An Intimate Panel Discussion by The Meaning of Tea

Loose-Leaf Tea Leaves by TheMeaningofTea.com

An audience member told the story of a Chinese philosopher seeking to learn all medicinal 10,000 herbs. Towards the end of his life, the philosopher had learned 5,000 of the 10,000 herbs. Upon his deathbed, a student boldly asked about the other 5,000 herbs and where to find the information. The Philosopher shared the instructions of where to find his research with the inquisitive student. After his death, the student followed the philosopher’s directions to find the information about the last 5,000 medicinal herbs. Opening the drawer, the student only found Camellia Sinensis, the leaf used for tea. Read more

Apple Cider Green Beans with Bacon

Apple Cider Green Beans with Bacon

Apple Cider Green Beans with Bacon

Southern vegetable dishes are usually slowly simmered and seasoned with pork for a long period of time, creating a salty flavor killing all signs of life. The cooking time of green beans are easily indicated by the color. Freshly picked green beans have a mild color turning a bright spring green when blanched. Southern recipes use long cooked green beans with a dark, military green hue. Read more

Lamb Chops with Apple Cider Sauce over Couscous with Dried Fruit

Lamb Chops with Apple Cider Sauce over Couscous with Dried Fruit

Lamb Chops with Apple Cider Sauce over Couscous with Dried Fruit

Confession: I used to think red meat and pork was unhealthy. While at a dinner party a few years ago, someone ordered seared lamb chops. They looked irresistible. He sliced into one and offered a taste. How could I resist? I blame the wine for having the courage to say yes. Like a crack addict, each medium-rare chew was a sensuous flavor of high delight. It was unforgettable. Read more

Orange Whipped Sweet Potatoes with Hazelnuts

Orange Whipped Sweet Potatoes with Hazelnuts

Orange Whipped Sweet Potatoes with Hazelnuts

Knowing the holidays are upon us, it’s time we organize and plan our menus to reflect this festive time of year of giving and eating. From now until New Year’s, I’m introducing a series of fresh and healthy dishes for the holidays. Some recipes are reinterpretations of classic recipes with a healthy twist. Other recipes are new ideas to serve with traditional classics. The festive holidays are no different then the rest of year, for we should all strive for a healthy and balance lifestyle everyday.

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Lemon Ginger Tea

Lemon Ginger Tea

It’s that time of year when everyone or someone is not quite feeling well with colds, sore throats, body aches and headaches. As much as we try to avoid becoming ill, eventually the cold catches up to most of us at least once per year, and it’s usually when we’re most stressed. Medications temporarily offer relief from annoying dry coughs, nasal drippings, and pounding headaches; vitamins promise over night cures; and a wise visit to a doctor for practical treatment are one of the many ways to seek relief from minor colds. Occasionally, I patiently wait for a soothing cup of Ginger Lemon Tea, a classic homestyle treat. Read more