On boot-wearing, cold, rustic days like these, my hands have been finding warmth around the ceramic, white of tea cups. And, when I go to make a cup of herbal tea, I find myself thinking of Grandma Jane, and her ginger tea.
During a brief holiday, I was congested, puffy-eyed, and miserable from a 6 hour drive from Utah into Las Vegas. As I stepped in the door, Grandma Jane's [motherly] instincts went into high gear, and she handed me a cup of sweet, peppery tea, "This is going to help you. Drink slowly. Now."
She was adamant about finishing the tea. She sat across me, waiting, patiently, ensuring me this was going to help. I forgot about how miserable I felt, and I remember sipping quietly. There was a quiet ambiance in the room, and of course, my grandma's hazy, silhouette in the foreground.
I love a warm, fluid, cup of herbal tea. While I don't drink caffiene, a gleaming sprig of mint, or a teaspoon of mild honey-flowery chamomille, or shavings of ginger root is perfect for me. Cleaned, scrubbed, citrus rinds are a lovely adaptation, if I want adventure.
My children had an intense game of ABC match up going on, while I was in the kitchen making tea. I came to sit down on the couch, and they quickly glanced up. Instantly, "T-t-t, I want Teee," I found myself blowing, sipping, slurping, and feeding them by the spoon. Two ounces last only for so long.
I went back to the kitchen, and poured three more cups.
And, than, there's that sound of tea, I love...
The sound of sipping. The cool blowing from the roof of your mouth to ensure hotness. The ting of the spoon as it hits the cup. [The sound comes when making hot chocolate too.]
Family recipes are always composed of wonderful reveries. Somewhere in-between the reminiscing past, and present day round-table, there is an affluent, flowing story.
I have the option to add my own details, if I choose not to, the history can dissolve.
I don't want that.
--------------------------
Grandma Jane's Ginger Tea
boiling water
shavings of fresh ginger root
agave nectar or honey for sweetening
Place shavings in cup. Pour boiling water into cup. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, dependent on how strong you want the flavor. Add agave nector or honey to your own liking.
