The Fireside Is…

December 6, 2018Ideen Barimani Tea 5 Comments

FiresideSpiceTea

I’ve been away for a little while. This season has been a little harder to embrace than most. Eventually sadness was going to take over and just manifest itself throughout the holidays. And I love the holidays so much.

I love Thanksgiving. I love Christmas. I love all the celebrations of peace, life, love, family, and of course all the celebrations in general.

Holiday parties make me so happy. But this year I haven’t been feeling it. I’ve chosen to stay away from a few this time, or make other plans. The comforts of sitting at home with my cat, or the various pets I look after are what’s getting me through the holidays thus far.

I never wanted to be someone that just got through the holidays, but this is currently where I stand. And it hurts. It hurts in ways that I can’t even describe.

Plain and simple, this is the first holidays without my dad. And with that brings upon feeling of grief, not just about him, but about so much else going on in my life, or lack thereof. Yet with all the hurt and tragedy, there’s still so much to be grateful for, and there’s those constants that just keep me going and still bring a smile to my face. There’s much to be thankful and grateful for. There always will be… Just like…

The Spice & Tea Exchange has always been there, and I hope it continues to be there (my love for them can be found here) for me, not just to review their limited time teas, but all their magical teas, that are for sure magical, and all those other good things.

For now, I like to go when it’s quiet. This is a far cry from when I would want to be around big groups, busy shoppers, and all the noise and commotion that makes this season so exciting. Maybe later. Right now, that’s not for me.

The Annapolis location (all locations can be found here) was the ideal setting for browsing and purchase.

Spice&TeaHolidayTeas

What is for me is peace, calm, and a lot of solitude. I find comfort in the unknown and in quiet. The unknown is the three latest teas for holidays. I’m so grateful to share with you my thoughts on the Holiday Cheer, the returning Chocolate Candy Cane Tea, and the Fireside Spice.

For more on the returning Chocolate Candy Cane go here.

With help from the trusty Cozy Cup Mitten Infuser (charming I know right), I had a ball preparing these for enjoying and sipping. Yes!

HolidayCheerTeaUpClose

Not going in any particular order we start with the Holiday Cheer.

The trios of cinnamon, hibiscus, and fig is breathtaking. I probably didn’t do the best job of brewing this cup, hence the color that you see. But the flavors still shined through in spectacular fashion. With a name like Holiday Cheer, how can you not be enchanted?

The Chocolate Candy Cane is just as great as I remember it a year ago. Maybe even better. Black tea, chocolate, and peppermint will make anyone happy. This also tells me I must try some of their more traditional teas, such as black and other flavors that I’ve grown up with. Yes, ones I’ve shared with my dad. I felt this one a little more this time.

FiresideSpiceTeaUpClose

If I had to pick a favorite it would be the Fireside Spice, and it might just be the cinnamon and chicory combination that made feel a little more sentimental for the time I’m in, for the the time we’re in, and where time tends to stop, and I felt like a kid for a moment.

FireSideSpiceTea2

But I know I’m not. These teas take on a whole new meaning to me then if this were a year ago, or many years ago. This is life though and we’re all going to experience a lot of things, some that will hurt, but hopefully many that bring us joy and raise our spirits.

Spice&TeaStore

I love these teas and I love The Spice & Tea Exchange. Thank you for making my holiday feel a little more manageable.

Peace Be With You.

Love,

Ideen

And All In Good Time…

September 25, 2018Ideen Barimani Tea 4 Comments

Spice&TeaFallTeaDisplayAll3

I wanted to wait just a little while before getting into my quarterly tradition of raving about the seasonal teas from The Spice & Tea Exchange. We are barely into autumn, and two of the three teas were out of the stock as of this post yesterday. As of today, two of three are now available. This is too funny, but it’s also the times we’re in.

I would say this is a faux pas of mine, and to some extent it is. It also speaks volumes of how good these teas are, how much so many of us embrace the change of the season and the impending well, you know…, and the power of tea (here is their complete list of teas, available at their stores and to purchase online) and how so many of us love it for the art of drinking, as a hobby, a passion, and the way it makes us feel. I think the place and the energy of many of their stores has a lot do with that.

Spice&TeaOldTownAlexandria

This time it brings me to where I was born, Alexandria, VA, and their charming shoppe in the heart of Old Town. That was not meant to be as dramatic it sounded. Ah maybe it was…

A huge thank you to Jessica the manager for being so kind.

As I wrote about several months back, I was in a similar position spiritually, (and in many ways still am, and might be for a while) and a visit to a tea shoppe, especially their’s is always cleaning for the soul and the spirit.

I’ve been writing for long enough that the changing of the seasons is now synonymous with a visit to their stores, and knowing that three amazing teas will be presented to all of us.

And that’s exactly what happened once again. These guys are incredible. My past stories will confirm all of this.

Spice&TeaFallDisplay2

It was still Summer when these teas were intro duced and still Summertime when I bought these. I along with some of my close friends know that we shouldn’t rush these things. I had a sense that these flavors would be out of stock soon if not already. The packs were on the low side, and I didn’t think to ask if more were coming. You just know sometimes.

The three for us this time are the Tipsy Toffee, the Spiced Ruby Cider Herbal Tea (out of stock for now?), and the Pumpkin Chai Latte.

Spice&TeaFallTeaUpClose

The ingredients are all on the back of the packs. I want to review this like I always do, with as light hearted and approachable as it can be. If things overlap then that’ll happen naturally. I have so much to say but sometimes the tea says all that need to be said, and we should embrace.

Here goes…

One thing that always stands out is while the aromas of their teas give the impression that they may be too sweet for many, but it’s so brilliantly deceptive. It almost tastes exactly the opposite of what you would expect. In many cases this is a good thing and I believe this is the intent.

Spice&TeaTipsyToffeeDisplay

The Tipsy Toffee has the strongest scent of all in my opinion. And while I love toffee, I was weary of how it would taste. Nah I’m kidding. It’s not that serious. There’s nothing to be weary of haha.

Spice&TeaTipsyToffeeDisplay2

This is tremendous. While you might think the butterscotch and caramel flavorings may be overpowering, they were anything but. Everything has its place and complemented the other so well. I’ve said this before but so much about tea is what you don’t taste immediately until seconds later, or even longer. Understated yet endearing is what their teas are all about. Beautiful.

Spice&TeaTipsyToffeeInfused

The color on the toffee among with the others was a little more special this time. All credit goes to the dragonfly infuser, which is also available through them. For significant, personal, and sentimental reasons I’m grateful to use this trusty friend for the first time, for this round of teas.

Spice&TeaSpicedRubyCiderDisplay

The Spiced Ruby Cider had this color of red that is perfect for this season and matches the color of things to come. Yes I’m thinking a little bit ahead too. In order to brew this, I had to break the pieces up a little.

Spice&TeaSpicedRubyCiderDisplay2

Again, with cinnamon apple pieces, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, orange peels (I feel like a pendulum), cloves, and more cinnamon stuff, you would think this would be too sweet. Even if was, I think it would be awesome. The smell is great and once again this is a universally wonderful tea that everyone will love. However, that’s for you to judge and judge alone.

Spice&TeaPumpkinChaiDisplay2

You can’t forget the Pumpkin Chai Latte. This is why we celebrate autumn right? We got more pumpkin then we know what to do with. You wouldn’t know it here though. And I’m not a fan of most chai, but once again this is nowhere near as rich and that full feeling chai you might expect.

I never tasted any whipped cream or caramel. But it’s there and so is that pumpkin!

I thought this would be the most potent of the three and I felt it was actually the most tame. This was my least favorite of the trios, and not in a bad way. You can’t go wrong, and you can only go right with all of them.

This sounds like a heavy bias, but with few exceptions The Spice & Tea Exchange clearly knows how to make superb tea with a lot of soul and a lot of feeling behind it.

Yes you see sweet treats with each cup, and while they were merely for display, it’s to prepare us for indulgence, because indulgence is coming. I’m so happy to begin the fall season with their teas and I’m so grateful for the opportunity once again.

Spice&TeaAppleCinnamonSugar

One last thing, when you buy 3 packs, you get a free packet of sugar. What do with this Apple Cinnamon Crisp Sugar? I answered my own question by maybe wanting to add to these teas, but maybe it’s meant for something else.

Peace Be With You, and there will be another story much sooner than later. I’m purposely being vague because I honestly don’t know what’s next.

Spice&TeaFallTeaDisplayThreeTeas

All in good time…

Love,

Ideen

Feeling Grateful – Part II

April 19, 2018Ideen Barimani Tea 2 Comments

MasalaChai&ChocolateCake2

This life is fun and funny at times. What started out as any other day (and I don’t like days just being ordinary or like ‘any other day’), turned into one that was full of happiness, joy, hope, and many things to look forward to in the present, as well as the future.

But it’s always important to live in the present tense.

As one door opens, so does another, and a return to one of my favorite places in Historic Old Ellicott City, the wonderful Matcha Time Cafe. I absolutely adore this place.

MatchaTimeCafe

I find it so wonderful, that a bonus post, outside of my usual Tuesday style, was absolutely necessary. Actually none of this is necessary, but to me, it’s important enough to expound upon, especially as the Ellicott City Spring Festival takes place this coming Saturday.

It’s not like business will be slow, or this or any other business needs any more publicity or promotion leading into this weekend. But that’s not the point. The point is to promote positivity, support a local business, and support someone who I now consider a friend.

When I made the most incredible and memorable of discoveries back in November of 2016 (story can be found here), of this gift from the universe, I thought that if there is something bigger than us and bigger than this life, this is one way the other side would look like.

I hadn’t introduced myself to the manager, Hatsumi, at the time. Actually maybe I did after I sat outside in the what was an unseasonably warm yet picturesque day, that gave me one of the best stories, on not just about tea, but about anything. I got some awesome pictures too. And I say that with confidence, because I haven’t read it since. I rarely read what I write. Maybe I’ll go back and see how well that story, among others, has aged. I bet it’s timeless. I know it is.

So nearly a year-and-a-half later, my return visit tells a different story, yet it’s all relative, and all means so much.

MatchaTimeFront

I had given a heads up that I was on my way and was greeted with open arms. That made me feel so good. On a day where everything felt unique and uncomfortably fantastic at times, it was good to see a familiar face.

After a several minute chat, that became much longer, I got to sample some of the new teas for the season. I also see that they make dumplings in house, along with so many other amazing foods. I forgot it’s more than just a cafe. There’s a delicious and nutritious element to their menu, that must be revisited again. And no it won’t be another 18 months till the next time. That’s a guarantee.

MatchaTimeBoard

After a few moments of deliberation, I was presented the Masala Chai Latte, and as an added bonus, a gluten free chocolate cake. Yes it’s as rich as it gets ladies and gentlemen. And I wouldn’t want it any other way.

MasalaChai

The latte is as gorgeous and splendid as it looks. It’s a bit heavy and rich, like I said, so sip carefully, slowly, and in peace. It’s going to wake you up. And on a day or string of days where I’ve been perpetually exhausted, this was as welcome a beverage as any.

ChocolateCake And that cake. I didn’t know it was gluten free until I was basically full from my tea. I first thought there’s no way I can have all this. When I found out it was GF, there was this open sigh of relief. It was like a weight lifted off my shoulders.

MasalaChai2

I enjoyed my cake later, and once again, as beautiful as it looks, it would be a shame not to eat. It was beautiful.

Everything about this visit was beautiful.

MasalaChai3

I’m glad I arrived when I did, right before lunch, as business started to pick up, and the time for conversation was beginning to wane. But a good hour or so was just enough. And like I said, I’ll be back much sooner than later.

I see this being more than a trilogy. I see this being a recurring story, with no timetable, no expectations, just a good time with good people, and some more amazing teas and tasteful bites.

MasalaChai&ChocolateCake

The way I write this might feel like a transition. And maybe it is. Maybe I’m projecting, but my intent is to project the good I’m feeling based on not just this visit, but the first one, and so many other invaluable experiences, all for the love of tea.

For more on Matcha Time Cafe click here.

I can’t wait to see where this goes next.

Have a good one, and peace be with you…

Ideen

Your “I Love You”

February 6, 2018Ideen Barimani Tea 3 Comments

PukkaTeaCupCat2

So we got to February rather quickly. Actually in a way it feels like time has always been moving at the rate, or at a faster or slower place, depending on your situation or how you’re feeling. All I know is this month means a lot of things to a lot of people. I know there’s some holidays that depending on your beliefs and situation’ you either embrace, don’t care about, or don’t even think about. Maybe it’s a combination of all of the above, or none of this at all.

This past Sunday I was at one of my local grocery stores’, without realizing that it’s one of the busier, and more hectic days to be at such a place. I was oblivious to that fact until I walked in. Instead of feeling despondent and disheartened (which I initially felt at first), I embraced it. Everyone is there for the same and different reasons. People want to get there stuff and get the heck out of there. For others it’s a highlight to their weekend. So who am I to question that?

Little did I know that I would make a wonderful discovery. This is one of those weeks where I didn’t actually know what tea or what tea related story I would write about. I didn’t sweat it, I didn’t force the issue, and I just let it come to me. In this case, it found me. And I’m so grateful it did.

We’re only about a week away from Valentine’s Day. For some it’s a something to celebrate and embrace. For others it’s not to take seriously. It’s just another day. And to another segment it may breed contempt and dissatisfaction. I tend to fall into all of those categories, or have been over the years.

But love comes in many forms. It’s not just a love for a person, romantically. It’s a love for your friends, family, your pets, the universe; but most of all, yourself. When you love yourself its easier to love others. And I do think its easier to love others over ones self many a time. I might be guilty.

But with all this talk of love, leads to one of the better teas you’re going to find. How I’m just getting to writing about Pukka and one of their fine teas is one of those things I just can’t explain. Maybe I’ve had a cup and not realized. Maybe it was worth before I start writing. Whatever the case, it has led me here and has led me to the exquisite Love Tea. I love that it’s called Love. There’s no pun there, I promise you.

PukkaTeaCup

But this is just as beautiful as the name implies. The flavors of chamomile, lavender, and elderflower are as lovely as a blend as you’re going to find. Oh my goodness. This is meant to be drank hot and I think I heated this just a little more than I intended, and I think it came out that much better.

PukkaTeaCupCat1

That color illuminates and it paired perfectly with some sweet treats. But you could easily have it withing nothing at all. I prefer most of cups of tea to be savored in all their glory by itself, but a little cookie or pastry never hurt anybody.

PukkaTeaDisplay

So in my own way, I celebrated this forthcoming holiday with a display of things that might make you happy, and some that make me happy.

PukkaTeaCupCat4

I’ve always had a love for our animal friends, and any depiction or illustration makes me happy and feel good as well. It’s the timeless images that will last with us forever. And to me that’s love. It’s not meant to be reserved for a single day or a single event.

PukkaTeaCupCat3

There’s more than enough good, more than enough love, and more than enough love to go around.

PukkaTeaCup2

This tea brought me so much joy and I felt love, and I’m not sure from exactly where. I don’t need to know nor do I have to know. I just know it was there.

PukkaTeaDisplay2

And after reading this story, it’s beautiful to know that there’s a story of true love that inspired this tea.

To find out more about Pukka Herbs, here is a list of all their teas (including Love which is in the Relax grouping of teas), their mission, a section on our well being, and something inspirational.

To get in touch you can find them here. And I’ve seen their teas in many grocery stores and retailers so it should be easy to find.

I took way to long to write about Pukka. I’m just getting started, I’m just getting warmed up, and I’m feeling even more love in the air as I keep writing this out to you. That’s love.

I loved this tea and everything it symbolizes. It resonates in me something beautiful.

I wish you a most wonderful day of love, not just on the 14th, but all days possible. If I’m in a harmonious place, I will continue this love of love next week, and beyond.

Let’s do it again sometime.

Peace Be With You.

Ideen

Grateful For The Spice & Tea Exchange

November 28, 2017Ideen Barimani Tea 1 Comment

ChocolateCandyCane3

Well here we are. Thanksgiving has passed, and we’re well into this most beautiful of times of year. And when it comes to tea and beautiful times of tear, that can only mean the fine folks of The Spice & Tea Exchange.

Spice&TeaWinterDisplay2

The Spice & Tea Exchange go hand in hand with all that is good about tea, and all that is good about the holidays. They’ve been so good to me throughout this blog, it’s only fitting that the first ‘official’ teas I review post Thanksgiving into Christmas is in honor and tribute to them. It would’t be right otherwise.

Here is my ever growing with this iconic and mesmerizing brand of tea.

Spice&TeaWinterDisplay

With amazing tea, comes the most work and thought put into it. As with the holidays, a lot of heavy lifting, shopping, card writing, errands, the parties, and everything else in between is going to rear it’s holiday head.

It’s up to me, to you, and the universe to appreciate and savor these moments, or rush everything to the point of not living in any one moment. I’ve been guilty of that continuously. So for that reason and many others, I took my time here. I really took my time here.

The prepping, steeping, brewing, display set up, and all the other minor details took an hour or so. In the past I may have rushed things. But what is the rush in life? It’s life, it’s the holidays, it’s time to savor every moment possible. It’s plausible I may rush through the teas I’m going to review but I really don’t want to. I want to tell you how beautiful and charming this experience was. Because it was.

And I’m so happy and grateful that I’m able to visit their many locations. This past week it brought me back to their most charming of stores in historic Downtown Annapolis.

Spice&TeaWinter

With the Christmas Spirit in the air, and another heartwarming visit to one of my favorite towns, it’s time to review their three teas for this season.

And you will see of old friends along the way, that I’ve used as infusers before. You could call them the ghost of infusers past. Yes I really just wrote that.

First, is the Winter Granola Herbal Tea.

What I love about this is while it smells amazing when you first open this bag, and the aromas really hit you, it’s not as strong upon actual prepping. And while that may sound like a bad thing, or bait-and-switch, it’s exactly what you want.

WinterGranola1

My old pal the ManaTea is what I used, and initially it was a struggle. I only blame myself. I think this infuser is perfect for certain loose teas that don’t have as many solid pieces. Get what I’m saying? But I wouldn’t let that deter me. Like I said, I remained patient, and wanted this to be as memorable and perfect for me as possible.

WinterGranola3

Yes I took my time, and finally we got that color to shine through. However, as I was saying, maybe this is how it was going to turn out regardless of whatever infuser I used.

WinterGranola2

It’s light and has the perfect balance of maple, apple, orange, and cinnamon. Yes this goes perfectly with breakfast. I broke out some old pumpkin oatmeal I got off clearance, and it was a match made in holiday season heaven, or something. Yes, it was beautiful. This is a well crafted and constructed tea. But I don’t think I could drink it outside of morning time. And that’s exactly what’s intended. Beautiful.

Second, is the one a few of my friends were most intrigued about, the Chocolate Candy Cane Tea.

Again, it’s so powerful on the nose that you would expect it to be too sweet (ha) when you sip. Oh no, it’s refreshingly light on the tongue and it’s a still a black tea at heart. And it’s so good to my heart and soul. And the Pink Pig Infuser was ready to step up and steep. And my cup got dark in a hurry, which is what made me initially think this was going to sweeter to the point of uncomfortable.

Again, it was the most pleasant of surprises. And the lightness of the chocolate, the peppermint, and the candy cane makes this a blessing for those who find the candies of this season, that this tea represents a bit too harsh.

I put those said candies on display but strictly for display purposes. Well maybe I indulged in a few.

Last and certainly not least is the Gingersnap Herbal Tea.

This was my favorite, simply because it’s most like a tea I could drink all year round. I love ginger and it’s the most distinct taste in this tea. While you have vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, and lemongrass, you still have ginger, and that makes so happy. The smell of the bag will make you think of those tasty gingersnap cookies, and who doesn’t love that?

This is tea I can have all the time, and I think my ducky friend would approve. And I think he brought some company. This one is feeling a bit festive right? I love that.

GingerSnap3

There’s the cookies but you really don’t need anything with this tea. It’s a caffeine free and herbal gem that I want right now. So that’s what I’m going to do.

GingerSnap1

Oh man, I went into this thinking this would be the heavy lifting portion of my holiday tea posts. I don’t know. It seems The Spice & Tea Exchange makes the love of tea so joyous, so effortless, and reminds me why I keep doing what I’m doing. I’m so blessed.

Spice&TeaWinter3

I’m happy to present these to you while it’s still November. But I also think that all the posts that proceed this have a lot to live up to. If time allows, during the month of December I will try to throw in some more than weekly posts. I tried that for the last couple of weeks and happy with how that turned out.

Spice&TeaWinter2

But for The Spice & Tea Exchange I’m going to savor this for a while, into next week, and beyond. Just when I think I’ve run out of things to say about them, they just create a whole new world of joy, and happiness.

That’s the true spirit of the holidays.

For all your shopping needs, click here, here is their list of locations, and contact info.

This will be a repeated message, but I wish you and yours a happy, safe, and most amazing of holiday seasons.

Peace be with you.

Ideen

Happy Thanksgiving Week…

November 19, 2017Ideen Barimani Tea Leave a comment

RepublicCaramelDisplay2

Three is a number. I did three posts last week, and I’m compelled to do it again.

As we march towards Thanksgiving, the amount of tea I tried, and want to keep trying got a little overwhelming. Some brands I will try to revisit after turkey day, if time and the place permits. I’ll make time.

But for now, I’m recapping three from Republic of Tea.

RepublicOfTeas

The Pumpkin Spice, Caramel Apple Caramel Apple, and Hot Apple Cider teas were all unique and had something to offer for all the same and for different reasons. I purposely listed the teas in that order as it’s a segue from one holiday season to another. I know, we got here to fast.

RepublicTeas

While three distinct teas, they all carry an aura of familiarity compared to the other. It could be that drinking so many in a short of time, may dilute the flavors.

It’s also rapid fire time. I’ll tell you, in the time I’ve been doing this, there will never be enough time, there will never be enough teas, and thank goodness for that. I also got lost in how many teas came to me without even looking. There might be a week where I have no idea what I’m doing, and I make a discovery at the final hour. Sometimes I do better at the last minute.

But when I find blends that add to an already growing list, I find that even more of an adventure. How much more effort do I put into these teas, while I have time to take pictures, set up displays, and take more careful sips.

In the end it always works out. But it looks like this will be another week of multiple posts. And what’s the holidays without a little more excess? Oh man I’ve been watching too many dopey holiday cinemas already.

So here are the three, in sequential order, with some snacks and displays to go with each.

First, the Pumpkin Spice.

With all the cans, the immediate aromas after opening are all the pumpkin you can handle, and I adore it. Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and all the other joys of autumn. I was initially worried when I saw the water turn blurry almost immediately after dropping the bag in the cup. That may be the signs of a defective bag. But all fears vanished immediately.

Black tea and pumpkin, with all these other magical flavors, is a match made in tea wonderland. I also just love black tea right now. It reminds me of growing up, being around good people, around family, friends, and enjoying myself. At the time I was drinking this, it was just the tea I needed.

RepublicPumpkinDisplay1

Thankfully these tins are in 50 count bags, so I will be enjoying this after the new year. That’s exactly right. As you see, some friends joined the party and helped me indulge in some holiday chocolate treats.

The Caramel Apple is the simplest of the three. And that doesn’t mean it’s any less in quality. While I’ve grown to love Rooibos, and love it some more, this wasn’t my favorite. While I still enjoyed it, nothing about this made me go crazy over this tea. Personally, caramel doesn’t always work for me in certain situations. This is a matter of taste and acquired taste. Less is more, and while this is a good tea, it wasn’t the best I’ve had.

In a different setting, with different people, or in a different frame of mind I might be giving you another story. And perhaps in a little while, I may give you another story.

RepublicCaramelDisplay1

Was there meant to be a turkey in this setting? Haha oops.

The Hot Apple Cider is created in a way to mirror how cider would taste in its natural form. Those aren’t my words, they’re in the description. Well maybe I’m overanalyzing.

This one is fun, and in a way that doesn’t take itself too seriously. That’s how I feel about all three of their teas. There’s a lot of care put into it without being too pretentious. And the aura of this company gives one of a a regal nature.

RepublicHotAppleCiderDisplay2

The flavors of apple, cinnamon, and the many other fruit and fall flavors, make this a joy to drink into the holidays, late into winter, and good for many other situations. This is a a tea for now and forever. Wow that was dramatic, but I mean that.

These teas are symbolic of what’s good in the world and what’s good about the holidays. And you can’t ask for much more than that. There’s no need to.

I found these teas already at a discounted rate at my local grocery store, so hopefully if you’re in the market for some of these, you can find them.

For more on The Republic of Tea, here is their story, their social responsibility, and contact information.

I wrote about them some time back, and will not wait this long to do so again.

Their teas are available for purchase online. And while their teas are mainly $10 and up, for a count of 50 and then some, I think you’re getting your monies worth.

Happy Early Thanksgiving to you. I hope it’s an enjoyable one for you and your loved ones.

Ideen

Warms The Heart…

November 14, 2017Ideen Barimani Tea Leave a comment

WegmansHearthWarmerDisplay3

I love having too many teas to write about. I just wish I had more time. There will never be enough time. I mentioned yesterday that this will be part of a trilogy. In a proper sense, I would write about Wegmans loose leaf teas in a spaced out weekly fashion like I’ve done in these three years of post. Oh my goodness, this blog is three years in. It’s been long overdue to change up a few things.

But the more things stay the same, I still believe things are meant to evolve organically, naturally, and all in good time my friends. But with a that being said (and I’m not even sure what I’m saying), it’s time to talk about the next two teas from my new favorite tea shoppe, the Wegmans loose leaf tea department.

The Sweet Cinnamon Tisane looks, smells, and tastes exactly how I envisioned when I first grabbed a whiff at the store. I mean cinnamon should be a part of everyday life, and I imagine for many of us it is. I have it with coffee, toast, breakfast, and with many of my teas. To already have cinnamon, which has so many health benefits, infused into this herbal gem, makes me so happy. And it’s decaffeinated to boot, so you can drink this at all hours of the day without fear or worry about staying up all night. But this is a tea worth staying up all night for. Wait, not sure if that impassioned statement kind of backfired but oh well!

Just that color and all the lovely melange of herbs makes me yearn for this time of year. But this is an all the time tea and can be paired with anything or nothing at all. After a sizable meal or eating loads of comfort food at an upcoming party this’ll settle you down.

WegmansSweetCinnamonTeaDisplay1

You know what else settles me down? My love for animals. And as I said yesterday, there will be hints of the holidays to come and a celebration of cups, mugs, artifacts, gems, and what have you of what makes me happy, not just this year, but any year.

Some dear friends of mine gave me this beautiful Labrador Retriever Dog Plate as a birthday gift. I’m so grateful.

WegmansSweetCinnamonCookies

Throw in a few pumpkin cookies and I’m good to go. I don’ t think I ate them though haha.

WegmansSweetCinnamonTeaDisplay2

I love animals so much, including my four legged dog friends, that I felt the need to honor them. And I want to honor and salute them as much as possible. They’re even more important to us during the holidays.

Next is the Hearth Warmer Blend, which up until a few minutes ago I thought was the Heart Warmer Blend. So instead of changing my title, I’m going to own my clumsiness. Hey it’s the holidays, I get a pass don’t I?

I have to laugh at the synopsis of this one. Lots of vague words like notes, aromas, flavors, and balance. Oh and something about chocolate.

This tea was fine, but I don’t even remember how it tasted now that I think about it. And I don’t even mean to say it as a bad thing. Nothing about it stood out or told me, ‘oh man this is a great tea!’. It’s one of those teas that I kind of don’t even want to try anytime soon. I may not be making sense but I rather be an enigma just like the description reads. I’m just realizing this now as I write this to you.

WegmansHearthWarmerTeaDisplay3

Maybe I’m just entertaining myself, or making more of a production than I intended. But I’m in a festive mood, it’s the holiday season, and having fun with tea or anything is what life is all about. Still with that being said, I’m not sure what to make of this tea. Maybe I’ll revisit it down the line, and compare and contrast it to something. To what I don’t know.

That’s pumpkin spiced cereal I got at Wegmans on clearance. Yes pumpkin stuff was on clearance starting a few weeks ago. I’m not sure what the rush was, and I shouldn’t complain. I got plenty of cheap eats and material to last a little while…

WegmansHearthWarmerTeaDisplay6

Even better than that, my love of my other favorite four legged pals, my kitten friends. I love my cat so much, and I feel honored to celebrate her here.

This is the middle of this three part story. The finale (well for now) comes tomorrow. Maybe I’m in a funny mood but I think my love of animals on display may have blinded my love for the teas on this go around, especially that Heart(h) Warmer. I’m still puzzled, and I shouldn’t be. But that cinnamon is awesome. If you can find some at your local Wegmans, I’d say go for it.

For more on these teas and their provider, go to ITO EN.

Like I said yesterday, you can grab as little or as much as you want. Some of my bags were barely over $1.00. So it’s good to experiment and prepare for what you may or may not love. It’s a fun process and the journey is just as beautiful as the destination.

I look forward to that journey, and the forthcoming destination continuing tomorrow.

Have a blessed one.

Ideen

Matcha Tea Party

February 21, 2017Ideen Barimani Tea 3 Comments

matchahot1

Just when I think Trader Joe’s has done it all. And just when I think Trader Joe’s has exhausted all of their tea options, or maybe I thought I exhausted all of their options, the gems just keep on coming. I love it and hope it never ends. TJ’s has been a big part of this blog, and I hope that trend continues with periodic write-ups for a long time to come.

Here is my ever-growing history of Trader Joe’s stories.

matchagreentea

My regular tea adviser suggested I go back and try out their brand new Matcha Green Tea Packets. They’re new as in released only a couple of weeks ago. So I feel thrilled to be one of the early guinea pigs (not not really) and one of the first on my block to try out something new, something special, and a different take on the traditional bags and loose leaf variety.

matchafacts

Matcha is one of my favorite teas to begin with. It just has this natural and rough (in a good way) taste, that didn’t take long to grow on me. If you’ve had it then you know what I’m talking about. It’s distinct, it’s natural, and it’s authentic. And the aftertaste lingers for a while. And that’s what you want with a tea and that’s how a tea becomes memorable.

This was memorable.

The trend of pouring powder into a beverage is way past the point of it being a trend. It’s just become what it is. But this might be my first time ever having green tea in powder form. If my memory serves me correct it may be the first time I’ve had any kind of tea in this form.

matchahotprep

On the day I was to try this concoction, the sun was beaming and the weather was just becoming all out gorgeous. The universe looked out for me and I decided to have a sample of the Matcha Tea in hot and iced form. It may have been too sooner for the latter but Spring has shown up much earlier in the Maryland area than usual. No complaints here.

matchahot2

In heated form this is terrific. It has the exact taste you’ve come to expect when drinking Matcha. I’ve never been to Japan and hope to one day, but this is something I can enjoy on a regular basis there or of course at home. It just feels out of this world and always feels like an honor to try. The tannin level felt higher than a tea I’m used to. But that’s Matcha and this is a tea I want to keep getting used to.

matchahotupclose

How about that color? Just the visual of brewing thing was a treat. This is real.

And when the sun in shining the way it is, and it’s still just a little a chilly enough to truly appreciated a hot tea, this was one of my favorite experiences. Actually any great tea sipping can be a a favorite experience. But this was up there. And then the only ingredient is Matcha Green Tea Powder, you know you’re getting the real deal.

matchaiced

The iced version is more of a work in progress for me. That harsh and natural taste (which I only mean in the nicest way) doesn’t translate as well when it’s chilled. I let my heated tea kettle cool for a while, put in some iced cubes, poured that cooled water, and then my Matcha powder, and stirred it for a while. Stirring is necessary or the powder will not dissolve properly. I had a little leftover after my hot cup.

I first tried my chilled version with no sweeteners added and it tasted a little bitter. This is one that need a little honey or sugar. I added just a little bit to the former and now we’re getting going. But for me, this version is more of an acquired taste. And even in the instructions, mentions pouring it into a water bottle and shaking it until it’s blended, without mention of adding anything sweet. But of course we can create it the way we want it. I’m a big believe in less is more but adding a little more will go a long way here.

The chocolate from Trader Joe’s as well worked perfectly with both teas. Actually chocolate just works well with everything. And at my local store they were placed right next to each other. I don’t think that was an accident.

At $7 this was well worth it, even if there’s only seven packets per case.

I will be having more of this in the future and would love to write about it again if the circumstance, the situation (oh wait that’s the same thing as circumstance), and opportunity to share it with others in a different setting presents itself.

matchaiced3

I highly recommend this and I continue to be impressed with all the great new products Trader Joe’s continues to deliver. Well done.

Absolutely well done.

Ideen

Won’t You Be My…

February 14, 2017Ideen Barimani Tea Leave a comment

cupidsarrowready

Happy Valentine’s Day. This is a day with a mixture of emotions for people. It shouldn’t be, but our manufactured societal pressures have placed more emphasis on this day than there really should be. It’s one of those holidays that time doesn’t stop for. The majority of us still go to the workplace and to the classroom like it were any other day. And if we treat this like any other day, than it will be over before you know it. Actually it’ll be over no matter what. That’s how days and times work.

Nevertheless, after the previous weeks post, I wanted to see if I had a little more holiday spirit in me.

Well it’s a different holiday than what I’m used to but I should appreciate the fact that my regular scheduled blog falls on this most polarizing of holidays. I might as well make the most of it. And chances are, I may not get this opportunity again.

And if you or I focus on love, in not just the romantic sense, but love of all, then it makes this and just about any other day that much better. And you don’t need a specific day to show that love and embrace for what makes you feel good.

Do you know what makes me feel good? Well it’s not only tea, but it’s the love of all things natural. I love animals, I love nature, I love plants, flowers, trees being out doors, and most of all our universe. This encompasses so many things, if not everything. I’m grateful to present to you two more teas from a one of my favorite go-to’s Baltimore Coffee and Tea Company. And even more specifically, Eastern Shore Tea Company.

valentinesdisplay

The truly one thing about tea shopping is there will always be teas to fit a certain season, mood, place of healing, and love.

For the love of tea I went with two of the most apropos tea for the occasion. But as you will see, with this tea, just like so many others, these are meant to be sipped all year round, not just in Mid-February.

First is the Chocolate Strawberry. It’s simple, Black Tea with those two flavors added. What I noticed right away is how quick the effectiveness of the steeping came through. The color transformed into a chocolate brown cup at a higher pace than what I’m expected or what I’m accustomed too. I would take that as a testament to the quality of the bags. Either that or I’m losing my marbles. Well the latter is happening anyways, but it was entertaining to see regardless.

chocstrawprep

At first I was hoping for more flavor than what I expected. But I’m drinking this with the understanding that this is a dessert wine. And if was too heavy on the chocolate and strawberry, would the whole tea be undermined? Absolutely. I’ve had teas rich in flavors t that could have benefited from a dialing back. And then there’s others that weren’t flavorful enough, that could have used just a little more. I’m leaning towards this wishing this just had a hint more.

chocstrawcup

It was good but still I feel like that pop was missing. But look what you see here. Yes I really got goofy here and purchased specialty dipped chocolate strawberries. This was strictly for show but figured one wouldn’t hurt.

strawberry

What I also figured is the tea and the chocolate strawberries flavors’ would bounce off one another, as well as intensify the other. That’s exactly what happened. One particular bite from the strawberry and a sip took this experience somewhere I didn’t imagine. For that alone I would try this tea again. But I wouldn’t rank it close to any of my favorites.

chocolatestrawberryready

Next up is the Cupid’s Arrow, after someone we may know.

This surprised the heck out of me, and in a good way. I didn’t think it was going to be anything out-of-this-world to be quite honest. The back tea with flavors of cherry, vanilla, and almond have all the recipes of turning into something legendary or a complete bust. This falls on the former. I wonder if its my slight trepidation of embracing this ‘holiday’. That’s possible, but good tea is good tea. And this wasn’t it. This was actually phenomenal.

cupidsarrowprep

I made myself a second and third helping of this one. You can taste these flavors a bit more distinctly without aid from from a sweet treat or other type of food.

cupidsarrowcup

As you might be able to tell the color is not as strong or as overpowering as the previous selection. It’s not like any of that matters. It’s just an observation. But this was something fun. Maybe because those flavors feel more like winter and more like a year round tea than the aforementioned Chocolate Strawberry.

cupidsarrowready

However, as I said earlier most teas can be had year round. There’s no rules to this. It’s tea, it’s supposed to be fun. Tea Is Fun is not the just the name of a blog but it’s how it’s supposed to be.

Most suppliers give around 20 bags per container for a reason. We will try them again and again with what makes us feel good and feel inspired. The Cupid’s Arrow is an inspiring one. I felt so good after sipping this one in particular. I felt healed. And maybe that’s all in my head but this tea had little more power than it really had any right to be. Maybe it did. Who am I to judge? The cupcakes had nothing to do with any taste enhancing, like it did earlier, by the way. But they look cool don’t they?

cupcakes

And who are we to judge how one celebrates a certain day. I spent more money on myself and this blog than I’ve had in years to commemorate Valentine’s Day. But it was gift to me, to my audience, and to the universe. It was my way of celebrating what I love; nature, animals, and of course tea.

These gifts I bought can be used more than once. These two new teas will last be a while, as well as my new drinking mugs, as well as those orchids. Which are already outside and have been watered.

The sweets won’t last, but not because of me. Someone else can have those. But I’m going to hold on to the tea. And maybe even those new animal friends.

And those are just some of the things I love. And I’m glad I can present tea in a spiritual way that combines many other things that make me feel love. And this is not just one day a year, not a weekly post either, but as much as humanly possible. And that’s the same love I will feel on this day, the next one, and so many more.

Like I said last week, if you’re looking for a different kind of gift for a loved one, I think tea is a fantastic alternative. And at only $5.00 per bags, it’s a fantastic deal. And they’re ribbon bags too! Beautiful.

This experience as beautiful. And if you want to experience these and their massive array of teas click here.

Here’s my written history of the Eastern Shore Tea Company.

More love of tea and all else that is possible, next time.

Love,

Ideen

Love of Tea, and Other Fun Things

February 7, 2017Ideen Barimani Tea 5 Comments

iloveyou6

I had never done a Valentine’s Day themed post, and it really didn’t cross my mind to do one this year. But after consulting my mentor, and realizing that next Tuesday is that day, which means there will continue to be tea posts every Tuesday, I figured it’s meant to be.

Now I’m not the biggest fan nor am I really opposed to this man-made holiday. Well if you read the latter part, you might think I sway towards the negative. You might be correct.

Love should be spontaneous, celebrated throughout the year, and displayed as much as possible. What’s even more important is that love doesn’t necessarily mean between you and your significant other, or spouse, but in all forms.

I love my cat. I love our animal friends. I love my family. I love my friends. And I love my cat. Oh wait…

I love tea. This is a tea blog. So yes, I love tea. And I love tea so much. It brings me joy that is hard to put into words. It shouldn’t be put into words. I let the sipping and the reactions do the talking.

Yes, and I think many of us know we don’t need a special day to do just that. But in honor of such an occasion, I will make the most of it.

Per my tea guru’s suggestion, I’m changing it up this week in a big way.

teavanafront2

If you’ve been to your local shopping district, then by now you know of Teavana. They have taken tea, and essentially loose-leaf tea to unprecedented and transcendent levels.

I’ve been here many times before every writing about it, and many times since. To say the store is still a bit overwhelming after all this time would be correct. But overwhelming doesn’t necessarily mean bad. There’s a lot going on and there’s so many new teas and instruments to discover and learn about. There will never be enough time to learn about everything, and to try and do so would defeat the purpose of this journey. But…

teavana

I obviously don’t have time to write about it all here. What I will say is that I’m happy that this is my inaugural post for Teavana, and this will not be the last.

teavanatin

For this first go around it needed to be done big and done special. Actually getting teas here is an experience. So without further adieu, I present by suggestion from my muse, the Strawberry Blush Rose and Peach Tranquility Blend.

Yes, it couldn’t be just one. And it had to be big for this time of year. Ingredients and instructions for brewing are listed within the page. I’ll let you research that on your own, or otherwise this post would go on till tomorrow.

teavanatin2

And it wasn’t even one. It was actually three. The staff member got me a festive tin, and along with getting the blend of the two teas, I also got them separate. So I was already getting ahead of myself assuming the two were kindred spirits that could not be separated. Wait what? Yes, all the love references are deliberate but are also flowing naturally.

Pictures of the tin standing and taken apart are shown here, as well as up-close shots of the tea. Quite impressive right? The process was truly exciting. I’ll get to more about that shortly.

What I will say is that I’m in love. This is masterful concoction of flavors that you would think might be impossible. But no. There’s heart, there’s soul, and there’s a true spirit behind this tea.

The brewing process was an absolutely joy. The aromas from the tea were already getting me jazzed up for what I hoped to be a stimulating and inspiring cup. And how about that tint? I know I know. The tea was a win. The flavors of both worked together perfectly. I could see why so many folks have regarded this so highly. The after taste of rose hips was truly a highlight. There’s also just about every fruit known to man and woman. If you can discover them all then you’re a rock star. I’m happy with it nevertheless. And it paired nicely with some thin lemon cookies.

And if you notice, I show you what makes me happy, brings me joy, and truly brings out the love. Yes, a miniature rubber ducky! Ha. well that and my love for animals in all shapes and sizes. And I obtained a certain special teacup to celebrate even more love. I would be lying if I said the tea didn’t taste just a little bit better because of the props. But I digress. This tea would be awesome under any circumstance. But hopefully it’s a joyous one.

teablend

I did get a bit carried away. Maybe I should have tried one of the flavors on its own first. Well there’s a first and second time for everything.

iloveyou4

Even though I’m working backwards, I’m actually going in the order of the teas that were brewed. Next up was Strawberry Blush by itself.

strawberrytea3

I think I liked this even just a little more. Maybe because it was the simplicity of it. It was sipped in its own sans the blend, and even more flavors were able to be discovered on its own. I would be lying if I said one was truly better than the other. But for a personal thing, I give this the slightest edge. And that color is just as beautiful.

tothemoon

I got another teacup for this one too!

Maybe it was the simplistic aspect of it, or maybe it was the chocolate truffles that paired with this chocolate did the trick. See I guess I’m a sucker for this holiday after all. Well.

For me, this was a gift to myself, to the universe, from the universe, and hopefully someone reading will find this as a plausible gift alternative to the standard flowers, candy, and chocolates. Well chocolates are good. I just told you I had some!

And when I was done steeping I had a few pieces of strawberry and other random fruits. Yes you can do that. That’s an added bonus I don’t think you’ll find on the website.

I want to mention that Teavana is on the higher end of teas. This is significantly higher than your budget friendly teas at your local supermarket or neighborhood store. But if you feel like splurging and buying a gift for a loved one, this is going to be different and I think it’s going to be a pleasant surprise to many. And if your loved one is a tea lover, even better.

Because of the price level of these, it’s good to savor teas and brew in small doses and for special occasions.

Prices will vary based on weight, container, and the tea themselves.

I did not purposely leave out the Peach Tranquility Tea. This is where I will push the pause button and resume at a later date. I thin this is one I will have for the Spring or Summer. I will remember this and promise you I will get back to it. I wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t. More importantly, my sense is that this would make an excellent iced tea during the warmer months.

It also gives me something to look forward too. I also feel that Valentine’s Day is good because for many it’s a day of joy but also another sign that warm weather is right around the corner. So I feel that the Peach Tranquility is the perfect segue to talk about down the road.