Smart Food
Last week, I had the opportunity to speak again with Maleah of Cha Cha Tea, who recently competed in the Tea Infusion Challenge at the World Tea Expo. As usual, I learned a lot from Maleah during our chat!
Can you explain the competition?
The Expo President and Vice President created this competition to be like a barista competition. We were given three award-winning teas (a black, an oolong and a green), and had 6 minutes to steep each tea. The competition was run Top Chef style, and we were judged on the color, taste, smell and technical skills used for each tea.
[How did you personally approach this competition?
Traditionally, black, green and oolong teas are steeped in different tea pots. Since I want to make tea simple and approachable, I decided to just use one style of pot for all three types of tea. I focused more on the water temperature, amount of leaf and steeping time. I want to act as a guide for the consumer, and think people will be more willing to try tea if they are comfortable with it and see it as simple.
What is your tea philosophy?
“Enjoy the moment you are in.” Julie’s note: I love this philosophy!
What else have you learned that Savvy Eaters might want to know?
- There is a movement to get people to refer to tea-making as steeping or infusing, rather than brewing. ‘Brewing’ is a coffee term!
- The tea industry is different from a lot of others; the ‘big names’ are approachable and will act as mentors.
- Hawaii has started its own tea movement, and is growing their own tea now. The plants are still young, but the Hawaiians have started their own tea ceremony.
Smart Fitness
Thank you for your input on my running dilemma. I think I’m going to start out easy and see how it goes, but I’m always open to more of your opinions!
Smart Life
As I mentioned last week, Iron Girl sent me a gift basket to give away to one of YOU. I just received it, and it is jam-packed with goodies… including a very special gift! Stay tuned for more details and the start of the giveaway tomorrow!
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
i love love love that you called us “Savvy Eaters!” SO CUTE.
i want a button that says “i am a savvy eater!”
and – the 3 tid bits of knowledge shared at the end there are all REALLY interesting. I want to learn more about Hawaii tea ceremonies!
I would have loved to go to that expo. I love how you are sort of an expert on tea yourself. I always think about your blog when I’m making my tea regarding how long to steep it!
Aww, thanks!
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