Steep It Loose

People have been smoking food for as long as anyone can remember, and not just for preservation. The origins of different smoked foods range from deliberate to accidental, but in many cases the added flavor quickly became well liked and sought after. More than just being a delicious flavor that’s popular across the world, smokiness is almost entirely unique and can add a fun twist to just about anything, from marinades to cocktails and desserts. With Summer officially on its way, and Father’s Day around the corner, what better to bring back the smoky flavor of grills and campfires than...

Herbal Teas for Women's Health & Hormone Balance (And They’re Not Only for Women!) Women’s lives go through widely varying hormonal phases: from childhood, through teenage years to adulthood (and perhaps becoming a mother), and eventually, menopause and aging. At each phase the body and mind are developing, changing, continuously discovering the new human we are today. These transitions remind me of the words of Toni Morrison “You are your best thing” (Beloved). As a woman-owned and operated business centered on health and wellness, we’re keen on understanding the benefits of tea and herbals at all these different stages in a...

Grant Harrold had been a butler for Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall and other senior members of the Royal family for seven years. He is now a British etiquette expert, and broadcaster.After having broken rank with the royals, Harrold settled the great British argument about whether the Queen likes her tea made with tea in first (TIF) or milk in first (MIF) to make the perfect cuppa. According to the British tabloid newspaper Express, Grant Harrold revealed that the Queen definitely prefers her tea in first. Good for her. That’s what any expert would advocate,...

“Mother-Daughter Teatime” is a concept that conjures up images of formality and tradition. Our mind immediately jumps to images of fine china and linens, tiny sandwiches, dainty pastries, impeccable manners (elbows off the table) and conversation sprinkled with light gossip and motherly advice. We do have the English to credit with many of these images. Having first established “teatime” as an extended afternoon refreshment in the 1700s, it was the 19th century nobility who elevated this snack into a glorified social event, complete with silver, finger sandwiches (thank you, Earl of Sandwich), tea cakes and scones.  The memory which for...