Always faced with this delightful dilemma – Tea or Coffee?

With the rain hammering a rhythm on the roof when the chill starts to set in and if accompanied by a slight pang of hunger, my inclination veers towards the comforting embrace of coffee. To me, the epitome of a perfect coffee lies in the art of brewing it in a Turkish kettle, producing an aromatic yet balanced flavour without excessive bitterness. A touch of frothy milk on top adds a creamy touch, though, on days when hunger eludes me, I gladly skip the milk altogether. My taste tests with various coffee roasts from different companies have revealed that sadly, I am not a connoisseur. I can discern subtle distinctions when sipping them side by side but that is about it. The brewing process, the amount of coffee used, and my mood at the time all seem to play a part in crafting that unique cup of coffee for the moment.

Tea, on the other hand, holds a special place in my heart as the ultimate comfort drink. A precise combination of tea leaves and water, brewed at the right temperature, creates a sublime experience that I thoroughly enjoy. I prefer my tea without any milk, relishing the pure essence of the tea leaves. However, if milk must be added, the village-style ‘chai’ steals my affection, generously infused with milk and accompanied by a piece of jaggery on the side. As for the British tradition of adding a few drops of milk to tea, we villagers humorously call it “poor men’s tea,” recognizing the contrast in flavours and traditions.

In the end, whether it’s the invigorating allure of coffee or the comforting ritual of tea, my choice depends on the weather, my mood, and the simple joys each beverage brings to my life.

Enjoying every sip, savouring the moment, living mindfully in the present. That is what I strive for.