As we fortify ourselves for certain phase one deprivation, we develop an array of coping mechanisms. Michael and I frequently sit down after dinner in the evenings with a satisfying and warm cup of tea. Tea was once accompanied by things like chocolate cake or my latest Christmas cookie creations, but these days, tea is a more ritualistic affair. We crave something sweet, some comfort, and it seems tea is just the right thing.
Our taste in tea runs the gamut. We brew crazy funky herbal teas, the respectable Earl Grey, serious loose leaf teas in black, white, or green. Jasmine tea is so pleasant to inhale between sips. Simple orange pekoe can be a pleasure as well. So many varieties, some caffeinated, some not, to distract the palate. The warmth of the mug in my hands is comforting and I can sip a hot cup for a good 10 minutes. Yes, keep your brain distracted with a little ritual of tea in the evening and you might perhaps forget all about dessert...here's hoping!
My mania for tea now extends into days at work. I become restless and go to the break room for hot water. I steep my tea and enjoy each sip with a sort of zen-like simplicity. The hot tea in my mug is also a nice pairing with whatever sad little snack I'm currently gnawing.
Almonds go well with my current favorite tea--Yogi brand's Mayan Cocoa Spice--a boon to a chocolate lover like myself. They use actual cocoa in the tea and the blend of spices seems very well done. To some degree, this particular tea takes care of my chocolate craving. I haven't entirely given up on dessert, though. I'm researching a way to make a chocolate flourless cake sweetened with stevia. Stay tuned!
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