Serendipitea: A Guide To The Varieties, Origins, And Rituals Of Tea

by Tomislav Podreka

The pleasures and benefits of tea have been known and enjoyed for close to five thousand years -- after water, it is the most consumed beverage in the world. Yet only in recent years has tea come into its own in the United States; since 1990, tea consumption has doubled. In Serendipitea, Tomislav Podreka, a tea specialist, explores the history and philosophy of tea and shares little-known anecdotes and myths. He takes us on a fascinating journey through the many tea-producing countries, looking at all the various types of tea, their origins and lore, and the distinctive taste, aroma, and leaf of each region. Serendipitea focuses on tea rituals from around the world, and looks at how the ceremony of taking tea is integral to so many cultures -- from the revered Japanese "Cha-no-yu" to the classic British "cuppa." Also included are a few recipes of chosen food offerings from each of the countries covered. The author discusses the important difference in quality between bagged varieties and premium loose leaf teas, advising on the best steeping techniques. He also includes chapters evaluating the latest health benefits associated with tea, as well as herbal infusions and tisanes.

208 pages, Hardcover

First published October 7, 1998

Reviews

[Stacie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Falling asleep after the first 10 pages I realized the first part of this book reads like an encyclopedia without pictures. It picks up on page 33 'Types of Teas around the World' where appropriate descriptions that can befound in any loose tea shop are listed with liitle more history embelishment. Page 61 'Tea Time' finally begins to offer us something as a reader. Adorable little receipes to couple with your around the world teas. The only charm to this is the title and yummie snacks.

Cucumber & Smokoed Salmon Tea Sandwiches w/Dill Butter
Watercress & Chive Cream Tea Sandwiches
Lemon Curd Tartlets
Chocolate Dipped Choc-Madeleines
Yogurt Pistachio Cake
Coconut Semolina Pudding
(just to name a few)

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, a quick reading on the history and types of tea. Can easily fit this into my busy schedule to read it again.