Next to water, tea is the most consumed beverage worldwide. For me, it's the reason I get out of bed each morning. There's nothing like that first cup of the day.
It is the ritual of tea drinking that makes it so special - whether it's in a Japanese ceremony or over a sponge cake with friends.
Much of the world's tea originates from India, Sri Lanka and China, and even New Zealand is now producing its own, Zealong Tea, in the heart of Waikato. There are so many teas and blends worldwide, and we all have our favourites. Wonderfully, their unique aromas can also bring an aromatic edge to cooking.
Prawn and jasmine risotto may sound an odd combination, however, the subtle flavours of the tea will be a pleasant surprise. Play with the flavour by using a stronger or weaker tea. I use a stronger brew and, for the chicken stock, I add half water to ensure the jasmine flavour shines through.
