hot drinks Archives - thedancingcucumber.com thedancingcucumber.com Sun, 31 May 2020 12:10:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 Herbal Infusions to Drink Before Bedtime https://thedancingcucumber.com/herbal-infusions-to-drink-before-bedtime/ Sat, 30 May 2020 06:00:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=3962 Many of us have has ussies with going to sleep, and these problems have only been exacerbated by the current societal situation, which has seen daytime activity reduced and the amount of time using computer screens rise. If you are having trouble going to sleep at night, the good thing is that there are plenty […]

The post Herbal Infusions to Drink Before Bedtime appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

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Many of us have has ussies with going to sleep, and these problems have only been exacerbated by the current societal situation, which has seen daytime activity reduced and the amount of time using computer screens rise.

If you are having trouble going to sleep at night, the good thing is that there are plenty of herbal teas that can help you feel sleepy. Here are some that you should try before bed if you’re finding it difficult to fall asleep.

Chamomile

Chamomile has long been lauded for its ability to cause drowsiness, making it a great choice before going to bed. An antioxidant called apigenin is found in this herb, and has sleep-inducing properties.

Lavender Tea

While it might be difficult to find an infusion or tea consisting mostly of lavender, there are plenty of options that incorporate this sleep-inducing flower. Just be sure that the variety that you buy doesn’t contain more than a tiny bit of caffeine, or it might not work.

Valerian Root

Valeria is a common flower native to Europe and Asia, and its root has long been used as a natural sleep aid. Plenty of herbal tea mixes contain this root, and draw rave reviews for its ability to induce drowsiness.

View this post on Instagram

Continuing the sleep theme here is a little valerian plant. This shows the roots which is the part of the plant that we harvest. These are either dried out for making teas or cold infusions later on or soaked in alcohol or glycerine to make a tincture which is a stronger herbal remedy. If you are growing it you can also make a fresh infusion. Valerian is sometimes described as nature’s valium. It is categorised as a tranquilliser and contains valepotriates which have a depressant effect on our nervous systems. It’s a good one to try if other sedatives haven’t helped you to sleep. It is also a mild pain reliever so can be helpful if your sleeplessness if linked to pain. In last nights session we tried the cold macerate. This is made by soaking 25g of the root in 600ml water overnight (for about 8 hours). You can then drink 1 cup of this 3 times a day for anxiety or have it before bed for insomnia. It can also be used as a compress by applying a flannel/cloth soaked in the cold macerate to muscle cramps. The tincture can be used in more serious cases of nervous tension or insomnia but best to see a medical herbalist if you want to do this. It’s also not recommended to take valerian if you are suffering with depression or low mood as it can exacerbate this and always check with your GP/medical herbalist if you want to take herbs alongside other medication to be safe. 🌿😴

A post shared by Hackney Herbal (@hackneyherbal) on

The post Herbal Infusions to Drink Before Bedtime appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

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Three Keys For Making Delicious Moka Pot Coffee https://thedancingcucumber.com/three-keys-for-making-delicious-moka-pot-coffee/ Sun, 15 Mar 2020 09:57:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=3623 More and more coffee lovers have started to experiment with moka pots these days. This classic coffee-making device, which has been popular in countries such as Italy, Spain, and Portugal for decades, is now having its value recognized by people all over the globe. If you are looking to start making coffee using this classic […]

The post Three Keys For Making Delicious Moka Pot Coffee appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
More and more coffee lovers have started to experiment with moka pots these days. This classic coffee-making device, which has been popular in countries such as Italy, Spain, and Portugal for decades, is now having its value recognized by people all over the globe.

If you are looking to start making coffee using this classic method, here are some keys for making the best-tasting moka pot coffee possible.

Start off With Warm Water

One key to making good moka pot coffee is to put warm water into the water reservoir when brewing the coffee. Cold water will take too long to heat up, allowing for the possibility of the coffee grounds to burn and taste bad.

Don’t Heat at Maximum Temperature

Instead of turning your stove onto its highest possible temperature to make your moka pot coffee, and do it fast, try medium-high heat. Once again, this is key in avoiding the possibility of the coffee grounds burning and the water spraying out of the moka pot uncontrollably.

Avoid Letting the Coffee Boil

Make sure to keep an eye on your moka pot after the coffee is finished brewing. If you allow it to sit for too long in the device’s upper chamber, it may begin to boil, rendering it extremely unpalatable.

The post Three Keys For Making Delicious Moka Pot Coffee appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

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Make Your Hot Chocolate Memorable with These Toppings https://thedancingcucumber.com/make-your-hot-chocolate-memorable-with-these-toppings/ Sun, 23 Feb 2020 06:56:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=3615 Spring might be just around the corner, but the cold weather of winter hasn’t quite left us yet. Nothing warms you up and gives you a boost on a cold winter day like a cup of hot chocolate, one of my favorite treats. Are you looking to make your hot chocolate a little more exciting? […]

The post Make Your Hot Chocolate Memorable with These Toppings appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Spring might be just around the corner, but the cold weather of winter hasn’t quite left us yet. Nothing warms you up and gives you a boost on a cold winter day like a cup of hot chocolate, one of my favorite treats.

Are you looking to make your hot chocolate a little more exciting? Why not try these toppings, which will add a new flavor sensation to your cup.

Marshmallows

Marshmallows add a bit of creamy sweetness to your hot chocolate. Place mini marshmallows on top of your cup of hot chocolate, and prepare to be amazed as they begin to melt into a creamy mass that is devilishly sweet.

View this post on Instagram

Current mood 💭

A post shared by GABRIELLE 🥥 (@g_lepage) on

Whipped Cream

Whipped cream provides a great contrast to the sweet heat of hot chocolate. Cool, creamy, and adding a moderating bit of coolness to a hot cup of this popular drink, you’ll love how these two things complement each other.

Almond Bits

Are you a fan of chocolate-covered almonds? If so, you have to try almond bits in your hot chocolate. Adding nuttiness and a bit of body to hot chocolate, you’ll be surprised at just how well this works as a topping.

The post Make Your Hot Chocolate Memorable with These Toppings appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Try Adding These Ingredients to Green Tea to Enhance Flavor https://thedancingcucumber.com/try-adding-these-ingredients-to-green-tea-to-enhance-flavor/ Mon, 27 Jan 2020 06:46:25 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=3392 Green tea is one of my favorite hot beverages. The delicate, slightly bitter, and slightly herbal flavor of this tea can be enjoyed on its own, but many people prefer to add another flavor to make it taste a little better. If you want to upgrade the taste of your next cup of green tea, […]

The post Try Adding These Ingredients to Green Tea to Enhance Flavor appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Green tea is one of my favorite hot beverages. The delicate, slightly bitter, and slightly herbal flavor of this tea can be enjoyed on its own, but many people prefer to add another flavor to make it taste a little better.

If you want to upgrade the taste of your next cup of green tea, why not give these ingredients a try?

Honey

My favorite ingredient to add to a cup of green tea is as simple as a spoonful of honey. In addition to the antioxidant boost that this “liquid gold” gives, it also adds a delicious bit of sweetness to the drink.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B21pphvnLRI/

Dried Mango

Adding dried mango to a cup of green tea rehydrates the fruit, allowing its juices to escape into the drink and imbuing it with a delicious, sweet, and tropical flavor. This is a great addition to give the tea a bit of sweetness to counteract its natural bitterness.

Ginger

Another great option for green tea is ginger, which gives the drink a bit of spicy bite that many love. In addition, ginger is a super healthy root that has the ability to reduce inflammation and calm an upset stomach.

The post Try Adding These Ingredients to Green Tea to Enhance Flavor appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
The Best Kinds Of Tea To Drink https://thedancingcucumber.com/the-best-kinds-of-tea-to-drink/ Fri, 28 Dec 2018 15:18:38 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=1873 Apart from plain water, tea is one of the best drinks to have for your health. There is a multitude of teas that all work differently with all sorts of health benefits that sometimes it seems difficult to choose. But, if you really want to get your body right, look to these teas. Chai Most […]

The post The Best Kinds Of Tea To Drink appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Apart from plain water, tea is one of the best drinks to have for your health. There is a multitude of teas that all work differently with all sorts of health benefits that sometimes it seems difficult to choose. But, if you really want to get your body right, look to these teas.

Chai

Most people hear chai and immediately think latte, but in reality, it is a tea that originates from India. Chai is actually just the name for tea in Hindi, but it is normally a spiced black tea that can help you with digestion, reduce your blood sugar, and still give you almost as much caffeine as a cup of coffee!

Chamomile

Chamomile is the perfect tea to have before bed, because it is packed with antioxidants, including one called apigenin that actually makes you sleepy. This antioxidant actually activates the areas of your brain that make you feel tired, so if you struggle to fall asleep, you should definitely have this on your nightstand.

Ginger

Ginger tea is just what you need if you struggle with heartburn or any other digestion issues. It is also something good to drink if you’re in a car or another vehicle and you get motion sickness.

The post The Best Kinds Of Tea To Drink appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Two Delicious Tea Infusions For The Winter https://thedancingcucumber.com/two-delicious-tea-infusions-for-the-winter/ Wed, 21 Nov 2018 18:57:21 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=1735 There is nothing better than sitting near a fire during the cold months and having a hot drink in your hand. And, especially when the weather is getting worse, it is always nice to have friends around to keep you company. If you ever find yourself with a lot of people in your house and […]

The post Two Delicious Tea Infusions For The Winter appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
There is nothing better than sitting near a fire during the cold months and having a hot drink in your hand. And, especially when the weather is getting worse, it is always nice to have friends around to keep you company.

If you ever find yourself with a lot of people in your house and you want to chill out, making tea is an awesome way to bring everyone together. Here are some unique and delicious tea infusions that everyone will love.

Mint And Lemon

Whether you are using store-bought bags of mint or peppermint tea, or fresh herbs, there is something so therapeutic and warming about hot mint tea. It is also a great drink to have after eating a big meal because it aids in digestion. Add in some juicy lemons and you simply can’t beat it.

Ginger And Honey

Ginger is a spicy root herb that is perfect for winter days. If you are using fresh ginger though, make sure you take off the skin unless you buy organic. An easy way to do that is to just use a teaspoon to scrape it off! Boil pieces of ginger in a pot with water and serve with honey.

 

The post Two Delicious Tea Infusions For The Winter appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> hot drinks Archives - thedancingcucumber.com thedancingcucumber.com Sun, 31 May 2020 12:10:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 Herbal Infusions to Drink Before Bedtime https://thedancingcucumber.com/herbal-infusions-to-drink-before-bedtime/ Sat, 30 May 2020 06:00:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=3962 Many of us have has ussies with going to sleep, and these problems have only been exacerbated by the current societal situation, which has seen daytime activity reduced and the amount of time using computer screens rise. If you are having trouble going to sleep at night, the good thing is that there are plenty […]

The post Herbal Infusions to Drink Before Bedtime appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Many of us have has ussies with going to sleep, and these problems have only been exacerbated by the current societal situation, which has seen daytime activity reduced and the amount of time using computer screens rise.

If you are having trouble going to sleep at night, the good thing is that there are plenty of herbal teas that can help you feel sleepy. Here are some that you should try before bed if you’re finding it difficult to fall asleep.

Chamomile

Chamomile has long been lauded for its ability to cause drowsiness, making it a great choice before going to bed. An antioxidant called apigenin is found in this herb, and has sleep-inducing properties.

Lavender Tea

While it might be difficult to find an infusion or tea consisting mostly of lavender, there are plenty of options that incorporate this sleep-inducing flower. Just be sure that the variety that you buy doesn’t contain more than a tiny bit of caffeine, or it might not work.

Valerian Root

Valeria is a common flower native to Europe and Asia, and its root has long been used as a natural sleep aid. Plenty of herbal tea mixes contain this root, and draw rave reviews for its ability to induce drowsiness.

View this post on Instagram

Continuing the sleep theme here is a little valerian plant. This shows the roots which is the part of the plant that we harvest. These are either dried out for making teas or cold infusions later on or soaked in alcohol or glycerine to make a tincture which is a stronger herbal remedy. If you are growing it you can also make a fresh infusion. Valerian is sometimes described as nature’s valium. It is categorised as a tranquilliser and contains valepotriates which have a depressant effect on our nervous systems. It’s a good one to try if other sedatives haven’t helped you to sleep. It is also a mild pain reliever so can be helpful if your sleeplessness if linked to pain. In last nights session we tried the cold macerate. This is made by soaking 25g of the root in 600ml water overnight (for about 8 hours). You can then drink 1 cup of this 3 times a day for anxiety or have it before bed for insomnia. It can also be used as a compress by applying a flannel/cloth soaked in the cold macerate to muscle cramps. The tincture can be used in more serious cases of nervous tension or insomnia but best to see a medical herbalist if you want to do this. It’s also not recommended to take valerian if you are suffering with depression or low mood as it can exacerbate this and always check with your GP/medical herbalist if you want to take herbs alongside other medication to be safe. 🌿😴

A post shared by Hackney Herbal (@hackneyherbal) on

The post Herbal Infusions to Drink Before Bedtime appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Three Keys For Making Delicious Moka Pot Coffee https://thedancingcucumber.com/three-keys-for-making-delicious-moka-pot-coffee/ Sun, 15 Mar 2020 09:57:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=3623 More and more coffee lovers have started to experiment with moka pots these days. This classic coffee-making device, which has been popular in countries such as Italy, Spain, and Portugal for decades, is now having its value recognized by people all over the globe. If you are looking to start making coffee using this classic […]

The post Three Keys For Making Delicious Moka Pot Coffee appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
More and more coffee lovers have started to experiment with moka pots these days. This classic coffee-making device, which has been popular in countries such as Italy, Spain, and Portugal for decades, is now having its value recognized by people all over the globe.

If you are looking to start making coffee using this classic method, here are some keys for making the best-tasting moka pot coffee possible.

Start off With Warm Water

One key to making good moka pot coffee is to put warm water into the water reservoir when brewing the coffee. Cold water will take too long to heat up, allowing for the possibility of the coffee grounds to burn and taste bad.

Don’t Heat at Maximum Temperature

Instead of turning your stove onto its highest possible temperature to make your moka pot coffee, and do it fast, try medium-high heat. Once again, this is key in avoiding the possibility of the coffee grounds burning and the water spraying out of the moka pot uncontrollably.

Avoid Letting the Coffee Boil

Make sure to keep an eye on your moka pot after the coffee is finished brewing. If you allow it to sit for too long in the device’s upper chamber, it may begin to boil, rendering it extremely unpalatable.

The post Three Keys For Making Delicious Moka Pot Coffee appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Make Your Hot Chocolate Memorable with These Toppings https://thedancingcucumber.com/make-your-hot-chocolate-memorable-with-these-toppings/ Sun, 23 Feb 2020 06:56:00 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=3615 Spring might be just around the corner, but the cold weather of winter hasn’t quite left us yet. Nothing warms you up and gives you a boost on a cold winter day like a cup of hot chocolate, one of my favorite treats. Are you looking to make your hot chocolate a little more exciting? […]

The post Make Your Hot Chocolate Memorable with These Toppings appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Spring might be just around the corner, but the cold weather of winter hasn’t quite left us yet. Nothing warms you up and gives you a boost on a cold winter day like a cup of hot chocolate, one of my favorite treats.

Are you looking to make your hot chocolate a little more exciting? Why not try these toppings, which will add a new flavor sensation to your cup.

Marshmallows

Marshmallows add a bit of creamy sweetness to your hot chocolate. Place mini marshmallows on top of your cup of hot chocolate, and prepare to be amazed as they begin to melt into a creamy mass that is devilishly sweet.

View this post on Instagram

Current mood 💭

A post shared by GABRIELLE 🥥 (@g_lepage) on

Whipped Cream

Whipped cream provides a great contrast to the sweet heat of hot chocolate. Cool, creamy, and adding a moderating bit of coolness to a hot cup of this popular drink, you’ll love how these two things complement each other.

Almond Bits

Are you a fan of chocolate-covered almonds? If so, you have to try almond bits in your hot chocolate. Adding nuttiness and a bit of body to hot chocolate, you’ll be surprised at just how well this works as a topping.

The post Make Your Hot Chocolate Memorable with These Toppings appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Try Adding These Ingredients to Green Tea to Enhance Flavor https://thedancingcucumber.com/try-adding-these-ingredients-to-green-tea-to-enhance-flavor/ Mon, 27 Jan 2020 06:46:25 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=3392 Green tea is one of my favorite hot beverages. The delicate, slightly bitter, and slightly herbal flavor of this tea can be enjoyed on its own, but many people prefer to add another flavor to make it taste a little better. If you want to upgrade the taste of your next cup of green tea, […]

The post Try Adding These Ingredients to Green Tea to Enhance Flavor appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Green tea is one of my favorite hot beverages. The delicate, slightly bitter, and slightly herbal flavor of this tea can be enjoyed on its own, but many people prefer to add another flavor to make it taste a little better.

If you want to upgrade the taste of your next cup of green tea, why not give these ingredients a try?

Honey

My favorite ingredient to add to a cup of green tea is as simple as a spoonful of honey. In addition to the antioxidant boost that this “liquid gold” gives, it also adds a delicious bit of sweetness to the drink.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B21pphvnLRI/

Dried Mango

Adding dried mango to a cup of green tea rehydrates the fruit, allowing its juices to escape into the drink and imbuing it with a delicious, sweet, and tropical flavor. This is a great addition to give the tea a bit of sweetness to counteract its natural bitterness.

Ginger

Another great option for green tea is ginger, which gives the drink a bit of spicy bite that many love. In addition, ginger is a super healthy root that has the ability to reduce inflammation and calm an upset stomach.

The post Try Adding These Ingredients to Green Tea to Enhance Flavor appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
The Best Kinds Of Tea To Drink https://thedancingcucumber.com/the-best-kinds-of-tea-to-drink/ Fri, 28 Dec 2018 15:18:38 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=1873 Apart from plain water, tea is one of the best drinks to have for your health. There is a multitude of teas that all work differently with all sorts of health benefits that sometimes it seems difficult to choose. But, if you really want to get your body right, look to these teas. Chai Most […]

The post The Best Kinds Of Tea To Drink appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Apart from plain water, tea is one of the best drinks to have for your health. There is a multitude of teas that all work differently with all sorts of health benefits that sometimes it seems difficult to choose. But, if you really want to get your body right, look to these teas.

Chai

Most people hear chai and immediately think latte, but in reality, it is a tea that originates from India. Chai is actually just the name for tea in Hindi, but it is normally a spiced black tea that can help you with digestion, reduce your blood sugar, and still give you almost as much caffeine as a cup of coffee!

Chamomile

Chamomile is the perfect tea to have before bed, because it is packed with antioxidants, including one called apigenin that actually makes you sleepy. This antioxidant actually activates the areas of your brain that make you feel tired, so if you struggle to fall asleep, you should definitely have this on your nightstand.

Ginger

Ginger tea is just what you need if you struggle with heartburn or any other digestion issues. It is also something good to drink if you’re in a car or another vehicle and you get motion sickness.

The post The Best Kinds Of Tea To Drink appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
Two Delicious Tea Infusions For The Winter https://thedancingcucumber.com/two-delicious-tea-infusions-for-the-winter/ Wed, 21 Nov 2018 18:57:21 +0000 https://thedancingcucumber.com/?p=1735 There is nothing better than sitting near a fire during the cold months and having a hot drink in your hand. And, especially when the weather is getting worse, it is always nice to have friends around to keep you company. If you ever find yourself with a lot of people in your house and […]

The post Two Delicious Tea Infusions For The Winter appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

]]>
There is nothing better than sitting near a fire during the cold months and having a hot drink in your hand. And, especially when the weather is getting worse, it is always nice to have friends around to keep you company.

If you ever find yourself with a lot of people in your house and you want to chill out, making tea is an awesome way to bring everyone together. Here are some unique and delicious tea infusions that everyone will love.

Mint And Lemon

Whether you are using store-bought bags of mint or peppermint tea, or fresh herbs, there is something so therapeutic and warming about hot mint tea. It is also a great drink to have after eating a big meal because it aids in digestion. Add in some juicy lemons and you simply can’t beat it.

Ginger And Honey

Ginger is a spicy root herb that is perfect for winter days. If you are using fresh ginger though, make sure you take off the skin unless you buy organic. An easy way to do that is to just use a teaspoon to scrape it off! Boil pieces of ginger in a pot with water and serve with honey.

 

The post Two Delicious Tea Infusions For The Winter appeared first on thedancingcucumber.com.

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