Tea drinking has become a way of life. To put it frankly, it is a love, an addiction, and some would even go as far to say a philosophy. Dr. Keith Souter examines the perpetual impact that this adored beverage has bestowed upon the world for centuries, from its mystical origins in the East, to its inevitable influence on the West. The Tea Cyclopedia is an indispensable reference for anyone … anyone interested in all things tea. Commencing each chapter with insightful quotes, it not only captures the historical beginnings of this beloved drink, but also explores tea’s involvement in politics, health, the economy, and even fortune-telling. This unprecedented beverage has united people in times of adversity; it has also divided nations, causing volatile revolutions, such as the Sri Lankan Civil War and the Boston Tea Party. But today you will most likely find that various cultures have developed their own unique style of enjoying tea, and the ritual of tea drinking itself is not only intriguing, but also highly rewarding.
In this meticulously detailed guide, readers will rediscover tea, its cultivation, and all of its richness and intricacy as a worldwide beverage. The Tea Cyclopedia is an enthralling tribute to the illustrious, invigorating, and elusive leaf that has vehemently continued to inspire people for more than two thousand years.
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The Tea Cyclopedia earns 5/5 Brewed Delights…Enjoyable Facts & Tastes!
There was a time in my youth when tea was my beverage of choice. I was known by my first name at the local tea shoppe, only selected loose leaf blends, and had a collection of tea pots, cups, and strainers that would make any Brit jealous. However, I’ve become more eclectic in my mature years grinding beans, exploring varieties, and savoring coffees from dark to light. “The Tea Cyclopedia” is much like having a reunion with an old friend with whom you’ve lost contact…Hello, dear friend!
Dr. Keith Souter’s “Tea Cyclopedia” offers fascinating insights, information, and a few recipes, separated into three parts and starting with a nice introduction, “Pre-taste.”
Part One “The History of Tea” delves into the history and culture surrounding tea from the BC beginning to more recent millennia, from China to India to Japan, from references in ancient texts to the tea trade that enveloped Europe and America creating additional facets to the tea culture. It was a compelling study filled with information I had never known. I think of tea as a calming libation, but fascinated about the connections, directly and indirectly, to conflict and smuggling.
Part Two “Taking Tea” provides a more practical look at tea with cultivation and processing, types from common to beyond the tea plant, tasting, various accoutrements, rituals and ceremonies from around the world, tea etiquette with instructions, and serving afternoon tea including recipes (Try the Tea Loaf, Scones, or Earl Grey Fairy Cakes). I personally loved the customs and superstitions: apologies, respect, appreciation over a cup of tea; the do-s and don’t-s to avoid conflict or evil spirits; signs of good luck; and the treacherous tea bag loss. The tea loaf was delicious!
Part Three “Using Tea” puts theory into practice; history into a cup. There are several “cocktail” recipes highlighting different teas with and without alcohol, hot or iced, purist to flavored. The health benefits are substantiated by science, but side effects, however uncommon, do exist. Enjoy “quirky” tea experiments, unexpected uses of tea (first-aid, body care and hygiene, gardening, cleaning), tea in literature, and tasseography teacup fortune telling from the ancient to the dangerous (try it yourself with great instructions, key points, and defining symbols). I really enjoyed this part of the book. The “Mar-tea-ni” was delightful chilled, and the “Hot Tea” with an orange twist…yum! I was aware of many medicinal and household uses for tea (acne and cleaning tips), but a few extras were fun (deodorant?). The tasseography was fascinating and includes great resources…add this to your next tea party!
“The Tea Cyclopedia” does read like a textbook in places, although what a fascinating class it would make: Tea 101. It has a plethora of facts, footnoted references, a bibliography, and connections to historical people and events, but it also provides a practical application for the fanatic to the occasional tea lover well worth exploring. The recipes for tea and treats are easy-to-follow with readily available ingredients. What a great book for anyone!
This is a book for the tea lover, beginning with the history of tea; where, when and how it’s grown and harvested; and the varieties and forms available. It describes tea rituals and ceremonies; tea pots and accessories; tea etiquette and afternoon tea with a sampling of recipes. There’s folklore; chemistry; experiments; health benefits and side effects; and statistics as to which countries consume the most tea – and my guesses weren’t even close. There’s even a section on tasseography for those interested in reading tea leaves. Rediscover tea or discover it for the first time within the pages of this book where all things are tea.
I began drinking tea after I visited Russia. Now I live in Japan, another country with a love of tea. I love tea and love learning all about it and this book was packed with the very interesting history of tea.
Very interesting. Contains information I wasn’t formerly aware of
Boring
I learned a lot of very useful facts about tea. Amazing plant with a lot of history and positive benefits. Worth a read.