You are here: Home / Archives for tea

Let a Warm Beverage Brighten Your Winter

February 2, 2010 By The Recipe Mom 1 Comment
cupoftea

cupofteaWhat can be more warming than curling up with a cup of mulled cider or hot chocolate on a cold winter day? A warm beverage can take the blustery blues out of winter and give us a warm cozy feeling from our heads to our toes. The possibilities for something warm to curl up with are endless and here are just a few ideas.

Kids and adults savor the taste of hot chocolate. Warm milk, chocolate and marshmallows have a way of soothing us. Today packaged hot chocolate mix is in abundance. There are numerous types and various flavors. Yet there’s nothing quite like homemade hot chocolate to warm and sooth a cold and tired body.

Apple cider is a great way to warm up on a blustery day. Mulled cider gets its comforting effect from spices infused in the flavor during heating. Cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves are the spices most often used. Mace, ginger, allspice, orange slices and lemon zest can also bring out the flavor of a mulled cider. Ground spices may be used, but the taste will differ slightly. It’s best to use whole spices to achieve a full flavor.

Steep cider over low heat to achieve the best results when making mulled cider. Simmering the cider for a couple of hours will bring out the best flavor. Do not boil the cider or the taste may become bitter. To keep your cider warm, place it in the crock pot after simmering.

We are fast finding in today’s world that tea is one drink that offers a healthy alternative to caffeinated beverages. There is an abundance of flavored teas, comforting teas and healthy teas available today. Herbal teas have also become a big hit.

Most herbal teas contain no caffeine. Mint teas have large amounts of vitamin C. This may also be a problem for those whose bodies are sensitive to this vitamin. Mint teas, for those who can enjoy them come in many flavors. Peppermint tea is quite soothing but can be hard on the bladder and digestive system if consumed on a regular basis. Spearmint tea is soothing and is easy on the digestive system.

To achieve the perfect mint tea that your body can tolerate try making your own. Add mint leaves to tea while steeping. It may take a few tries to find the right adjustment of mint, but it is well worth it when you do.

Chamomile tea is another comforting herbal tea. Be careful if you are allergic to ragweed as chamomile is related to the ragweed family. Chamomile is great for naturally relieving muscle spasms that can be brought on by the cold weather.

Flavored hot water might sound a little strange but with some imagination flavored hot waters can be quite delicious. Add flavored extracts with a tiny bit of brown sugar or honey. Stir in orange, lemon or lime zest to add flavor. Spices can be added to give hot water a delicious taste.

Enjoying a cup of warmth can be one way to fend off that winter chill. Head off to the grocery store and see what might be available or better yet experiment on your own. Cuddle up and enjoy.

Filed Under: Today's Kitchen Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Chill Fighting Spices

January 26, 2010 By The Recipe Mom Leave a Comment
spicejars

Sspicejarspices are incorporated into our meals everyday. They give our foods a flavor and aroma that can bring even the pickiest of eaters to the table. Spices not only peak our smell and our taste buds but certain spices can also help us fight off a down to bone winter chill. This is just a short list of spices that can warm the toes and tickle the taste buds.

Cinnamon is a winter spice often used for its distinctive taste and smell. Ground cinnamon is great for topping toast, oatmeal and fruit. Cinnamon can be found in many baked foods as well as chili and soup. Add a cinnamon stick to a hot beverage such as tea. Sprinkle a little cinnamon on a bowl of applesauce to give it a naturally sweet taste. Diabetics can use this winter spice to help reduce blood sugar levels along with triglycerides and cholesterol.

Ginger warms a cold body as well as being quite healthy for us. Ginger can be added to soups, sprinkle on vegetables or used on meats to give them a tangy flavor. It can also give tea a zesty bite. Many use this spice to help elevate nausea and migraine headaches and in relieving the pain of arthritis. This spice is known for having powerful anti-inflammatory agents.

Cloves have a distinctive taste. They are often used when roasting meats, such as ham, to give it a full flavor. This spice can be found in those delicious baked foods as well as in many types of tea. Cloves are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric is an Indian spice most often found in powder form. It adds flavor to soups, stews and chili as well as in pasta sauce. It can be used when roasting meats to give them a distinct flavor. Scientific studies have shown that turmeric not only warms the body but can also help in protecting the body against cancer. Turmeric has been used for treating stomach ulcers and relieving free radical stress in people suffering inflammation.

In experimental studies cardamom has been shown to prevent cancer and help in detoxifying the liver. Cardamom is often used in concurrence with cinnamon. Teas, ciders and flavored hot waters are enhanced by cardamom. Cardamom can be added to foods that also contain cloves to enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish.

Just the sound of pepper warms a body. Pepper is a strong spice often used when cooking bland dishes. This spice gives a pungent flavor to almost any food. Adding a little extra pepper instead of salt to your foods can be both a warming and healthy benefit. Pepper is also said to be helpful to those who have asthma.

Adding these spices to winter meals will not only help fight off the cold but can also be a healthy benefit to any diet. These are just a few of the many spices that can enhance the flavor and aroma of your meals. Add them to any of your favorite foods. The taste and smell are sure to warm the body and comfort the soul.

Filed Under: Today's Kitchen Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Warming the Mind as Well as the Body

January 21, 2010 By The Recipe Mom 1 Comment
hotchocolatemarshmallow

hotchocolatemarshmallowThe snow is falling outside and the kids are raring to go. Dressed from head to toe in bundles of clothing they can’t wait to get out side and build that snowman. They are warm now but in a short time the cold will settle in. Be prepared to warm them up by heading to kitchen to prepare foods that will warm not only their bodies but their minds.

Everyone knows that good nutrition if an important part of keeping our children warm and healthy. It is also a way to keep their minds warm and healthy. Playing naturally gives a child that famished feeling but the cold can triple that feeling. Warm and nutritious snacks can help revitalize their bodies as well as their minds.

The body can “shut down” when it’s overly cold. This chill can also shut down the thinking process. This makes it even more important when it comes to filling them with soothing warm drinks and foods.

Warm beverages are a wonderful way to warm up a child. Tea, warm cider and hot chocolate are drinks that children will relish when they are cold outside. Add a few marshmallows to that hot chocolate and the kids will be in warmth heaven.

Chicken broth is a way to include warmth into a health snack. There is something to be said about having a cup of chicken broth when you are sick. It gives us that warm, cozy feeling. It works just as well when fending off that winter chill.

Children of all ages love a good grilled cheese sandwich. Add a cup of soup to make a simple but warming meal.

Another way to warm up the kids is by keeping the kitchen toasty warm. Start by preheating the oven just before it’s time for them to come in out of the cold. Once they are in and have that cup of hot chocolate let them help with fixing lunch, a warm snack or baking those delicious cookies. There’s nothing like a toasty warm kitchen to fend off the worst winter chill.

Warming both the body and mind is important to keep our children healthy, happy and wise. Giving them foods and beverages they enjoy after a frolic in the cold is one way to ensure they maintain good health. Spending some time with them in a warm kitchen is one way for you to be sure they stay happy and maintain good health – both physically and mentally!

Filed Under: Today's Kitchen Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Apple Cinnamon Party Tea

December 13, 2009 By The Recipe Mom 2 Comments
cinnamonsticksbow

cinnamonsticksbowWhat You Need:

6 C of water
5 cinnamon apple spice tea bags
1 (6 oz.) can orange juice concentrate, thawed
1/2 C of honey

How to Make It:

Pour the water into a saucepan and add the tea bags.
Place the pan over medium high heat and bring the water to a boil.
Take the pan from the heat and allow the tea to stand for 5 minutes.
Remove and discard the tea bags.
Add the orange juice and stir until blended in well.
Whisk in the honey until it has completely melted.

Makes 10 servings

To make this tea a little more festive, add cinnamon sticks or oranges slices to each cup before serving. It’s a wonderful way to keep the kids warm and toasty while they celebrate the coming of a new year.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Steeping Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information per cup: (approximate values)
Calories 80; fat 0 g; sodium 0 mg; carbohydrates 21 g; sugar 20 g; protein 0 g

Filed Under: Drinks and Smoothies, Kid Friendly, Party Foods, Recipe Cards Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Toasting with Holiday Beverages

December 1, 2009 By The Recipe Mom Leave a Comment

punchBeverages are a big part of a holiday celebration. Holiday beverages are the perfect topper for a great dinner or the wake up for morning breakfast and are important when it comes to those holiday toasts.

Eggnog tops the list of holiday beverages. Eggnog is made with eggs of course. Some people may be concerned about raw eggs. If that’s the case, you can purchase chilled eggnog in the carton. There are numerous recipes for eggnog. Finding the one that suits your taste buds and needs won’t be hard to do.

Eggnog is traditionally an alcoholic drink but it’s not an absolute necessity to add the alcohol. Adults and children alike can enjoy a tasty non-alcoholic version. Add a little nutmeg or cinnamon to the top of each glass to give it a special holiday taste.

Heat up some apple cider for the holiday toast. This warm apple drink keeps the chill away when the weather outside is frightful. Add slices of citrus fruits and cinnamon sticks. Use citrus peels to garnish each cup.

Wassail is a popular European holiday drink that has found its place in our holidays. Served hot this spiced punch can be made with mulled cider instead of the traditional mulled beer. The ingredients were heated together and topped with toast. Even with the soggy bread this punch is a holiday tradition in many homes.

Punches of all kinds are a hit when it comes to holiday beverages. A sparkling punch, fruit punch or citrus punch can spruce up any holiday gathering. For presentation add colored ice cubes. Red and green Kool-Aid make great holiday punch ice cubes. Add red and green maraschino cherries for a special touch.

How about a Christmas tea? Peppermint teas are a great way to toast the holiday. Cinnamon teas give you that Christmas warmth. If you have a diabetic family member teas may be easier to handle than some of the sweet or alcoholic type of beverages.

One last beverage to remember is the hot chocolate. Use milk instead of water for a creamier version. There’s nothing like hot chocolate to warm the body on a snowy Christmas night. Don’t forget the marshmallows.

There are so many different types of beverages to help you toast the holidays. Try one of these or create your own. Either way here’s to you and yours and a happy and safe holiday season.

Filed Under: Today's Kitchen Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Fruit Flavored Tea Ice Cream

May 27, 2009 By The Recipe Mom Leave a Comment
different-ice-creams

different-ice-creamsWhat You Need:

1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
1/2 C of sugar
3 fruit flavored tea bags
1/2 pint whipping cream
1/2 t vanilla

How to Make It:

Place the milk into a saucepan and place the pan on medium heat.
Whisk the sugar into the milk.
Continue whisk and cook the mixture 3 minutes being sure the sugar is completely dissolved.
Heat the mixture 1 minute longer.
Remove the pan and place the tea bags into the pan.
Steep the tea for 5 minutes then remove the tea bags and discard.
Cover the pan tightly and chill for 2 hours.
Pour the whipping cream into the mixture.
Fold in the vanilla and stir until the ingredients are well combined.
Transfer to the ice cream maker and freeze according the manufacturer’s directions.
Ripen in the freezer for 4 hours if desired.

Makes 1 quart

Taste the mixture after steeping the tea to insure it is strong enough. If you like your tea taste a little strong add another tea bag and steep for 3 additional minutes. If you prefer loose tea add 3 T to the hot milk and steep for 5 minutes. Strain and continue following the recipe directions above.

Filed Under: Desserts, Ice Cream, Kid Friendly, Recipes, Snacks, Summer Cooking, Today's Kitchen Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Host a Mother-Daughter Tea Party

May 7, 2009 By The Recipe Mom 1 Comment

teaMother’s Day is right around the corner. Now is the time to start planning your special activities for this special day. Have you ever considered a Mother-Daughter tea party? This can include family and friends also. Below are just a few ideas to get your tea party rolling.

Keep in mind that simple is better. If you keep things simple it will be easier and more elegant without all of the worries. Don’t have a full tea set sitting around? You can find some very nice sets in places like Goodwill, flea markets or thrift stores at a very reasonable price. Another idea is to ask everyone to bring their own special set. This will allow everyone to tell why these sets are so special to them.

First things first, decide on a particular theme for your tea party. Below are three simple yet special themes you can try.

The Mother-Daughter Theme

This works well with Mothers who have grown up daughters. Keep the decorations simple like small flower arrangements that will grace the table alongside the tea cups and saucers. This setting will be pleasing to the eyes and the heart. The menu can consist of finger sandwiches, cookies and scones. Have the Mothers and daughters write a note or letter to each sharing how much they love and appreciate each other.

The Mommy & Me Theme

For the Moms of younger girls this will be really cute. Mom can dress up elegantly and the girls can rummage through Mom’s closet to find dresses, shoes, gloves and jewelry to be equally as elegant as Mom. This tea party can include cookies or simple finger foods along with lemonade, punch or hot chocolate. Create the invitations to request every child to bring a stuffed animal guest to share the table.

The Summer Time Tea Party

We all know that Mother’s Day is celebrated in May. This is just prior to the official start of the summer season. Why not take this opportunity to serve flavored iced tea instead. Instead of tea cups use iced tea glasses and serve the typical summer time appetizers. Everyone can dress in straw hats, sunglasses and flip-flops or sandals. This should get you excited about the warmer weather to come.

Brewing tea actually isn’t that difficult. Once you learn the ins and outs you will be able to brew the perfect pot of tea. You can start by purchasing the sampler boxes of tea. This will allow everyone a choice. You can also add flavorings to a glass of iced tea for a refreshing taste.

These are just a few suggestions for a Mother- Daughter tea party. These ideas will make your tea party a success and allow you to have fun and enjoy each others company. Who knows this could become a tradition that could last for generations to come.

Reblog this post [with Zemanta]
Filed Under: Mothers Day, Time Saving Tips, Today's Kitchen Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Give Mom Gourmet Food Gifts

April 23, 2009 By The Recipe Mom Leave a Comment

pinkbudsDoes your Mother like gourmet food? If she does, then give her a gift of food for Mothers Day. This will warm her heart and fill her stomach with yummy goodness. Here are some great gourmet food gift ideas to get you started.

Does your Mom love chocolate? If the answer is yes, then a basket full of her favorite chocolates will hit the spot. One great idea is a chocolate from around the world basket. These baskets can be filled with bars of chocolate, hot chocolate or other chocolate goodies from different regions or places famous for their chocolate

Does your Mother enjoy the taste of wine? A nice gift for the Mom who enjoys wine might be a gift of wine tasting at a local winery. Why not take a trip to a local wine shop and purchase a selection of wines? Then Mom could have a private wine tasting in her own home. Artisan cheeses and an assortment of crackers will go along well with any wines you have chosen. You will have a lovely gift if you package this entire selection up in a basket with appropriate accoutrements.

Is your Mom a lover of a specific cuisine? Does she like Italian, French or Mexican? Whatever Mom prefers, go to the store and put together the ingredients for a delicious meal. This includes appetizers and desserts. Remember to include the recipes for each item. Just for example we will use Italian. Your menu could include a breakfast salad, her favorite pasta and sauce, complimentary wine and tiramisu for dessert. To complete the gift use some Italian themed items.

Perhaps your Mother loves the different tastes of coffee and tea. A pretty tea cup and saucer or even a coffee mug with meaningful images or inspirational words would be a thoughtful gift. You can include an assortment of tea bags or one pot coffee bags of different varieties in these cups. Add flavored creamers or special sugars to the assortment. Even a new tea of coffee pot can be added to this arrangement. Don’t forget to add a tea strainer for loose leaves or a special coffee scoop.

How about fresh fruit? Does Mom love Georgia peaches but she lives where Washington apples grow? Maybe Mom craves Florida or California citrus but lives in Michigan where cherries are plentiful but no citrus grows. It may be too expensive for you to send Mom where her favorite fruit grows so how about “ordering in”. Mom’s favorite fruit can be shipped to her (depending on agricultural guidelines). You can even give Mom the gift of fruit trees or plants for her ongoing pleasure.

Maybe your Mom is a food lover in general. One great gift for her would be a membership to a food of the month club. There are a number of these clubs. A few of the monthly choices offered at these clubs are, desserts, soups, steaks, cheese, pasta and pizza. You can even get a membership for a dinner of the month club, too.

The gift of gourmet food is as easy as that. On Mother’s Day find just the perfect gift to show mom just how much you love and appreciate her.

Filed Under: Mothers Day, Today's Kitchen Tagged With: , , , , , , ,