Sunday, June 29, 2008

it's part art and part science

I have now finally gotten around to using that cute teapot and loose tea I purchased months ago, having decided this morning to brew up a batch of Earl Gray tea. Wanting to go all British, and in proper British vernacular, I "fancied a spot of tea" this AM.

It is with some embarassement that (1) I had to read the side of the box in which the loose tea was packaged to read the instructions on exactly how to brew the tea, how much tea to use, how long to steep it, etc. and (2) I now understand that there must be more to the process than was noted on the side of the box.

I suppose all Brits know how to make a "spot of tea" using something OTHER than teabags hence, the directions on the tea container should be quite brief and more than adequate. After all, how many people (besides foreigners) need help making a pot of tea?

I confess it must be part art and part science because simply following the directions is not enough. Never fear, as I will take a crack at again tomorrow.

And before you Brits laugh at this Texan, do you know how to make Rotel cheese dip? Yea...there are a couple of techniques that are not listed on the side of the Velveeta cheese box and the can of Rotel tomatoes that make the all the difference in the world between marginal versus fabulous cheese dip.

Right...I didn't think you knew those secrets so stifle the giggles on the loose tea fiasco.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

This post made me laugh out loud (literally)!
I can tell you that "my Brit" (Paulster) only uses tea bags. The only time in my 3.5 years I've seen loose tea served was at high tea at Fortnum and Mason. Therefore, I must contend that the loose tea is reserved for the "posh". :) And...I can bring the Rotel and Doritos if you have some Velveeta--I'm going to have to ask my next guests to import Velveeta for me! Good luck on loose tea try #2. Cyn

Hachie Gal said...

Whew! I thouht I was just being dense!