Growing up, coffee was typically weak and tea was served cold over ice with lots of sugar. Warm tea was rarely served unless you were real upscale with a European influence. Not that we have anything against weak coffee and sweet tea, we just looked for something more.
Making Japanese Inspired Housewares has highlighted the Japanese tea ceremony and specifically the tea itself and utensils that are used during it. The tea is a powdered green tea, called Matcha, which is mixed with hot water and mixed with a whisk until frothy. The idea is to whisk and whisk until the tea is aerated, releasing a wonderful aroma, and a thick froth has formed on top (think cappuccino). We'll say this is not as easy as it appears. The flavor is actually similar to good coffee in it's rich earthiness but with a more subtle delivery and less acidity. High levels of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins are an added bonus. We have come to really enjoy drinking Matcha, not just for the flavor, but also for the process which requires that you slow down and think about the tea...and if you're lucky your mind will wander outside of work and to-do lists to a place of quite.