Buddha’s Blend… oh Buddha’s blend…
Funny story…
About a week or two ago, I came to work, filled the tea kettle, several minutes later I went back, filled my cup, let it sit for a few more minutes (didn’t want the water to be too hot for this tea), steeped for the appropriate amount of time, then took a sip. You know, you’re usual tea routine…. what’s unusual about it? I didn’t turn on the kettle!! hahahahahaha So I essentially cold steeped this for 3-4mins before taking a surprising sip. Wasn’t expecting that! IT was cooooooold.
I wasn’t thrilled, but I wasn’t… too disappointed either. It actually tastes pretty good cold steeped like that! Who would have guessed? haha I still got all the amazing flavours and didn’t even guess there was hibiscus. But the interesting thing is, it’s WHITE hibiscus. Is there a difference? I think their must be. ‘Cause I didn’t get the evil tart that I normally get with the hibiscus.
So today is the day to drink it hot! I’m steeping for 4mins and I used the last of my sample so SIPDOWN! I was worried I might do the same thing again, but as I’m writing this note, I am distracted by the steam rising and dancing in front of my eyes, calling to me to try it, only it’s not quite ready yet. It’s turning a lovely shade of pale yellow, unlike when I coldsteeped it. At that point it looked like slightly coloured water.
Smells like flowers, which usually turns me off, but this time it’s soothing the surges of frustration that are plaguing me from things not working and me not having much to do today. I want to be busier.
Is it… do I dare say it… should I admit it… It is a flower tea though… and it’s hot…
I’m going to say it!!! I like my accidental cold steep better!!! WHAT?! Say it ain’t so!!
It’s fine hot, but I think the 4 min steep was too long. It’s got a ting of bitterness to it and it’s not nearly as soft and smooth as it was before. I found it to be sweet and light and refreshing… Now I’m finding it to be deeper and a bit… too… much…? I guess. I liked the way the jasmine was just right before, where as now it feels heavy and not nearly as refreshing as before. How is that possible? And if you can get a great cold steep in minutes, why am I not trying it more?!
I am SO confused!! But this tea is delicious and I would probably keep small amounts in my cupboard for those days I’m want something refreshing. But until I drink down some teas, I shall bid this one a farewell… until we meet again…
Maybe today I steeped it in too hot of water…? That could explain the bitterness too.