Japan is foreign, exotic, with an utterly unique culture, and a wonderful regard for the aesthetic including its inspiring tea ceremony.
It also has a rich heritage of tea. On her journey to explore the world of Tea, Tea with Mary Kate was delighted to discover KuKiCha.
Japanese Geisha and her tea cup
KuKiCha has an amazingly distinctive stalky appearance
Although it is harvested from Camellia sinensis, it is twigs and stems rather than leaves that are used for making the tea that is Kukicha. This descriptive legacy, associated with this tea for hundreds of years, gives Kuchicha the wonderful ancient origin of its name, translated as “Twig Tea”.
Kukicha - Delicate Japanese twig Tea
Labelled as “Poor Mans Tea” in Japan, it is an association that still persists
It is technically regarded as an “off grade” but I adore Kukicha, not only for its enchanting name, but also its wonderful and uniquely delicate taste. Kukicha it is just a perfect tea to drink when you need something light and refreshing. Do drink it without milk, with water that is just cool from boiling and brew for a slightly shorter time than usual (2 – 3 minutes only) for a delightfully soft, aromatic brew.
And there is more good news – Kukicha is especially low in caffeine and has a fantastic health giving properties to recommend it
Being particularly high in alkaline properties and also packed with nutrients, vitamins, and polyphenols, Kukicha is health in a tea cup! I will be drinking my Kukicha in this beautiful art deco vintage tea cup, its clean white, green and silver lines just the perfect design for enjoying Kukicha.
Beautiful Art Deco Vintage Tea cup
The ancient legacy and aesthetics of Japanese Tea drinking offers an opportunity to savour Kukicha
Taking time and care over tea is still in revered in Japan. Kukicha offers a unique insight into an ancient Japanese tea drinking experience, and with the delicate aroma, and associated health benefits, Tea With Mary Kate is delighted to have discovered the unique and distinctive twig tea that is Kukicha. Do drink some soon.
