Coffee, Tea? Coffee, Tea?

Most everyone prefers one or the other: coffee or tea.
Some like both.  I usually start my day with a cup of tea, then follow it with a cup of coffee.
No matter your preference, there is a worldwide affinity for both.  

One of my main craves from India is a good cup of tea.  There is nothing as soothing as sipping my first cup of good tea once we arrive in India.  Whether it's at my in-laws or from a good roadside stand makes no difference.  That first good sip is like liquid gold for my soul.

Likewise, when we go to South India, I cannot wait to delight my tastebuds with a good cup of coffee.  If you are a coffee lover and have never had the pleasure of imbibing in a South Indian Cardamom coffee, this could change your life. Rich bold coffee, condensed milk, and spices come together to create an almost-euphoric burst of flavor in your mouth.

I've concocted my own version of this treat, so you can make it for yourself at home.  Warning: this will quickly become your new favorite hot beverage.

Here's what you'll need:
Orange Zest
Freshly Sliced Ginger
Cardamom Extract 
Coffee
Condensed Milk
Spices (I like to use this Pie Spice from Penzey's, but cinnamon will do).

Here's what to do:
Squeeze the orange zest and the ginger and drop them in the bottom of your coffee carafe.  
Drop 3 drops of the Cardamom Extract into the carafe.
Measure out a double-strength amount of coffee.
Add some Pie Spice to the top of the ground coffee.
Brew a pot and Pour into mugs.
Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of Condensed Milk, depending on how sweet you like it.
Smile from ear to ear while saying, "mmmmmm," and enjoy.

Believe it or not, some of our bone beads and pendants are actually stained using tea.  The tannins in tea can penetrate bone beads, and stain them a beautiful aged ivory color.  

These white cotton tassels are also great for tea-staining.  It you don't like the bright white, tea-staining will give them a beautiful aged look. 

Interested in learning more about tea-staining?  This article from Country Living has lots of tips and how-to's.

What's your favorite coffee or tea beverage or project?  Do share in the comments below.

Until next time~
Carter