Tea Time!!!!

I have been one to enjoy a cup of hot tea for as far back as I can remember. And while I was in Ireland this past summer, I was in tea heaven as "tea time" is a strong irish tradition. In fact, Ireland is the largest tea consumer per capita in the world.

The history of irish tea is that it was 1st imported to Ireland in 1835 where it became popular with the wealthy. Later in the mid 1800's tea spread to the rural people and all of Ireland was hooked. Irish tea is generally served 3 times per day: 11am for morning tea, 3-5pm for afternoon tea and high tea @ 6pm. In addition, the irish like their tea strong and it's common for a bit of milk to be added to the tea as well.

Here in the states where I live, I consume large amount of irish tea (usually Lyons or Barry's and YES I prefer to add milk to mine). In addition, I also slurp down green tea and/or pomegranate tea. Both of which are also tasty & a good source of antioxidants. I can often be found sipping tea alone or gathered with my irish friend(s) swapping stories, laughs or simply enjoying the company of good friends/family.

The Bottom Line about Irish Tea is that "Tea Time" makes everything better!!!