Tea Talks
Welcome to the enchanting world of tea, straight from the heart of Amsterdam! I'm Kirsten, and together with my husband Niels, we proudly own 'The Smallest House' (Het Kleinste Huis in Dutch), a charming tea specialty shop with a rich history dating back to 2014. From our cozy little shop, nestled in Amsterdam's smallest house, we've sparked a true tea revolution. We've watched our collection grow from a humble 65 varieties to an impressive array of over 200 types.
Over the years, we've inspired tea enthusiasts worldwide with our unique blends and heartwarming hospitality. For us, tea is more than just a beverage; it's a life experience, a journey of taste and aroma that we're eager to share with you.
In this blog, we'll dive deep into the fascinating world of tea. From exploring the diverse range of tea types to uncovering the healing powers of this ancient drink; from mastering the art of brewing the perfect cup to exclusive recipes for delightful tea-infused pastries – we'll share it all! And of course, you can look forward to stories and anecdotes about our beloved smallest house in Amsterdam.
We've meticulously organized this blog into various categories - from culinary delights to health tips, from in-depth tea insights to tales about our unique tea house. All this, to provide you with a reading experience that's both informative and enjoyable.
Immerse yourself in the world of tea with us, Kirsten and Niels, and discover how a simple cup of tea can enrich your day. Happy reading!
Kirsten and Niels
- Tea Shop Het Kleinste Huis -
As nature adorns itself in autumn hues, we invite you to discover the unique properties of Lady's Mantle. This herb, known for its health-promoting properties, is the focus of our latest blog. We explore how Alchemilla vulgaris is not just a refined addition to your tea collection, but also supports overall well-being.
Discover its subtle flavors and the positive impact of Lady's Mantle on both physical and mental health.
This winter, swap your traditional mulled wine for a healthier, yet equally festive option: our enticing Christmas teas. In this article, discover how our specially curated Christmas teas allow you to savor all the charms of the season, but without the alcohol. These blends are not just a delight for your taste buds, but also offer benefits for your health and well-being. Let our suggestions guide you to find the perfect Christmas tea for your festive moments, and experience how a simple cup of tea can enhance the magic of the holiday season.
As the leaves change color and the evenings grow colder, a warm cup of autumn tea offers solace.
This blog delves into the deep, rich flavors and health benefits of autumn teas, perfect for the season.
You'll learn about carefully selected autumn teas that not only strengthen your body but also soothe your mind.
Additionally, we provide tips on how to make the ideal cup of autumn tea to keep you warm during the chilly autumn days.
Enter the intriguing world of "In the Shadow of Tradition: The Impact of Early Use of Matcha in East Asian Rituals." This exploration unveils the captivating history of matcha tea and its influence on cultural traditions and well-being in East Asia. Discover how this green elixir was not just a beverage but a transformative force in people's lives. This journey through time takes you to the profound significance of matcha in East Asian societies, inviting you to uncover the secrets of its heritage.
Matcha, the finely ground, vibrant green tea leaf, has captured the taste buds and hearts of people worldwide. But behind its rich flavor and numerous health benefits lies a crucial, often overlooked step in production: the art of shading matcha plants. This process, deeply rooted in tradition, plays a crucial role in shaping the quality and characteristics of the matcha you appreciate. In this article, we delve into the world of matcha cultivation to explore how this unique shading process improves the quality and taste of the tea.
In the serene world of Matcha, where every harvest tells its own story, we invite you to discover the unique rhythms of nature that influence the taste of this exquisite green tea. From the first signs of spring to the warm summer days, every season contributes to the unique character of Matcha. Follow us on a fascinating journey along the tea fields, where careful traditions and modern techniques come together to catch the essence of Matcha in every velvety, green grain.
Matcha tea is all about the quality of the leaves. The age-old art of hand-picking matcha leaves plays a crucial role in determining the taste, color and quality of this special tea. This article takes you into the heart of this delicately executed craft, where every action is of great importance for the ultimate matcha experience. Discover the deep traditions, the proven techniques and the passion behind the creation of a cup of matcha that stimulates the senses and enriches the mind.
Curious about what lies behind the delicious taste of matcha? Discover the crucial role of the steaming process, known as 'Mushi,' in the production of this refined Japanese green tea. Learn how Asamushi and Fukamushi, two different steaming techniques, affect the taste, color and texture of matcha. Discover how the experienced Chasho's, the tea masters, precisely adjust the steaming time to achieve the desired flavor balance. Learn the science and traditions behind the steaming process and understand how it changes the chemical composition of tea leaves. This article reveals the complex world of matcha and provides insight into the cultural and historical background of this special Japanese tea.
Traditional vs. Modern: Discover the dual influence of drying methods on the world of Matcha. Read our article about the traditional and modern drying methods that influence the quality and taste of this green tea powder. Discover the traditional approach of 'tencha' and the efficiency of automated technology. Traditionally dried Matcha offers depth and complexity, while modern dried varieties strive for consistency and freshness. The choice between tradition and progress goes beyond taste, it reflects the evolution of an age-old art form. Explore the interplay of old and new in the world of Matcha