tea troubles

[Rising Phoenix]

I am looking at equipment for my new elixirs. Blender, juicer, grinder, french press......I got


I need a tea pot and strainer, a tea ball or spoon infuser......what is the difference between the strainer and infuser......any recommendations on what I should get. I am trying not to spend a fortune but want something easy to use.

[Kali]

1. you can make tea in a sauce pan

you don't need to spend anything

[Rising Phoenix]

2. well yes, I know you can

I am looking into making juices, smoothies, I will use fresh herbs and ground nuts and such.......the equipment she recommends is to make the process of making the drinks easier so one will be more likely to make it a part of their everyday life and well being.


I have plenty of teas.....sleepy time, detox, morning thunder, green, earl grey........

I am looking into making my own tea

[MajorChode]

3. It's not a good idea to use a ball or spoon infuser

When the tea leaves are infused with water, they will bloom. It's best to have room for them to do so and you'll get the best extraction. Most of the spoon or ball type infusers just aren't big enough.

A french press will do a good job of making tea, but I prefer heavy teapots that retain heat better like thick ceramic or cast iron. If you go with a teapot with a built-in infuser, try to find one with a good sized steel mesh infuser as they are a bit easier to clean out.

[Rising Phoenix]

4. thanks

I saw a nice heavy ceramic one on amazon with a built in infuser that was a really good size......


the french press will actually be for me to grind herbs and nuts and seeds into fine powders.

[MajorChode]

6. I like the Chantal brand

Most of them are relatively utilitarian, but they are well made and do a great job and they are inexpensive. I don't have this particular one, but it looks like a good one and it's along the lines of what I was referring:

http://www.chantal.com/pure-by-chantal-jasmine-tea-pot-w-stainless-lid-mesh-infuser.html

[Rising Phoenix]

7. thanks for the link

[Xipe Totec]

5. To steep, or not to steep

To steep, or not to steep: that is the question:
Whether 'tis better to infuse or strain
These Chinese leaves that cost a fortune,
Or to abandon this tea of troubles,
And with a latte end them?