Serendipitea: A Guide To The Varieties, Origins, And Rituals Of Tea (Hardcover)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

The history of tea is a long and fascinating one. Imbibing this refreshing drink, cultivated in more than 40 countries, has been a popular way to relax for thousands of years; in fact, there are many more tea drinkers than coffee drinkers in the world. There are a huge number of varieties of tea, but almost more important than the tea itself are the many social rituals associated with it. Tomislav Podreka, a tea expert, elucidates the history and characteristics of teas around the world in this truly lovely little book. In addition, Podreka explains how to prepare and steep green teas, black teas, white teas, pouchong teas, and oolong teas; tells how to properly serve tea; and offers a series of delightful teatime recipes that may properly accompany any fine cuppa. Beware: this may well turn the reader into a tea aficionado, for whom no mass-produced teabag will ever be good enough again.

Product Description

The pleasures and benefits of tea have been known and enjoyed for close to five thousand years -- after water, it is the most consumed beverage in the world. Yet only in recent years has tea come into its own in the United States; since 1990, tea consumption has doubled.

In Serendipitea, Tomislav Podreka, a tea specialist, explores the history and philosophy of tea and shares little-known anecdotes and myths. He takes us on a fascinating journey through the many tea-producing countries, looking at all the various types of tea, their origins and lore, and the distinctive taste, aroma, and leaf of each region. Serendipitea focuses on tea rituals from around the world, and looks at how the ceremony of taking tea is integral to so many cultures -- from the revered Japanese "Cha-no-yu" to the classic British "cuppa." Also included are a few recipes of chosen food offerings from each of the countries covered.

The author discusses the important difference in quality between bagged varieties and premium loose leaf teas, advising on the best steeping techniques. He also includes chapters evaluating the latest health benefits associated with tea, as well as herbal infusions and tisanes.

The pleasures and benefits of tea have been known and enjoyed for close to five thousand years -- after water, it is the most consumed beverage in the world. Yet only in recent years has tea come into its own in the United States; since 1990, tea consumption has doubled.

In Serendipitea, Tomislav Podreka, a tea specialist, explores the history and philosophy of tea and shares little-known anecdotes and myths. He takes us on a fascinating journey through the many tea-producing countries, looking at all the various types of tea, their origins and lore, and the distinctive taste, aroma, and leaf of each region. Serendipitea focuses on tea rituals from around the world, and looks at how the ceremony of taking tea is integral to so many cultures -- from the revered Japanese "Cha-no-yu" to the classic British "cuppa." Also included are a few recipes of chosen food offerings from each of the countries covered.

The author discusses the important difference in quality between bagged varieties and premium loose leaf teas, advising on the best steeping techniques. He also includes chapters evaluating the latest health benefits associated with tea, as well as herbal infusions and tisanes.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 208 pages
• Publisher: William Morrow Cookbooks; 1st edition (September 16, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0688158080
• ISBN-13: 978-0688158088
• Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 5.6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,228,590 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars As pleasurable as a hot cup of tea!, February 4, 1999

By A Customer

I received this book as a birthday gift from British friends who know I love tea. What a joy it is! The entire history of tea, health benefits, gourmet teas explained, and lots of interesting recipes for tea accompaniments from around the world. It is well written, informative,and a real delight to read.

4 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Tea - from a purist's view, February 18, 1999

By A Customer

This book is great for the beginner looking to explore the world of tea. It covers everything from the origin of tea to best brewing methods. A very good read!