Although the slight rise in temperature signals the approach of spring, the mornings and evenings are still chilly. At times like these, you'll want to slowly brew a delicious cup of tea to warm your body and soul. Here, we introduce tea leaves perfect for this time of year, recommended by "Pla d'Epicerie" on the first basement floor of the Isetan Shinjuku Main Building.
The store offers a lineup of approximately 150 types of tea, centered around its original tea brand, "Navarasa." Our first recommendation is Navarasa's "Domestic Ginger Tea" (45 grams/3g x 15 bags, 2,000 yen), which has the effect of warming the body. This original tea is a luxurious blend of fragrant, flavorful black tea from Oita Prefecture with domestic ginger, mint, and lemongrass. The refreshing aroma of ginger and lemongrass wafts through the air when brewed, leaving you feeling refreshed.
Also recommended is Navarasa's "Masala Chai" (75 grams, 1,275 yen). This chai, a blend of basic garam masala and rich Assam tea, is the most popular flavor, featuring a blend of cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Its fragrant spices make it perfect for after-meal sipping.
Chai, a milk tea simmered in a pot, is an essential daily drink in India. It's sold at street stalls in earthenware vessels called khuri. Adding sugar for a richer flavor is recommended for when you're hungry or want to warm up.
To make authentic chai, first boil one cup of water in a saucepan. Once boiling, turn off the heat and add about 8 grams of tea leaves (approximately 2-3 heaping teaspoons). Return to the heat and simmer for 30 seconds, then add one cup of milk and simmer further. The chai is ready when it changes color and thickens (recipe for two cups). If you like it sweeter, you can add granulated sugar at the end. In the summer, you can also chill it in the refrigerator and enjoy it as iced chai.
The store also offers a wide variety of unique aromatic teas that suit emotions, as well as black teas that are perfect for seasonal gifts. With the season bringing together many transfers and graduations, why not choose a delicious black tea as a thank-you gift?
