a pomegranate tea. For now, I will settle for Blood Orange Black for the season. Let's hope that it doesn't sell out before the end of the week! Give it a try…

Holiday Winter Salad

2008-12-14T16:10:00.000-08:00

This past week I had the pleasure of dining at the Martini House in St. Helena, CA. I had a bowl of cream of mushroom soup, and a nice glass of Soave to chase it down. My dining partner ordered the Winter Salad(Mixed Chicories, Fuyu Persimmons, Point Reyes Blue and Candied Pecans, Creamy White Balsamic Vinaigrette). The presentation was inviting, so,I boldly pushed my bread plate towards her salad, and Viola! I was a lucky recipient! The next day, I re-created this salad for a holiday pot luck party. And today, I decided to surprise the Tea Drinker with chestnut dumpling soup, and, you guessed it, the Winter Salad again. Well, I already mentioned that I really liked it…

Here's my version of the Martini House salad. It’s very easy to make, and the reward is in the flavors and appearance.

1.Mixed Greens (include radicchio). I bought pre-packaged greens at the grocery store.

2.Persimmons- peel and cut into slices- the first persimmon I ever had was at a friend’s dinner party. Its a must every winter.

3. Pomegranate seeds- Do not be intimidated! Cut the pomegranate in half and pluck out the seeds. The seeds give amazing texture to the salad, and a burst of flavor with each bite.

4.Crumbled Gorgonzola- my favorite

5. Candied Pecans- I mixed pecan halves with orange juice, and brown sugar, and baked at 350 for 15 minutes.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar, a dab of Honey, and mix in Olive Oil. At the restaurant they used White Balsamic Vinegar, which I did not have in my pantry! My version was delicious.

7.Toss together, and put on a white platter. The colors really pop, and now you've just created a very festive winter salad.

The verdict is still out on the Chestnut Soup. We are about to have dinner. Stay tuned...

My Top Favorite Drinktheleaf.com Gift Ideas

2008-12-07T14:20:00.000-08:00

Brace yourself- the holidays are upon us. Last night, we decorated our Christmas tree which easily resembles Santa Claus' bulging belly, only more lop-sided. My husband felt I was getting ahead of myself- way too early in the month for putting up a tree. Let’s see, there are 18 days left to the 25th. I know it’s not the “12 days”, but if you count shopping, wrapping, and holiday parties - you’re basically there!

Speaking of shopping, this is where I will shamelessly plug my favorite Drinktheleaf.com gift ideas for this holiday season. Order for your friends and family, or put these items on your own wish list for Santa. I conveniently tacked my list on the fridge- eye level.

To Give:

“Let it Snow”Gift Pack – Great tasting tea. Why would'nt you want to drink “snow” teas during the holidays? Well, maybe you would pass- if you lived in Buffalo...In any case, you can’t beat the price- $11 for 2-2oz bags.

Serenity Tea Pot- Recently we used this teapot to steep our afternoon cup of tea. I was impressed with how long the tea stayed hot. I kept commenting to my husband- “Wow, this teapot really retains heat.” A few minutes later, “Wow, the tea is still hot.” Even later- “Wow…” I am not sure my husband appreciated the play by play, but you get the picture! Great gift at $28 includes the cups, too.

Jade Oolong- This tea just received a great review from Lainiesips.com. Lainie mentioned that this tea was the best, and etc. I totally agree with her. $15 for 2oz. Which produces about 20 cups of tea, not including multiple infusions.

To Receive:

Organic Peppermint Herbal Tea- I have a thing for peppermint, or anything mint. Yesterday, I bought Organic Peppermint Cookie Crunch ice cream from Three Twins, at the Oxbow Market in Napa. Delicious. Convince someone to buy you this tea- it will last longer than ice cream, and it is probably healthier, too.

Mini Water Kettle- We received this as a Christmas gift a few years back- BT(before tea). Today, it is our prized possession in the house, and is used everyday. Quick and easy. Also, great for heating up water for oatmeal.

Red Peony- This very well might be my current favorite Drink the Leaf tea. First, it just looks cool. I love plopping the rosette right into my tea cup. The aromas are great, and the flavors are intoxicating. Treat yourself. Also, this tea has been highly rated by the reviewers. See previous post- Red Peony- Are you a contender?

Well, its time to get back to counting down the days until Christmas. This year we are stealing away to the coast. I've already started my packing list: tea, wine, books, wine, cheese, tea, and wine. All set.