LYCHEE

ARTICLE'S FROM MOHAMAD ZAINI

2011-10-19T12:18:00.001-07:00

ARTICLE'S FROM MOHAMAD ZAINI

2011-10-19T12:18:00.000-07:00

Spring Into Salads With These Wine Pairings

2011-10-09T01:55:00.000-07:00

Springtime signals a time of change. As the outside temperatures warm up, we shift our meals from heartier fare to lighter cuisine and our wine choices follow suit.

Red wine selections move to lighter pinot noir, beaujolais and rose. White wines are popular in warmer weather, as they offer a cool, lighter and more refreshing beverage choice. Another shift is the role of salads which can move from a starter course to the main entree.

About dressings

As our tastes become more adventurous, salads now can contain a variety of exotic greens and ingredients, like toasted nuts, unusual cheeses, fresh fruits, lettuces and herbs that create more flavorful experiences. The following are general salad guidelines.

o Creamy style dressings pair well with light to medium-bodied dry white wines, such as pinot grigio, soave classico and chardonnay with good acidity, which help balance the richness of creamy dressings.

o Traditional, acidic vinaigrettes overpower the acidity level of many wines, creating a less favorable pairing. The acidity of a homemade vinaigrette can be reduced by using a milder vinegar such as an Asian rice wine vinegar or a slightly sweet balsamic vinegar. Also, increasing the amount of oil in the dressing will reduce the acidity.

o Adding fruit puree (raspberry puree as an example) or fruit juice to a homemade vinaigrette in place of up to half of the vinegar helps soften and balance the flavors. Here are some classic combinations: raspberry, cherry - pinot noir; citrus - sauvignon blanc; apple, pear - riesling.

If you are using a bottled vinaigrette (not a creamy dressing), you can add a splash of the wine you'll be drinking directly into the vinaigrette, to help connect the flavors.

Food, wine pairings

Here are some of my favorite main course summer salads:

o Cold pasta salad with grilled salmon, chopped sweet onion and fresh green peas mixed with a creamy dill dressing. Rieslings complement the flavors of both salmon and dill and its slightly sweet acidity provides a perfect balance with this dressing.

o Grilled chicken caesar salad pairs well with an acidic style of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio as they can stand up to the bold flavors of garlic and anchovies.

o Caprese salad, a combination of sliced, fresh mozzarella and tomatoes, is a perfect way to enjoy our homegrown or farm stand-fresh tomatoes. The somewhat bland mozzarella helps offset the high acidity of the tomatoes, allowing for a balanced white, like pinot gris, to pair well. When basil leaves or pesto are added to this salad, a crisp sauvignon blanc is a nice choice, as its herbaceous nature pairs well with basil.

o Asian chicken salad is popular and offers distinctive flavors of rice wine vinegar and sesame oil (add red pepper flakes to turn up the heat). Kabinett riesling's crisp acidity and sweetness balance these Asian flavors and helps counter the spicy characteristics. Also, an Alsatian gewürztraminer is another good choice, with its spicy, sweet and lychee nut notes.

Asian Sesame Dressing

Here's a dressing recipe that is easily made at home. This flavorful dressing created by My Chef Catering can be used on greens, cabbage or as a marinade for chicken or firm fish such as tuna.

4 cloves minced garlic
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
½ cup olive oil
1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
1/3 cup rice vinegar (not sweet or seasoned)
1/4 cup soy sauce (can use low sodium if you prefer)
4 tablespoons honey
¼ cup water

Place all ingredients in a one quart glass jar (or at least 1 pint size). Cover the jar with a tight fitting lid and shake well until all ingredients are mixed. Remove the lid and place the jar in the microwave. Heat for one minute just to ensure the honey is dissolved. Place jar in refrigerator with lid off until completely cool. Place lid tightly on jar and shake well before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator.

Serves 18.

Bill's Picks

Tiefenbrunner Pinot Grigio - Italy: $14

Chateau Ste. Michele Indian Wells Chardonnay - Washington: $15

Kesseler Kabinett Riesling - Germany: $16

Sterling Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc - Napa Valley, Calif.: $14

Trimbach Gewürztraminer - Alsace, France: $18

Allegrini Soave - Italy: $14

May 14, 2008 - as published in the Beacon News and Naperville Sun

Bill Garlough is a Level 1 Master Sommelier and an owner of My Chef Catering in Naperville, the winner of the U.S. Chamber's 2007 Small Business of the Year award. For more from Bill's Perfect pairings check out My Chef Bill can be reached at wineparings@mychef.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Garlough

Acai Berry - Health And Wealth Put In A Bottle!

2011-10-09T01:54:00.000-07:00

Deep in the Amazon, a word that stand for greatness and strength over 1.2 billion acres the equivalent of 2.5 million square miles of rain forest, where there is no time, no technology, and no limit to the mysteries that can be unlocked. An ecosystem protecting the earth's greatest biological treasures where more than half of the world's ten million species, animal, and insects live and hide; Here nature is at its most powerful and its most generous.

Rain forests have evolved over millions of years to turn into the incredibly complex environments they are today. The Amazon contains the largest collection of living plant and animal species in the world. A finite store of living and breathing renewable natural resources, that for eons have contributed a wealth of resources for the survival and well being of human kind.

Evergreen as far as the eyes can see, at least three thousand edible fruits are hidden here, of these over two thousand are used by the natives. And only 200 of them are used in the Western World. The natural healing properties of these treasures are in the Amazon have not gone e unnoticed by the scientific world. The U.S. National Cancer Institute has reported that 70% of the three thousand plants that are known to be active against cancer cells and are found in the rain forest.

Today 25% of Western pharmaceuticals come from rain forest ingredients, but less than 1% of these tropical tree and plants have ever been tested by scientists. The Amazon much like the depths of the vast ocean floors, is still largely undiscovered and uncharted. But what if the Amazon's grasp has loosened just enough to allow one of its most preciously guarded pearls to be unwrapped.

What if that pearl in the form of a small dark violet berry, possessed scientific properties no other fruit could claim, like the protein profile of an egg, and a phyto-chemical content greater than red grapes, Would it not be treasure worthy of the Amazon but must not be kept a secret?

The Acai Berry; Strength, energy, and richness just like the rain forest it comes from. A deep dense color that reflects no light harvested for centuries from the 25ft Acai palm where they dangle from branches in clusters. Only recently discovered by the Brazilian elite and North Americans, the Acai berry is making headlines.

Vogue Magazines calls it, "the next big workout cocktail"

The Washington Post writes, "The Acai has a beguiling berry-like flavor with intense chocolate overtones."

The London Times says, "Acai is the fruit of the Amazonian palm tree with the nutrition content that makes other fruits blush with inadequacy."

The Acai berry may be the most potent of all forgotten fruits, those raw whole fruits that are little known or consumed. But even though the perfect Acai berry could stand alone as a daily supplement; what if other forgotten fruits were combined with the power of the Acai to create perhaps the most effective phytonutrient available today, does the perfect fruit blend exist with the potent Acai as its crown jewel?

Mona Vie

Stemming from the word (Vie) meaning life is based on the native nick name for the Acai palm. They call it, "The tree of Life."

Dr Ralph Carson, Chief Science Officer of Monarch Health Sciences, who holds a degree in pathology from the Duke University school of medicine, and a Ph.D in Nutrition from Auburn University, led the team of experts in their formulation of Mona vie.

Dr. Carson's aim was to find the perfect variety of fruit rich in pigments, no matter how rare or expensive the fruit. Mona Vie and its promise could not be compromised.

With the Acai berry as the headline ingredient, Dr. Carson's team identified the all-star fruits that were uncommonly rich with nature's benefits.

Pomegranate, bilberry, passion fruit, wolfberry, blueberry, cranberry, prune, kiwi, pear, banana, apricot, Aronia, nashi, Acerola, purple grape, white pigment grape, Lychee fruit, and Camu.

All unique and exotic fruits are added to create the right balance of health building Phytonutrients contained in the entire color spectrum. This addition of variety adds to, compliments, and synergistically enhances the product's potential. This polished product represents the best of nature's gift from the four corners of the earth.

Dr. Carson and his team was not finished, they wanted to develop an even more potent product that would target the normal wear and tear of the body. Even with the full impact of the all the nutrients available in fruits, the body needs addition assistance as we age.

That's when Mona Vie Active was introduced; with the addition of two all natural substances that reinforce the original fruit blend, by controlling and repairing the damage our bodies experience. In many ways most fruits of the world have been forgotten, not only are they not available but studies show that few individuals are consuming the recommended 3 servings of fruit daily.

No need to wonder why in today's highly advanced society, that disease and poor health are wide spread more than ever.

Mona Vie represents the Monarch Health Science's commitment to providing cutting edge leadership to finding solutions for you r overall health and vitality.

My name is Jerome Wallace, I believe in health and wealth. My conviction is that you cannot pay for health.

Don't just take my word for it, click here [http://www.prosperity-and-you.com/mona-vie-testimony.html] to see for yourself what Acai Berry and Mona Vie are doing for others.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerome_Wallace

Wondering About Acai? Here is the Monavie Difference

2011-10-09T01:52:00.001-07:00

You may have heard all the hype on Rachel Ray or Oprah about the super fruit the Acai Berry. The benefits of this little fruit are astounding; the acai which has been shown to give greater energy, improve digestion and mental focus, encourage better sleep, provide essential fatty acids to lower cholesterol improve blood flow and cardiovascular health and boost the immune system among other benefits. It is not surprising then that all sorts of companies want to "cash in" on the acai name. But only one company stands out in quality, balance and community.

What is so special about this berry? It grows only in the northern Brazilian state of Para, primarily around one city, Belem, high atop towering Acai Palm trees deep within the jungles of the Amazon rain forest and has been a staple for the local people for hundreds of years. The deep purple berry is packed with antioxidants, phytonutrients, healthy fats, fiber, complex carbohydrates, simple sugars, amino acids, vitamins and trace minerals and is the most complete source of nutrition over any other fruit or vegetable.

The process of extracting the nutrients from this fruit is where companies differ. The acai is a delicate fruit that must be gently processed within 12 to 24 hours of harvest. Some companies wait more than 24 hours simply beacuse they have no processing plant nearby, but many vital nutrients are already decaying. Because MonaVie processes the berries in a state of the art factory near the acai palm they have kept the high nutritional value of the berry intact. The Monavie process starts with immediately freezing the fruit, then at a very low heat the moisture is removed leaving behind the concentrated freeze-dried acai powder, which on a gram for gram basis has an ORAC value of 1,027, the highest of any fruit or vegetable tested. The ORAC assay, which stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, is the way to measure the antioxidant activity of any substance in nature. In other words it shows how healthy a food is to eat.

By understanding how to harvest, process and ship to the United States, MonaVie has become one of the largest consumers of the berry outside Brazil. The benefits of the acai berry used in MonaVie is delivered through both the puree and freeze-dried acai powder, the most potent and concentrated form. 18 other nutrient-dense fruits blend perfectly with the acai and a super drink is born; only 2 ounces in the morning and 2 ounces at night are needed.

In addition to having the highest quality of fruit for its products, MonaVie also gives back to the people of Brazil and is proud to stimulate the local economy and help protect more than 1,000 acres so far of the rain forest. Also the co-founder and executive vice president of Monavie founded and is executive director of the M.O.R.E. Project. This charity representing, "Monavie's Operation Rescue," focuses primarily of on three goals: providing a safe home for homeless Brazilian children, teaching young men social and ethical values and educating young single mothers and their children. In doing this Monavie helps to ensure the futures of both the local people and the acai berry.

Monavie is an outstanding product that uses the purest form of the acai berry along with these other known and exotic fruits: apricot, aronia, acerola, purple grape, passion fruit, camu camu, banana, lychee fruit, apple, kiwi, pomegranate, prune, wolfberry, pear, bilberry, cranberry, blueberry and white grape. With all the stress, pollution and processed foods in today's world, our bodies are fighting an uphill battle. One way to help to is provide rich antioxidant support by the foods we consume. I have found that MonaVie is the best way to do this. Find out more at [http://www.acai-berry-blend.com]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Geysbeek

5 Secrets To Lose Stomach Fat Faster

2011-10-09T01:51:00.001-07:00

The 5 secrets to help you lose stomach fat once and for all. Plus the best: you won't need to starve yourself or make great sacrifices.

Do you want to learn an effective way to lose stomach fat and weight in general without following menus or difficult to count calories? Then all you have to do is follow some simple tips and losing belly fat and weight will be something very easy and natural.

After much research, the American nutritionist Susan Roberts realized that to control greed you just need to take five actions. Following her principles a group of volunteers managed to lose between 10 and 45 pounds without exercising.

Best of all: most of them did not put on weight again one year later. This successful method is in the book The Instinct Diet. For Susan, the big mistake is to try fighting the natural instinct to eat when you are hungry. Here you will find the following foolproof tricks to overcome greed, lose stomach fat and weight in general in a healthy way and ending the yo-yo effect. Start by following these tips today.

1. Choose foods that satiate more

Give preference to fiber and protein. These types of food satiate you which leads to pleasant feelings for longer. The best sources of protein are milk, fruits, cereals, yogurt, lean meats and green vegetables.

Supplement the diet with so-called good fats. They can be of vegetable origin - walnuts, peanuts, nuts, olive oil, canola oil or sunflower - or animal: especially tuna, salmon and sardines.

Choose wholemeal breads and pasta.

2. Do not take junk home

Keep yourself far way from candy, cookies, soft drinks and sausages. Keeping the kitchen cabinets full of junk food is the worst thing for those on a diet. In a moment of weakness, you will end up falling into temptation. These foods tend to be very attractive and loaded in flavor. This stimulates the brain and stomach to always ask for more. Therefore, escape them if you are serious about lose stomach fat!

3. Keep the food lean

Swap products for less calorie versions.

Replace deserts by fresh fruit salad and gelatin. Use the oven more than the frying pan. Thus, you avoid extra calories.

Replace full fat milk for skimmed, and chocolate for dried fruit.

Eat salad or vegetable soup before the main course (the vegetables cooked in the steam, keeping the nutrients).

Dilute orange juice with water.

The cheese fat is just enough so prepare sandwiches without margarine or mayonnaise.

4. Fight food boredom

To avoid getting bored of the food you are eating vary the menu at every meal. Diversification does not mean eating fattening foods! Search for new low calorie options, like a different fruit or cereal you have the habit of eating.

- Sprinkle quinoa or flaxseed on desserts or blend it in a smoothie.

- Prunes, lychee and apricot make a fabulous snack between meals.

- Always browse carefully in healthy shops, grocery stores and supermarkets to find other healthy foods with different tastes.

5. Reprogram your body now

Your brain just needs two weeks to get used to healthier foods. If you love fattening foods, it is because your brain is conditioned to wish for them every time you feel like eating.

For two weeks, train yourself to lose stomach fat and change your focus: whenever you feel hungry, eat something healthy. Soon, this choice will be easy and almost automatic.

Don't forget to drink two liters of water per day, plus teas, especially camomile, which is naturally calming and reduces hunger caused by anxiety.

Carmen Beese is a leading fat loss researcher dedicated to providing valuable information about this subject.
Discover all the secrets and important information on how to lose stomach fat and get a free guide on belly types and exactly what to do to eliminate it by visiting http://losestomachfatexpert.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carmen_Beese

Different Types of Nuts

2011-10-09T01:50:00.001-07:00

A Nut can be defined as a very hard shelled type of fruit of certain plants that comes with a specific type of seed called indehiscent. All the while, there is a wide selection of dried fruits and seeds that are also called nuts. This is a fairly comprehensive lit of various types of nuts.

1. Almond: A highly prized nut that is encased in a hard, greenish hull.
2. Beech nut: These are small edible nuts encased in burs
3. Butternut: A nut that is egg-shaped and is a part of the widespread walnut family
4. Brazil nut: A three-sided American nut that has white oily feeling meat with a hard shell.
5. Candle nut: This has an extremely hard shell typically sold without the shell.
6. Cashew: This kidney-shaped nut grows outside the cashew apple. It's shell is toxic.
7. Chestnut: One of the most versatile of all nuts as to how you can prepare it.
8. Chinese chestnut: These are sweet, small nuts native to the far east
9. Malabar Chestnut: Native to the southern hemisphere, they grow in the swamps of South America.
10. Sweet chestnut: Originally native to the near east
11. Colocynth: This is a poisonous, non-edible nut.
12. Clurbita ficifolia: is the seed of a certain kind of squash
13. Filbert: is a variety of the hazel nut
14. Gevuina avellana: An edible nut that is adaptable to cooler climates.
15. Hazelnut: It's also known simply as the cob nut.
16. Hickory nut: A hard-shelled, nut used in baking.
17. Pecan: Native to the North American southern states.
18. Shagbark Hickory: Are moderately sized, thin shelled nuts.
19. Kola Nut: High in caffeine with many medicinal purposes.
20. Macadamia: Also known simply as the bush nut.
21. Mamoncillo nut: Is the seed of the Spanish lime.
22. Maya nut: Is kin to the Mulberry and the Fig
23. Mongongo: These are edible but not recommended as they come from Elephant dung!
24. Oak acorns: Also known as the oak nut.
25. ogbono nut: A nut rich in protein that is sun dried
26. Paradise nut: Is the seeding of the rich sapucaia.
27. Pili nut: Native to the pacific Islands and the Philippines.
28. Pistachio: Have an open shell, that allows for them them to be salted and roasted whole.
29. Walnut: A seed that is two-lobed with a very hard shell.
30. Coconut: One of the most harvested and used nuts in the world
31. Horse-chestnut (or buckeye): This is an inedible seed/nut
32. Lychee: A dried Chinese fruit
33. Pine nut: Nuts from the inside of pine cones. Very high in fat.
34. Cacao: Considered to be a culinary type nut.
35. Soy nut: Are made out of whole soybeans.
36. Sunflower: There is a nut inside seeds of the sunflower that is harvested.
37. Acorn: This comes from oak trees, thus making them very abundant.
38. Peanut: Also native to the southern states of North America.
39. Illipe: A nut that is similar to some types of cocoa butter.
40. Pandanus: Are cone shaped, edible fruits.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Becki_Andrus

The Basic Wine Essentials

2011-10-09T01:49:00.001-07:00

Whether you are serving it to your guests while entertaining, using it to create luscious dishes, or simply enjoying its' company, whatever the occasion, this libation reigns the kingdom of fine indulgence and has been doing so for centuries. The conception of wine has been dated as far back as 8000-4000BC in Mesopotamia. Having thousands of years to further perfect the wine making process, this sexy beverage is a palate pleaser like no other providing a continuous adventure for pleasure seekers in this arena where no bottle is quite like the other. Each and every wine has its' tale to tell, so indulge and listen carefully, for this libation is quite capable of taking you to places you have most likely never been before!

Wine is an enormous subject that is constantly evolving which can often lead to intimidation. Where do you begin? The important thing is that you do! The enormity of wine is not justification for not trying any, but it is reason to be shy about it. So let's get down to the basics and get you on your way to a life happily filled with wine!

Creation

Wine is created through the fermentation process of crushed grapes. Grapes are pressed to release their juices which are combined with yeast to initiate the fermentation process. This process converts sugar into alcohol and concludes once the alcohol reaches such a level as to kill the remaining yeast. This yeast is naturally occurring in the skin of grapes but is rarely used in today's wine making process as isolated yeast strains now exist that can not only act as a fermentation catalyst but contribute a unique style to the wine as well.

What's in a name?

Every wine is derived from either a single grape or from several. These grapes are also referred to as "varietals". Each varietal has a unique name which in turn represents certain characteristics. A wine characteristic refers to anything that reflects a resemblance to a scent, taste, or flavor and also includes mouth feel such as the weight of the wine when on the palate. Let's use the chardonnay grape as an example. Chardonnay classically presents characteristics of citrus, pear, and pineapple to fig, honey, vanilla and butter. This wine can also be characterized as being full and rich, or simple and crisp. This variance in characteristics is what makes wine so mind-blowing and mind-boggling!

There are several factors that contribute to the final result of a wine. Geographic location of where the vines are planted, the weather of that region, the vines themselves, soil conditions and of course the actual wine making process. With all of these factors considered it is understandable why someone who may enjoy one chardonnay, may not enjoy the next. All the more reason to not give up and keep on trying!!

All varietals exude certain characteristics which can aid in determining one wine from another. This differentiation also contributes to your own approval and disapproval of certain wines. Some are light bodied and fruity, others are full bodied and earthy, whatever your style, there is bound to be a grape varietal that will satisfy.

Our chart below is an excellent tool to use when purchasing and/or tasting wine. The left column represents several popular wine varietals while the right column displays typical characteristics of that particular varietal.

White Varietals and Characteristics

Riesling - Light; Sweet/dry. Tangy, fruity. Citrus, apple, pear, melon, nectarine, peach, apricot.

Gewurztraminer - Light; Sweet, dry. Grapefruit, lychee, apple, nectarine, nutmeg, clove, ginger, spice, floral.

Semillon - Med-Full; Often rich. Lemon, lime, honey, butter.

Chenin Blanc - Light; Off dry. Peach, pear, quince, melon, herbal tea, mineral.

Viognier - Light-med; Floral, honey, apricots, pear.

Sauvignon Blanc - Light-Med; Citrus, gooseberry, lemon, melon, herbal, bell pepper, grassy.

Pinot Blanc - Light-Med; Dry, crisp. Citrus, apple, pear, melon, sweet pea.

Pinot Gris/Grigio - Light; Fruitier and soft. Citrus, apple, pear, peach, melon, honey, vanilla.

Grigio - Crisper, more citrusy.

Chardonnay - Med-full; Dry, rich. Citrus, apple, tropical fruit, fig, honey, hazelnut, butterscotch, butter, popcorn.

Red Varietals and Characteristics

Gamay - Light; Tangy, fruity, cranberry.

Pinot Noir - Light-Med; Cherry, strawberry, clove, mint, truffle, cloves, smoke, sage.

Sangiovese - Med; Sweet and sour, dark cherry, tobacco, earthy, almond, herbs, tea.

Barbera - Med-Full; Ripe red fruit, currant, cherry, herbal.

Cabernet Franc - Med; Dry, berry, fruity, herbal, smoky.

Grenache - Med; Black fruit, anise, smoky, herbal.

Cabernet Sauvignon - Med-Full; Cherry, plum, currant, pepper, bell pepper, cedar, vanilla, mint, chocolate, tea, tobacco.

Shiraz/Syrah - Full; Raspberry, spice, black pepper, blackberry, plum, tar.

Zinfandel - Full; Juicy, robust, jammy, berry flavors, spices.

Red vs. White

So what's the deal with color? We all know wine to be red, white, and rose, or blush as some call it, but the juice is really all the same! Have you ever looked at the flesh of a red grape before? It is the same as a green grape, therefore if wine exists in a variety of hues then the color must come from....of course, the skin! Often white wine is made from red grapes, in fact, most great champagne would not exist without, so don't be fooled, pink grapes do not exist! Yes, red and white grapes appear the same in juice form but when their skin is added to the wine making picture a whole other story begins!

The many gorgeous hues of red evident in red wine is a result of allowing red grapes to ferment with their skins, however color is not the only thing affected by the skin of a grape. I am sure you have tasted a wine, a red wine in particular that makes your mouth pucker; an astringent sensation on the palate if you will. What you experienced is known as "tannin".

Tannin is a natural substance found in the skins, stems, and seeds of grapes. You can experience this sensation in young whites however it is more commonly found in red wines. Allowing the juice to ferment with skins will in turn generate a higher level of tannin to exist in the resulting wine. It is no secret that many people have a preference for either white or red wine. A very tannic wine is often a reason for dislike especially if you are new to wine. There are several varieties associated with being quite tannic, Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, Syrah, Petite Syrah, Zinfandel, are to name a few however in the game of wine you will not know until you try!

Every wine will possess its own unique color. A wine's color can reveal its story, and to experienced blind tasters, provide necessary clues in pinpointing a correct assumption. Each grape variety generally exudes a certain range of hues however age and wood barrel aging will also have an affect on color. So evidently there is much more to color than just red and white!

Wine is an endless educational journey even for those most experienced in this subject so it is vital to explore and try new and exciting wines as often as your time allows!

So get out there, get tasting, and have fun!

Jennie Wills has been a hospitality expert for 10 years whose passion for home renovation, food and drink has lead to the successful launch of http://www.thesexykitchen.com ; a web-site dedicated to kitchen design, renovation, party planning, hospitality and much more. Perhaps you have a passion or hobby you’d like to write about. Discover how to turn your passion into a successful website, visit [http://www.succeed-from-your-passion.com] to learn how.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennie_Wills

Hotels in Sathon - Bangkok Hotels in Embassy Row

2011-10-09T01:48:00.001-07:00

Hotels in Sathon are Bangkok hotels in a location of prime residential and commercial properties consisting of 5 star hotels, serviced apartments, embassies, posh apartments, schools, churches and private hospitals. Of the few canals left in Bangkok, two of them are in Sathon, an area with a long and rich history.

A major road linking Thonburi on the west bank of the Chao Phraya to the city center, Sathon Road actually consists of two roads; North Sathon and South Sathon separated by a narrow canal that's hardly noticeable in the heavy traffic. Our story begins with this canal.

Back in 1892, 24 years into the reign of King Rama V, Chao Sua Yom a wealthy Chinese immigrant was commissioned to dig a canal linking the Chao Phraya River near Wat Yannawa to Hua Lam Pong canal. The earth from the excavation was used to build a road running along each bank of the new canal. Locals called this canal Chao Sua Yom Canal and the road Phor Yom Road.

For his enterprise, Chao Sua Yom was granted to the rights to the land north and south of the canal. In recognition of his services, Chao Sua Yom was awarded the royal title Luang Sathon Rachayuk and the names of the road and canal were subsequently changed to Sathon, in his honor.

The land in Sathon was parceled off into smaller lots and sold to rich merchants, both foreign and Thai, who built European styled mansions. Immigrants flocked to the less fashionable areas to cultivate orchards and plantations.

In the following century however, Sathon went through a complete transformation. The mushrooming of hotels, condominiums, serviced apartments, banks and offices turned Sathon into a prime district in Bangkok. The main Sathon Road hosts some of Bangkok's best; Banyan Tree, Metropolitan Hotel and Sukhothai Hotel, the pride of the hotels in Sathon.

The embassies caught the trend as well. Twenty countries have established their embassies in Sathon Road; Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, Myanmar, New Zealand, Oman, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovak, Taiwan, the Vatican and the United Arab Emirates.

Many of the sois off Sathon Road, where some of the hotels in Sathon are located, have their stories too.

Would guests at Somerset Park Suan Plu, a serviced apartment is in Soi Suan Plu, have imagined that the area used to be betel plantations and orchards cultivated by Chinese immigrants at the turn of the 20th century. Some of their descendants still live here in the shop houses that line the street. You can occasionally hear the strains of Teochew, a southern Chinese dialect, among the older residents.

Few visitors would have realized the significance of the road names; Soi Suan Plu (betel plantation) and the connecting Nang Linchi Road (Mrs Lychee).

In the seemingly endless sub-branching of sois, Soi Phra Pinit off Suan Plu is the site of M.R. Kukrit Pramoj's House, a set of traditional Thai houses. Designated a national heritage, the house was the former home of the 13th Prime Minister of Thailand in the mid 1970s. It's open to visitors on weekends and public holidays. The Yellow Ribbon Hills Executive Mansion, a comfortable hotel/apartment popular with the Japanese, is in this quiet residential lane.

Soi Saladaeng, off North Sathon Road, was part of a large tract of royal land that extended all the way to Lumphini Park and Siam Square. The area got its name from Sala Daeng, the red roofed railway station of the old Paknam line ran by a Danish company linking the city with the port at the mouth of the Chao Phraya.

Saladaeng, is now an up market area popular with cafes, restaurants, condominiums and serviced apartments. The Jim Thompson Saladaeng Café is here. So are three of the hotels in Sathon; Centre Point Saladaeng, Chin House Luxurious Residence and Siri Sathorn Hotel.

At the junction of Convent Road and North Sathon Road, there's an old Anglican church, Christ Church, built in 1906 by the English residents in Bangkok from a land grant by King Rama V. Unico Grande Sathorn Boutique Service Residence in Soi Pipat off Convent Road is not far away from the walled convent of the Carmelite order of nuns who gave Convent Road its name.

Every hotel tries to establish a distinct signature. In the case of the Evergreen Laurel Hotel, at the junction of North Sathon and Soi 6, its Chinese restaurant serves one of the best Hong Kong tim sum in Bangkok.

The other canal in the area is the Chong Nonsi which runs in a north south direction perpendicular to the Sathon canal. When a road was built along the Chong Nonsi, its name was commonplace, Liap Khlong Chong Nonsi, literally the road skirting the Chong Nonsi canal.

In 1996, the prestige of this road was enhanced when it was renamed Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, (na-ra-thi-wat ra-ja-na-ga-rin), after Kromma Luang Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra, the royal title of HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana, the elder sister of HM the King.

To help non-Thais avoid tripping over their tongues, the name of this road is sometimes spelt as Narathiwat Rajanakarin. Oakwood City Residence, a member of the international apartment chain, is located further down Naradhiwas Road.

Overhead, the skytrain from Silom Road turns into Naradhiwas, stops at the Chong Nonsi station before it turns right into Sathon Road, passing the Ascott Sathorn, another of the hotels in Sathon.

The St Louis Hospital nearby is a non-profit hospital named after King Louis IX of France, the only French king to achieve sainthood. When Bishop Louis Vey founded the hospital in 1898, he provided land for a church in future. His wish was fulfilled much later when the St Louis Church was built in 1957.

Coincidentally the priest responsible for the construction of the church was Bishop Louis Chorin. So it's no surprise that the soi nearby, though officially named Soi Sathon 13, is commonly known as Soi St Louis.

In 1982, the Taksin Bridge, named after King Taksin of Thonburi, spanning the Chao Phraya was completed, linking Sathon Road with Thonburi. Sathon Road was widened to take the extra traffic and Sathon canal reduced in width. Naradhiwas Road and the Chong Nonsi canal were similarly affected. Though considerably narrower, Sathon and Chong Nonsi are two of the remaining canals in Bangkok.

Few of the old mansions remain, their places taken by condominiums. The orchards and plantations are gone. The Hua Lam Pong canal was filled up to build Rama IV Road where Pinnacle Lumpinee Hotel, a budget hotel not far from the Lumphini subway station, keeps a respectful distance from her 5 star neighbors in the prime embassy row.

There's an old photo in the Bangrak Museum of what Sathon Road was like in the early 1900s. It's a scene of old Fords chugging down the road, boats being rowed in the canal and perhaps the occasional bullock cart.

Chao Sua Yom's decision to dig a canal south of Silom more than a century ago has paid off handsomely. He couldn't have foreseen then that the road he built would have some of the heaviest traffic in Bangkok a century later. Or that the area would be home to the hotels in Sathon, the crown jewels among Bangkok's premium hotels.

Hotels in Sathon is part of a series of articles on the historical significance of the locations of Bangkok Hotels. These articles can be found in Tour Bangkok Legacies a historical travel site on people, places and events that left their mark in the landscape of Bangkok.

The author Eric Lim, a free-lance writer, lives in Bangkok Thailand and writes for this do-it-yourself historical travel guide for independent travelers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Lim

The Best White Wines - Leaders of the Pack

2011-10-09T01:47:00.001-07:00

"White wine with white meat" is still the mantra of the wine world but your personal preference should dictate. White wines, yellow, golden or straw-like in color, are derived from an assortment of grape varietals of green, gold or yellowish-colored grapes, or from just the juice (not the skin) of select red grapes. White wines tend to be more refreshing and lighter in character and taste than red wine vintages, making them ideal selections for spring and summer occasions. White wines are often preferred with lighter meals such as lunch, smaller lighter dinners, and appetizers, or as aperitifs, with optimum serving temperatures at 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit.

White wines are best served in narrower glasses that allow for better aroma concentration of more delicate varietals. A variety of taste descriptors apply to white wine, such as citrus, apple, pear, grapefruit, lemon, lime, pineapple, melon, butter, honey, flora, herb, earthy, along with light oak vanilla, sweet wood coconut, as well as heavier oak, smoke, toast.

Chardonnay is the most prominent of the white wine varietals, unmistakable in the mouth because of its excellent sugar/acid balance, its full body, and its easy smoothness. Chardonnay's intrinsic blank canvas quality allows its flavors to be dramatically affected by soil, climate, vineyard practices, and winemaking techniques that produce wide variances in the Chardonnay flavor profile. The Chardonnay aroma is distinct, yet delicate, often smells like apricots, apples, lemons, peaches, or tropical fruits such as pineapple, banana, mango, guava, kiwi. Chardonnay is the major varietal used in quality sparkling wines and French Champagne. Chardonnay is the only grape permitted in the Chablis region of France. Chablis is described as flinty, mineral or "steely", versus the Meursault appellation (one of the relatively few Burgundy villages that produces almost entirely white wine) where Chardonnay is described as having a lush, ripe, "fleshy", "buttery" quality. California Chardonnay is every bit as variable with exciting taste quality it develops there. Chardonnay has also been a successful grape in Australia, sometimes misnamed there "pinot chardonnay". Chardonnay is most commonly paired with roast chicken and other white meats such as turkey. Heavily oak influenced Chardonnays do not pair well with more delicate fish; they pair better with smoked fish, spicy Southeast Asian cuisine, garlic and guacamole. More mellow Chardonnays pair with earthy dishes like mushroom soup and aged cheese.

Sauvignon Blanc, one of the first fine wines to be bottled with a screwcap in commercial quantities, is usually consumed young, not particularly benefiting from aging. It's quite distinctive, often sharp, aggressive smell is described as grass, bell-pepper, grapefruit, lime, or melon in nature. Blending Sauvignon Blanc with Semillon is a common practice to add richness and an extra element of figs to the aroma, softening the Sauvignon Blanc's naturally high acidity character. Sauvignon Blanc is always crisp, tangy, tart, and zesty in character. This character pervades in even sweet and dessert versions, preventing them from being cloying and sticky-tasting. Sauvignon Blanc is thus able to accompany the greatest variety of foods. It pairs well with sushi, fish, and fresh goat cheese.

Riesling, cultivated since the 1400s or earlier, is usually included in the top three white wine varieties together with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Riesling is distinctively floral and exhibits apple, pear, peach, apricot-like aromas that frequently mix in mineral elements reflecting the individuality of its terroir (a group of vineyards or even vines from the same region). Riesling is often consumed when young. Riesling may have aromas of green or other apples, grapefruit, peach, honey, rose blossom or cut green grass. Riesling possesses a high natural level of tartaric acid enabling it to balance high levels of residual sugar. Riesling makes dry, semi-sweet, sweet and sparkling white wines which pair well with white fish or pork. It is one of the few wines with taste that can stand up to Thai and Chinese cuisine.

Gewürztraminer is more pungent and full-bodied than most any other white wine with a heady, aromatic scent of roses, passion fruit, floral notes and exotic lychee-nut flavor with at times a heavy, oily texture and a slight tendency to bitterness that can be overwhelming and tiring to some. Gewürztraminer grapes produce wines colored from light to dark golden yellow with a copper tone, depending on the fruit's ripeness. Gewürztraminer can be made into an excellent dessert wine. Gewürztraminer pairs well with Asian cuisine, and enjoys good company with Munster cheese, smoked salmon and fleshy, fatty (oily) wild game.

Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio can be clear in color to a light gold and can be dry or attain a high level of sweetness and even age well. It is a medium bodied wine with fresh aromas and flavors suggestive of melon and apples, refreshed by cleansing acidity. It is a wine that is usually delicately fragrant and mildly floral along with hints of almond and smoke. Pair with pasta, chicken and fish.

Semillon is the majority white variety in Bordeaux regions of Graves, Entre de Mers and Sauternes, and makes up the majority of the blend in the most expensive and famous dessert wines in the world. Semillon wine can be produced both as a dry and a sweet. It is full of crisp citrus flavors with a touch of fresh herbs. It is full flavored, rich, aromatic, soft, subtle, and a rich counter balance to the Sauvignon Blanc, which can be aromatically aggressive and acidic. Semillon works well when blended with Chardonnay, providing weight and richness.

Viognier is full-bodied like an oaky Chardonnay, with a much more distinctive fruit character. Viognier possesses a rich and complex floral aroma that often conjures up reflections of overripe apricots mixed with orange blossoms, along with a distinctive and sweet aroma-flavor profile as Gewürztraminer. Viognier is usually made in a dry style and seems to appeal more to the typical Chardonnay drinker since both share tropical fruit flavors and a creamy mouth feel. Aromatic and fruit forward by nature of the grape, Viognier pairs well with spicy foods such as Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, and with shellfish, such as Dungeness crab.

Chenin Blanc provides a fairly neutral palate for the expression of terroir, with typically a floral, honeyed character, along with zesty acidity, as sensory trademarks of well-made Chenin Blanc. Considered the most versatile of all wine grape varieties, fragrant and lightly sweet and crisp, it can be used to make everything -- light sparkling wines, dry table wines, nectar-like dessert wines (where the grapes can be left on the vines to develop noble rot, producing an intense, viscous dessert wine that will improve considerably with age), and even brandy are all produced in various areas of the wine world.

We created http://www.YourLoveofWine.com because we passionately want to share with those with an interest the art, science, and physical and psychological aspects of the wine tasting experience. An experience without pretension which both the novice and seasoned wine lover can enjoy and appreciate. Some of the most exquisite wine experiences are made by passionate vintners creating wines with more styles and tastes than ever could be imagined and http://www.YourLoveofWine.com can take you on a wondrous journey, tracking down some truly exciting wines to bring to your door when you need them. Our mission is to deliver a greater online wine buying value than you will find anywhere through the combination of our outstanding customer service, depth of product offerings, value pricing and commitment to online wine buyers' satisfaction. Including the best of the elite red and white wines, gift baskets, wine racks, glassware, wine openers and charms.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stuart_Jay

Enjoy the Beauty of Dehradun

2011-10-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand state of India. It is a beautiful city located in the Northern India in the lap of Himalayas. It surrounded by Himalayan range on the North and Shivalik hills on the south. River Ganga and its tributary Yamuna flow through this city. Dehradun was the part of Uttar Pradesh before division of Uttarakhand as a separate state. The Basmati Rice of Dehradun is famous throughout the India along with its bakery products and production of Lychee. Location of Dehradun makes it a famous tourist destination of India.

Tourist Spots in Dehradun:

Forest Research Institute (FRI):

This place is best for nature loving people. This is a premium institute which is managed by Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education. It was made in 1906 and was first of its kind in India. Later it was converted into a Deemed University. FRI has a museum which is opens 7 days a week. This museum houses various tools, old timber and many other things related to Forest research. Some of these tools belong to 12th century.

Robber's Cave:

It is a river cave that was believed to be formed around three thousand years back. This cave is around 600 meters long and about 10 meters high. This cave has been declared as the monument of national importance by Uttaranchal Government.

Clement Town:

It is a military area in Dehradun and is located at altitude of 410 meters above sea level. This town has world's largest Tibetan Stupa which was established in 2002.

Transport Facilities in Dehradun:

The city is well connected by bus and train services. Air services have been recently started and a new airport is made which is located 25 km. from the city centre.

The public transport is provided by UP roadways and you can find local buses to all parts of the city. These buses are considered as the cheapest means of transport. Efforts are ongoing to change all buses into CNG buses to reduce pollution.

The city is well linked by Railway also. There are a plenty of trains which come here from various parts of the country on daily basis.

If you are also planning to enjoy the beauty of this city then you can book your trip at Cleartrip [http://www.cleartrips.info/]. You can book Cleartrip domestic flights [http://www.cleartrips.info/cleartrip-domestic-flights.html] to Dehradun online at cheap rates.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yatin_Kukreja

Perfumes - A Quick Guide to Chypre Fragrances

2011-10-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

Rich and extravagant Chypre perfumes are based on woody, flowery, mossy notes with blends of Sandalwood, Pine, Cedar, Patchouli, Vetiver and Pine. These perfumes have been created with nature in mind and originated in 1917 and named after the fragrance Chypre created by Coty.

When Chypre (Cyprus) was created by Coty in 1917 it had top notes of citrus and end notes of pungent oak moss mingling with a heart of rose & jasmine. With time, however, perfume houses have evolved chypre perfumes and created some exquisite fragrances which are now categorized under the mossy-wood range and widely available in the market.

Some better known and popular chypre fragrances are detailed below:

Coco Madmoiselle by chanel
Created as a tribute to the lady herself complementing her character of sensuality, humour and strength, Madmoiselle is enriched with top notes of orange and bergamot, with a heart of jasmine and rose which sink into a sensual note of vetiver and patchouli.

Aromatic Elixir by Clinique
With opening notes of chamomile, geranium, sage and verbena and a heart containing tuberose, ylang-ylang and jasmine, that finishes on a dry powdery note of patchouli, oak moss and vetiver, Elixir is just that, creating unbelievable sensations of seduction and sensuality.

Darling by Kylie Minogue
Like the singer herself, created for a woman of strength and charm, a heady and wonderful flowery fragrance containing top notes of freesia, passion fruit and lychee, a heart sprinkled with lily and boronia, topping off with sandalwood, vanilla and amberwood.

Be Delicious by DKNY
A very popular Chypres perfume projecting freedom, innocence and sensuality, this subtle Donna Karan perfume is a provocative combination of fruit and floral oils. Starting off with top notes of apple, magnolia and grapefruit, mingling with rose, violet, cucumber and tuberose luxuriating into sandalwood, white wood and amber, symbolizes the forbidden fruit of Eden.

Mitsouko by Guerlain
One of the great perfumes by Guerlain, Mitsouko is a refined Chypre perfume that has been blended with lush ripe peaches and spicy notes, a heart of mossy woods which starts off on a cool note but ends seductive and intense. A rich and elegant perfume with a wonderful balance of fragrances. Created in 1919, Hollywood Jean Harlow wore it as well as Charlie Chaplin. It featured as worn by Catherine Deneuve in the film, Belle de Jour.

Chypre perfumes are generally dry due to its wood moss mixes such as sandalwood and earth moss. These fragrances however are rich and long lasting and are ideal for someone who prefers an unusual fragrance.

For more designer fragrances reviews to help you choose your perfect Mitsouko perfume, take a look at the Fragrances for Women website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jayne_Fairclough

Celebrity Perfumes - 3 Top-Selling Perennial Favorites

2011-10-08T12:34:00.001-07:00

Do celebrities have more scents than sense? It may seem like it, when new celebrity perfumes are constantly released, and remain best sellers in the fragrance market even when the stars themselves fall afoul of the tabloid press.

While the celebrity may be involved in the process of creating a perfume bearing their name (such as picking out scents that they particularly like), the fact is that the fragrances themselves are created by top perfumers and are usually of a high quality.

Three of the best-selling celebrity perfumes are:

(1) Lovely, by Sarah Jessica Parker

This fragrance, released by Sarah Jessica Parker in 2005, is a feminine and chic fragrance, inspired by the practice of layering scents. The perfume is described as timeless and elegant, both innocent and exotic. It suits sophisticated women, and is wearable both day and night.

Lovely has notes of bergamot, lavender, apple martini, patchouli, paperwhites, creamy orchid, cedarwood, white amber, sultry woods and musk. This creates a perfume that is subtle and light yet long-lasting.

(2) With Love... Hilary Duff

This perfume is long-lasting, with a gorgeous scent that combines the freshness of youth with the sensuality of oriental spice. The key notes of the fragrance are mangosteen fruit, exotic spices, cocobolo wood, amber and musk.

Although this particular fragrance is designed for the teenage and young adult market, the perfume's spicy notes render it wearable by women of all ages.

(3) Fantasy, by Britney Spears

This fragrance, released in 2005, is described as "a magic love potion of sweet temptation that leaves a tantalising trail of embracing sensuality".

The perfume has notes of red lychee, golden quince, exotic kiwi, jasmine petals, cupcake accord, white chocolate orchid, creamy musk, orris root and sensual woods. As a result, it is a sweet perfume, and many wearers describe it as reminiscent of cotton candy.

Tara Elle writes about health and beauty, including celebrity perfumes at [http://celebrityperfume.blogspot.com]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tara_Elle

Acai Berry Flavors & Varieties For Diet, Weight Loss & Colon Cleanse - Oprah's Dynamic Duo

2011-10-08T12:33:00.003-07:00

Acai berry juice comes in many varieties and flavors that acai berry lovers will have a wide range of flavors to choose from. Just like in previous years when the popularity of the acai berry was mostly confined to the natives along the Amazon, there have also been several ways at which to get the benefit of acai berry. In Brazil, the fruit is mixed with different fruits to make the flavor more exciting and alter the taste for variety without altering the composition.

Made known to the world by Oprah with her Dynamic Due for diet, weight loss, & colon cleanse, the variety of the juice that is marketed today also comes in several flavors that are also fruit-based. There are several companies that are marketing acai juice whether online or through groceries and other retail outlets. More popular of these are those that are marketed by the Acai Power 500, Amazon Thunder, Monavie and the Bolthouse Farms.

Typically, it is best to drink the juice without preservatives and is 100% pure acai juice & products. However, the public's preference for taste differ and when people asks for variations, there are acai berry juices that are flavored with cacao, pomegranate, blueberry and mangosteen. Others comes out with delicious mixes like grapes, passion fruit, apricot, acerola, camu camu, pear, lychee, kiwi, prune, aronia, blueberry, cranberry, bilberry and the nashi pear. Acai juice could also come out deliciously in varieties & flavors such as mango, banana, strawberry etc. like those that are manufactured by other brands. As if these varieties in acai juice were not enough, the consumer can also come out with his or her own mixes. Acai berry that is sold in powdered form can be mixed with a lot of different fruit juices whenever this is the preferred preparation.

Provided that the powdered acai that was bought are processed right, the full benefit of the berry will not be diminished. The benefits that could be derived from drinking acai juice are not yet fully exhausted. The results that are reported in various researches are commonly good, varying though they may be to a degree. When choosing acai berry juice that is mixed with other flavors, it will be well for the consumer to find out the concentration level between the acai and the flavor that is mixed in the juice. It is best when pure. That told the caution is to buy more of the acai and less of the added fruits.

Now you want to have more energy, be Healthier, look Younger, lose weight, and cleanse your body, right?

Do this with Oprah's Dynamic Duo of Acai Berry & Colon Cleanse by Clicking Here Now!

Acai Berry is the #1 "Super Food" because it has so many different elements that help your body, so you can't go wrong with Acai Berries & Colon Cleansing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Faviano_Torres

Great Desserts For Any Table

2011-10-08T12:32:00.001-07:00

Despite all the options out there, many of us find that we fall back on the same old desserts week after week. While they taste great at first, you can quickly get sick of pies, ice cream, or cake. If you are looking for the next great dessert, but find yourself intimidated by some of the recipes out there, you are not alone. Sometimes it seems like food journals and magazines fall on either side of two extremes - difficult and time consuming or the same things we always make.

The good news is that there are a lot of interesting and tasty desserts out there, and they do not need to be hard to make. Some may require a few unusual ingredients or techniques, but once you make them once or twice; you will get the hang of it. Here are a few ideas for great desserts to mix things up a little at your house.

Dessert Pizza

We see them at restaurants, but it rarely occurs to us to make these pizza-shaped desserts at home. However, they can be quick, easy, and relatively inexpensive. Try making sugar cookie dough or brownie batter from scratch, or buy prepackaged versions for a quicker crust. Top sugar cookie crusts with fresh fruit in season (apples and brown sugar are a real winner), chocolate, nuts, and lots of other tasty choices. Just remember to cook crusts entirely or partially before topping to avoid sogginess.

Ethnic Desserts

American cuisine has gone on to include a lot more dishes from other cultures in recent years. Many households regularly include Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and even Indian, Thai, and Japanese food for dinner. If you serve a meal based in another culture, never forget to include the desserts. Cultures throughout Asia have variations on Sweet Mango Sticky rice, for instance. Indian fruit lassis are a delight, and gelato makes a nice change from ordinary ice cream.

If you or your family is a little concerned about strange foods, start by including some exotic ingredients in more ordinary dessert dishes. Lychee fruits, while strange looking, are a pleasant addition to the standard fruit salad, as are pineapple, mango, kiwi, and passionfruit.

Forgotten Favorites

Of course, you do not have to search far for new desserts. Some of them are old favorites that we just have not made in a while. Check out your older cookbooks for easy desserts your mother or grandmother used to make, and remember not to be afraid to experiment a little. Just be sure to do it when you have plenty of time - a deadline is never a good match for creativity in the kitchen. However, even desserts as humble as Jello, bread pudding, and cobbler can be a real treat without being difficult.

Looking for some quick, easy desserts that are sure to please? Jellorecipes.net has some great choices that go beyond the usual fruit salad gelatin mold. Check out the site and find the right dessert for your next meal.

Jello salads don't have to be boring our jello salad recipes are great tasting and easy to make too. You'll impress your family with a delicious dessert they will think took you hours to make, the truth will be our secret.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=KC_Kudra

Swarovski Gift Items - The Ultimate Luxury Gift For Your Loved Ones

2011-10-08T12:31:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for a gift item that is not only expensive but also classy and elegant, befitting the dignity and respectability of the person for whom it is meant, then you cannot possibly go wrong with Swarovski gift items. Swarovski has been specializing in fine glass cutting and crystal cutting and their workmanship is now known all over the world. From jewelry to decorative figurines and artifacts to chandeliers, Swarovski has done it all, and are still bringing new and exquisite designs to the market.

Fashion Accessories: Swarovski is not just about traditional and contemporary designing anymore, but it has managed to successfully bring in technology and art together to maximize the impact of the equipments and accessories that you carry. The Robot Naughty Raymond USB Memory Key is embedded with crystals on the rims, which is perfect for men while the women may carry the Robot Happy Laura USB Memory Key. Leather goods like the Link mauve Coin Purse or the Lychee Red Coin Purse are extremely popular for their exquisite designing.

Figurines: An excellent choice for gifting someone who is either moving to a new home, or getting married or even in occasions like Christmas and Easter, Swarovski crystal figurines will hold the place of honor in anyone's home. The exquisite Wedding Present is a gift unto itself and the craftsmanship of the Tomaso in Black crystal will be anyone's envy. The Butterfly, Bejeweled will be hard to resist looking at while the interesting animal collection comprising of ducks, elephants, reindeer, owl, rabbits are not only cute but makes for a very interesting collection as well.

Jewelry: It is an error made by many to confuse Swarovski embedded jewelry with real diamond jewelry, as dazzling and exquisite they are. The range includes bangles, pendants, rings, brooches, hair jewels, necklaces, bracelets earrings and almost anything that you can want for. The designs are both elegant and quirky to suit people of every mood and preferences, while cute floral and animal designs are very popular for teenage girls. Entire sets are also available.

Home Accessories: Birds, Flowers, Animal Sculptures, Pens, Photo Frame, Candle Holders, Vases and Bowls - the list is almost endless when it comes to home accessories. They are exquisitely crafted and makes for the ideal gift in any occasion. They are sophisticated and elegant and although a bit expensive is worth it, because the receiver will truly appreciate your feelings and wishes with such a genuine and heart warming gift.

Having an item embedded with Swarovski crystals does not only change the décor of the room, but it is also a status symbol that few can ignore.

For more information on Swarovski Crystal, check out the info available online; these will help you learn to find the Waterford Crystal!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Harry

Anti Inflammatory Juice for Arthritis

2011-10-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

Mangosteen juice is finally starting to catch on in the United States as an anti inflammatory substance for arthritis. When I was living in the region of southeast Asia for 10 months, I discovered a host of different fruits that I had never seen before, fruits like jackfruit, lychee, and mangosteen. Because the fruits were so flavorful I began to do a little bit of research into their health properties to see if any special health benefits existed, and if they were different health benefits from the standard Western fruits like apples and oranges. I found that yes there were. One of the main health benefits I found was in the fruit mangosteen. Mangosteen, even though the first part of its name is mango, has nothing in common with real mangoes. It's shaped quite oddly and has a skin and flavor unlike any other fruit I've tried. It's a very delicious flavor on its own, and I've found that it's also very good when mixed with other fruits and drinks.

So why drink mangosteen juice for arthritis and inflammation? Mangosteen, beyond it's antioxidant and vitamin content, seems to have one very special feature. Though studies haven't had time to be substantiated, research is showing that mangosteen has very strong anti-inflammatory properties, making it the perfect drink to take for many health conditions that are worsened by inflammation. But beyond arthritis, natural anti-inflammatory substances have a wide range of uses. There are entire diets that are centered around the idea of eating as many natural anti inflammatory foods in your daily diet as you can. Anti-inflammatory diets are just plain good for your overall health. Proponents of anti-inflammatory diets claim that such diets reduce the risk of heart disease, keep existing heart conditions in check, reduce blood pressure, and last but not least, help control arthritis.

While there are more than 100 different kinds of arthritis out there, they are all characterized by an inflammation of the joints. This inflammation is very painful, often inhibiting a person from living an active lifestyle. Some arthritis is actually a form of autoimmune disorder in which the body will actually attack itself, but most forms of arthritis are simply the result of age and come about through the natural use of the joints over a lifetime. They just plain start to wear out. Many persons suffering from arthritis have to take medications daily in order for them to control the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. That is where mangosteen juice becomes helpful. Mangosteen contains chemicals called xanthones, which research has shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects. Reducing swelling and inflammation naturally is always better than doing it through medication. While at the same time you are getting a great dose of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and essential nutrients.

Mangosteen juice will not cure arthritis. Anti inflammatory supplements and drugs only control the pain of the arthritis, and to a limited extent, they help prevent further damage of the joints. Many forms of arthritis can't be cured. The joints just wear out. Even in the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the only thing that can generally be done is to replace the joint. There is no known cure for this and many other kinds of arthritis.

There is however, exciting new research into the realm of injecting certain natural fluids into joints like the knee in order to provide extra lubrication for many years. Such procedures can often be expensive, but the testimonials out there from persons who have had the procedures done have shown the procedures to be very effective for joint repair. Arthritis is a condition that's becoming more and more manageable. That's great news.

Mangosteen juice for arthritis is gaining lots of popularity in products these days. I can see it making a big rise in the near future. For more on arthritis and inflammation, check out another of my articles on natural anti inflammatory herbs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_Mester

Herbal Tea Recipes and Benefits

2011-10-08T12:29:00.001-07:00

Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free and low in calories, they are popular for their medicinal and calming qualities.

Combinations of Different Flower Tea & Their Functions

You can also find eight treasures tea from this site, these teas are pre-package and it is very convinient to used. There are 5 different types, lily flower, plum flavor, rose flower, laurel flower and the original flavor.

Ingredients:

Sweet Osmanthus 1 teaspoonful

Rose 6 buds

Apple 1 teaspoonful

Increases blood cells and gives rosy, healthy complexion. Regulates menstruation.

Ingredients:

Rose 10 buds

Rosemary 1 teaspoonful

Licorice root 3 slices

Improves memory. Gives rosy, healthy complexion. Removes wind in the stomach and bowels. Help to reduce weight.

Ingredients:

Rose 1 teaspoonful

Jasmine 1 teaspoonful

Apple 1 teaspoonful

Reduces giddiness. Improves blood circulation. Regulates menstruation. Improves skin texture.

Ingredients:

Lavender 1/2 teaspoonful

Jasmine 1 teaspoonful

Help bowel movement and bladder problems. Helps to reduce weight due to water retention.

Ingredients:

Lavender 1/2 teaspoonful

Rosemary 1/2 teaspoonful

Rock Sugar (a little bit)

Reduces giddiness. Removes wind in stomach and bowels. Helps insomnia. Improves common cold.

Ingredients:

Rosemary 1 teaspoonful

Bo leaf 5 pieces

Prevention of high blood pressure. Calm your nerves.

Ingredients:

Sweet Osmanthus 1 teaspoonful

Jasmine 1 teaspoonful

Reduces body heatiness. Reduces phlegm and cough.

Ingredients:

Lily 5 gm (0.1763 oz)

Jasmine 1 teaspoonful

Reduces body heatiness. Reduces phlegm and cough.

Teacuppa also has some other rosehip and hisbiscus tea which are tasty and healthy as well. Special flavor black tea such as lychee black, tiramisu black tea (exquisite), orange black tea, etc are also available.

Lisa Fan, owner of a teahouse and online tea store (http://www.teacuppa.com), has been in the family tea business for more than 5 years. Their brick and mortal teahouse has been running since the 1980s and they started an online tea store this year to share their fine teas with the rest of the world. Love writing about teas and discovering new tea cuisine recipes. Lisa is currently working on her book about teas.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Fan

Chinese New Year Parties-Some Useful Tips

2011-10-08T12:04:00.001-07:00

For 2007, the 15 day celebrations will begin on February 18th. 2007 is the year of the Pig (boar) which is also known as Ding Hai.

The Chinese calendar is based on a combination of lunar and solar movements. With a lunar cycle of around 29.5 days the misalignment to the solar cycle is compensated for by adding a month every few years. Within a period of nineteen years, there are months added on seven occasions. This can be considered as being similar to adding days during a leap year.

New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are celebrated with family and a banquet, in honour of departed ancestors is held on New Year's Eve. It is a belief that the spirits of departed relatives will attend the living in-order to celebrate the New Year's arrival together. The feast has the name 'weilu' or 'surrounding the stove'.

In advance of the New Year Chinese tradition is to complete all unfinished business from the previous year. Homes are completely cleaned and the principles of fung shei are applied to ensure that there is room for good energy and good luck top enter the home. On the stroke of midnight as the years change, all doors and windows are opened to let the old year depart. New Year's eve is traditionally celebrated by the letting off of firecrackers as a welcome to the New Year.

A Chinese family home would be decorated with vases of pretty flowers to symbolize the reawakening of nature and you would also expect to see oranges and tangerines (symbolizing happiness) and a tray of candy. If you visit a Chinese family during the celebrations it would be expected that you would bring a bag of tangerines or oranges. If they have leaves attached this will assure that the relationship will remain secure.

The tray of candy has great importance and consists of eight different types. Each type symbolises good fortune of a different type. Traditionally you would find; lotus seeds, longan, peanuts, coconut, cumquat, lychee, red melon seeds and candied melon. The arrangement overall is called 'the tray of togetherness'

Other decorations around a Chinese family home would include wall decorations which typically would be good wishes for the New Year. The common theme would be that they would be on red paper. Red is a happy colour and one that will bring good fortune and consequently it is used extensively in decoration and clothing. Superstition dictates that the appearance and attitude of a person on New Year's Day will impact them throughout the new year, hence the choice of a happy and bright colour.

These themes should be integrated into your own Chinese New Year's party. Your home should be clean and anything no longer used or valued should be discarded. If your party is on New Year's Eve, don't forget firecrackers and to throw your windows and doors open at midnight. Decorate using a red, red/gold theme.

http://www.karnival-house.co.uk/acatalog/ offers a complete range of fancy dress costumes; make-up and fancy dress accessories for Chinese and Around the World parties at [http://www.karnival-house.co.uk/acatalog/copy_of_Around_the_World.html] feel free to browse our site to find a wide costumes for your party. Karnival-House holds huge stocks of fancy dress costumes and accessories all available for immediate dispatch. New party lines, including Chinese party accessories arriving all the time.

Article submitted by: KV Sinclair. Keith Sinclair has over 35 years of business experience and in addition to being a part time University Lecturer on Business Studies, he is CEO of Cavalcade; a group of companies operating in the party sector. Cavalcade operates Karnival-House http//:http://www.karnival-house.co.uk one of the UK's leading internet Fancy Dress Retailers. With massive stocks for immediate dispatch and an ever expanding range, Karnival-House continues to strive simply to offer outstanding service combined with outstanding value.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_Sinclair

French Wines - Gewurztraminer D'Alsace

2011-10-08T12:03:00.001-07:00

Alsace region of France, situated on the extreme east of France bordering Germany, produces some of the best tasting white wines in the world.

The 2 most famous French grapes used in white wines made in the U.S. and Canada, notably Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer come from Alsace. This region, previously a part of the Roman Empire, changed hands between France and Germany several times between the 17th and 20th century.

The best Riesling wines in the world come from this region also. However, the grape originates from the Rhine region on the the German side. as where Gewurztraminer comes originally from the Rhine in Alsace, between the Vosges and the Blackforest on the French side.

Gewurztraminer is highly aromatic and usually off-dry, with a flamboyant bouquet of lychee. At the nose, it emanates aromas of roses, passion fruit with floral notes.

This distinctively fruity wine gives the impression of a sweet wine, but in reality it contains much less sugar than it makes belief. It is a perfect wine for amateur wine drinkers, specially the ones that do not necessarily like wine. It gives one the impression of drinking a high quality grape juice.

The more dry Gewurztraminers give a less sweet impression, but because they are considered more of a spicy wine, they are among the very few wines that are suitable for drinking with Asian dishes! Another particularly good match with this wine would be smoked salmon.

This lightly gold wine is a jewel that has to be discovered, and to discover it, you should not go further than looking for it in the Alsace region of France. Any imitation Gewurztraminers from other parts of the world do not even come close to it's delicious, distinctive and joyful taste, and drinking them as Gewurztraminer, excuse my French, would be fooling yourself. So, please do yourself a favor and drink only the original Gewurztraminer d'Alsace.

Thank you and cheers.

Mike Samii,

Cordon Bleu Chef/Author

To obtain our e-book "The Right Wine For Your Food," and get access to a directory of 279 types of food and 80 types of impressive wine to match them, visit us at http://www.tastefullyamerican.com/TheRightWineForYourFood.htm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Samii

Wholesale Sweets - Treats to Bring Home

2011-10-08T12:02:00.001-07:00

Did you know that it is a custom in other countries to bring something home from visiting another place? In other places, it is a custom to bring or offer something to a home they will visit. The items that are brought are commonly foods, wholesale sweets, and household decors. Whichever is the case, however, the generous gesture is very hospitable and sweet.

If a person just came home from another country, he can purchase or bring home that country's delicacy, souvenirs and other local products. Surely there are lots of local wholesale sweets there, extraordinary items and fascinating products. When he takes one of these home, it goes to say that he also wants to share a piece of what he has experienced from his trip.

On the other hand, giving of wholesale sweets, pastries and ornaments to a household that is about to be visited by a person is also considered very courteous and generous. Just like in ancient times among the first tribes in the world, doing this gesture would represent that the visitor comes in peace and wants friendship. It may sound primitive but it is an inescapable truth. Humans somehow still interact with society the way their ancestors did.

Wholesale sweets can consist of so many treats from around the world. Visiting Belgium, for example, one can fill his pack with varieties of luscious chocolates and other classic old European candies. Some of these are flavored in licorice among others. In the Middle East, they also have their own version of sweets such as preserved and sugared dates and so much more.

In tropical countries, wholesale sweets are bursting with varieties of sun-kissed and sweetest fruits. Some treats may come in mango, lychee, papaya, pineapple and a lot more flavors. Some exotic and unique flavors are also found in each country such as Durian and Rambutan in most parts of Asia. In cold countries, sweets flavors come in peppermint, wintergreen, apples, different kinds of berries and so much more.

Bringing some treats home or to a household is a very admirable tradition because beyond the carrying of wholesale sweets, baskets of fruits, casseroles and boxes of ornaments, are signs of generosity and humanity. Every human should be proud of this tradition and should pass it on to their children. These gestures, whether people acknowledge it or not, represent love, peace and friendship.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Parker

Family Activity Ideas in Chiang Mai

2011-10-08T12:01:00.001-07:00

1. Chiang Mai Zoo
Now known for 'Ling Ping' the panda that was recently born here and who has become a fixture of national pride with Thai tourists flocking to the zoo just to see this cuddly creature. Apart from the pandas there is just about every other creature you can imagine. The zoo is huge and you could spend the whole day here watching and feeding the animals

2. Buffalo Training camp
One of the newer tourist attractions and lesser known, this buffalo training camp shows the pivotal role that the buffalo played in daily Thai farming life. There is a demonstration on how rice is farmed in Thailand and how buffaloes were used to plough the rice fields and grind sugar cane, followed by the chance to ride on the back a buffalo and take pictures with them. Very educational and fun at the same time

3. Tiger Kingdom
Here they have several enclosures you can enter, get up close to the tigers pet them and have your photos taken with them. They offer different packages depending on the number and type of enclosures you want to visit, they have baby cubs to fully grown adults

4. Elephant Riding and bamboo rafting
One of the most famous and popular activities in CM, and a must do for families is a visit to the elephant camp. There are 2 camps, one in Mae Sa Valley and one in Mae Taeng both offering the same - an elephant show and elephant riding. Watch the elephants paint and play football, followed by a ride through the surrounding forests

5. Scorpion Tailed River cruises
Take a boat trip along the Mae Ping River that runs through the city. The Scorpion is a small family run business they're a gentle and friendly bunch. They have 3 boats that are very distinct looking, as they are replicas of old boats that used to sail down the river in previous times. Along the way an English speaking guide will point out the main sights and tell you about the history of Chiang Mai. The ride ends up at Scorpion Tailed guesthouse where there is a short tour of their garden and fruit trees. All rounded up by some complimentary mango sticky rice and lychee juice

6. Doi Suthep Temple
There is a saying that goes 'if you never go to Doi Suthep, it's like you have never been to Chiang Mai'. This is because this highly revered temple is considered the symbol of Chiang Mai. Perched on the mountain side at the northern end it offers great views overlooking the city. The temple and its pagodas are exquisite, a great cultural and religious sight that is a joy to visit

7. Sunday walking street market
Held every Sunday from approx 4pm-10pm Chiang Mai's famous market held on the main walking street is a great place to pick up souvenirs and handicrafts. Hilltribe products, jewellery, a wide variety of handicrafts from handmade lamps to clothes can be bought here at bargain prices. Apart from the shopping it has many stalls selling a range of local snacks and food from Chiang Mai sausage to coconut desert delicacies.

8. Explore the countryside
Get out of the tourist hub and take a day or more excursion to explore the beauty of the surrounding countryside of Chiang Mai. Places such as Chiang Dao can be done in a day, for longer trips head to Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son which are more traditional areas that are rich in hilltribe culture, mountains, and breathtaking scenery

9. Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders
Something for little boys and one of the more unusual attractions, this museum displays over 400 species of insects. The owner 'Manop' will personally guide you through the museum - a fascinating and educational experience

10. Snake and Monkey centres
Located in the Mae Sa valley, the snake centre is not for the fainthearted. They have a variety of snakes here and a daily man-teasing snake show. Here you can touch and take pictures with the snakes - another little boy's treat. The monkey centre is fun too, feed the monkeys and watch them perform tricks at the monkey show

Created by Melissa Ah-Sing the co-founder of Thailand Hilltribe Holidays a tour operator that specialises in cultural and family friendly tours of Northern Thailand

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_Ah-Sing

MonaVie and Its Different Fruits - Part One

2011-09-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

MonaVie is a healthy juice with overly nutritious ingredients. It is a tasty blend of nineteen different kinds of fruits. The nineteen fruits in MonaVie consist of acai berries, apricots, aronias, acerolas, purple grapes, passion fruits, camu camu, banana, lychee fruits, nashi pears, kiwis, pomegranates, prunes, wolfberries, pears, bilberries, cranberries, blueberries, and white grapes.

The acai berry is the most important of all the fruits in MonaVie. Its capabilities in fighting against harmful antioxidants is what makes it so unique. The acai berry is made up of two thirds fiber making it an excellent source of the macronutrient. It is grown in the Amazon region of Brazil.

The apricot is a drupe which is similar to a small peach, 1.5-2.5 cm diameter. It is yellow to orange, often traced red on the side most exposed to the sun; its surface is usually pubescent. Apricots give MonaVie an extra boost of fiber which is important because most Americans don't get the recommended daily dosage of fiber.

The aronias berry is astringent and not sweet, and it attributes Vitamin C and important antioxidants to the MonaVie juice. The acerola fruit is bright red, 1.5-2 cm diameter, containing 2-3 hard seeds. It is juicy, often as much sour as sweet in flavor. Acerolas are also significant for their high Vitamin C content.

Purple grapes in medical research show potential benefits against the onset stage of cancer, platelet aggregation and other risk factors of atherosclerosis. The passion fruit is round to oval, yellow or dark purple at maturity, and has a soft to firm, juicy interior filled with numerous seeds. The passion fruit has been believed to lower blood pressure. Camu camu is a red/purple cherry like fruit. It is extremely high in Vitamin C content. Bananas lend to MonaVie a valuable source of vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium. The lychee fruit is also rich in vitamin C and has a textural quality similar to a grape. The nashi pear helps to give MonaVie a sweet refreshing taste and is actually an expensive fruit to buy.

Read a complete review of Monavie juice.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Asbury

Power Foods in Your Diet-Getting the Most Out of Each Meal

2011-09-12T06:45:00.001-07:00

When it comes to nutrition and choice of foods type 2 diabetics have to be very choosy. This is because diabetics need to get as much nutritional value out of every calorie as possible. Every food consumed has carbohydrates which in turn becomes glucose, which always has to be in check among diabetics. Diabetics therefore have to be very choosy to get the most out of each meal in terms of nutritional value. Natural foods are generally healthy food choices for diabetics, but there are certain natural foods that contain more nutritional value than others.

Generally fruits and vegetables contain great nutritional value, but some contain a little more and some which we may not be too familiar are excellent sources of certain nutrients.

Some of these fresh fruits that should not be ignored and should be eaten more frequently are fresh figs, lychee nuts, guava, papaya, and Asian pears.

Fresh figs have about 900 milligrams of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure. About six figs have almost twice as much potassium as the average banana. Figs are also a good source of calcium the same six fig serving has as much calcium as about half a cup of milk.

Lychee nuts are have a lot of antioxidants, one serving has about fifteen percent more polyphenols than red grapes. These same antioxidants have also been shown to help prevent the growth of breast cancer cells.

Guavas have almost five times as much vitamin C as one medium sized orange which has been shown to be needed for collagen production, which is essentially to keeping your skin elastic. Guava also has as many antioxidants as other blueberries and broccoli. This fruit may also help protect against food-borne pathogens.

Papaya is a great source of lycopene and beta-crypoxanthin which can help protect your body against different types of cancer. It also contains an enzyme called papain, that can aid in digestion.

Asian pears have about twice as much fiber as typical apple. Which studies have shown to help reduce bad cholesterol. A diet high in fiber has also been linked with lower body mass and actually reduces the net carbohydrate content of the pear.

There are also other foods that should be regularly eaten by type 2 diabetics.

Legume such as black beans, pinto beans, and lentils have lots of protein, fiber and antioxidants that help protect memory and encourage muscle growth and protects the heart.

Blueberries had antioxidants, boost immunity, protect the heart, reduce the risk of cancer, and stimulate memory. Blueberries also have fiber, vitamin A, and Vitamin C. Similarly grapes, raising and acai berries provide these type of benefits.

Carrots have cartenoids and help lower the risk of several forms of cancer. Other similar foods include sweet potato, pumpkin, mango, and butternut squash. Carrots should be eaten in moderation by type 2 diabetics because of its high natural sugar contents.

Spinach is an excellent source of the B vitamin folate and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These reduce the of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Spinach also contains lutein, a compound that can help fight macular degeneration. The same benefits can also be obtain from bok choy, cabbage, kale, and romaine lettuce for many of the same health benefits.

Tomatoes and other as almost all red fruits and vegetables are full of the antioxidant lycopene. Lycopene can help reduce your risk of several forms of cancer and coronary artery disease. Similarly try watermelon, pink grapefruit, papaya, and guava for many of the same health benefits as tomatoes.

Free recipes for type 2 diabetics, can be found at Type 2 diabetic recipes

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arnold_Hernandez

A Great Cup of Tea Starts with Great Tea, Naturally

2011-09-12T06:44:00.000-07:00

You can make a great cup of tea with almost any old teapot, but you can't do it without great tea.

There are no two ways about it: a great up of tea begins with great tea. What you do with that tea - how you brew it - is important, too, but there is absolutely no substitute for great tea.

So how do you know one tea from another? For most of us, it is a matter of taste. Some folks prefer black tea, others oolong, and others green or white. But there's much more to it than that.

Great tea begins with great tea leaves, preferably grown at high altitude and process to bring out the leaves' unique flavor and character.

Here are some tips for finding great tea:

Look for loose tea leaves. Some of the best varieties are sold by the ounce (or grams) or by the pound, for those who know what they like and want to purchase a lot. As a rule of thumb, the more expensive the tea, the higher quality it may be. Taste, however, factors into it, and some expensive teas are simply produced in limited quantity, and price reflects both supply, and, in many cases, quality.

For oolongs, I prefer fairly light ones, made from whole leaves that unfurl during the brewing process. "Jade oolong" is a good example of a moderately priced loose-leaf tea that brews to a fine potion that's fragrant, almost sweet, and invigorating. For white teas, I prefer "silver needle", a relatively expensive tea whose leaves look like light gray-green needles and make a "grassy", fragrant brew. I also like "snow buds", a less expensive white tea with a slightly more roasted flavor and aroma. As for green teas, I favor the robust hoji cha, whose needle-like leaves brew a strongly roasted flavor and an earthy aroma or gunpowder tea, whose leaves unfurl in hot water, yielding a smoky, rich brew. Green tea can also have a grassy, fresh flavor and aroma - a typical example is sen cha. Some folks like black tea. It's my least favorite, but I have to admit that Lychee Noir (black tea flavored with lychee nuts) can hit the spot on a cold winter afternoon.

As for tea bags, if you want a great cup of tea, my advice is, "don't even think about it."

So what about tea pots, brewing cups, and such. I think the most important thing, whether you brew in a pot or a cup is to have enough room in the pot or tea strainer for water to circulate freely around the leaves. Brewing a great cup of tea is more about technique than it is about equipment. Simple rules: use the right amount of tea for the effect you want; use just-boiling water, and pour or remove the tea strainer from the tea at the right time. " The volume of tea leaves you use and how long you brew have more to do with your personal preference than any right or wrong way. Most days I brew my tea in a bamboo tea "basket" or strainer that I put in a mug. I put the strainer in a small bowl between infusions and re-infuse the leaves until they are without flavor. The number of infusions I get per strainer varies with the type of tea and how much I use in the first place. By afternoon, however, when I want a fine cup of jade oolong, I brew my tea in a small, unglazed Chinese pot that makes two small Asian-style cups (those things that look like small bowls). Here, too, I reuse the leaves until they no longer have flavor. Glazed ceramic tea pots have their place, too, and they're certainly worthy of great tea leaves. Unless you're making tea for a big group and pouring it all at once, I don't recommend brewing tea in a large pot. Leaving the leaves to infuse for long periods can yield a bitter brew, and microwaved tea that has been brewed earlier in the day just doesn't do it for me.

If you're looking for more information about tea, visit teatigress.com, where the old Tea Tigress offers descriptions of tea types, brewing instructions, and her very strong opinions.

Hannah Wing is a freelance writer, and has been an avid drinker of great tea for as long as she can remember. She also writes for TeaTigress.com, where the opinionated Tea Tigress enlightens all of us on matters related to tea.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hannah_Wing