Tag: Tea & Coffee

Both drinks are a surprising, health-giving elixir.

Under the Citadel’s Shadow: Savouring Erbil’s Soul

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes10 Comments

In the heart of Erbil, where modern life hums around an ancient hill, history still breathes through stone. The Erbil Citadel — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited places — rises above the city like a memory that refuses to fade. Beneath it, the Old Bazaar buzzes with life: men sip tea and smoke shisha under the autumn sun, children feed pigeons, and the aroma of kebabs drifts through narrow lanes once walked by traders and conquerors alike. Watching people enjoy these simple pleasures, time seems to dissolve — and you realize that in Erbil, the past and present are forever entwined.

Qazuan Restaurant: A Kurdish Dastarkhan in the Heart of Erbil

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey6 Comments

Erbil is a city that combines a rich historical background with contemporary living, exemplified by Qazuan Restaurant, famous for its genuine Kurdish dishes. An impromptu lunch with coworkers turned into a delightful culinary journey featuring tasty meals and a welcoming environment. The traditional ambience added to the experience, enabling a stronger cultural connection. After a short wait, the food exceeded expectations, reflecting Kurdish hospitality. The gathering promoted friendship, creating lasting memories and emphasising the strong ties that food fosters within cultures.

Refreshing Iced Matcha Latte in Erbil’s Heat

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey10 Comments

On a hot summer evening in Erbil, I sought shelter in a cool café and ordered an Iced Matcha Latte, intrigued by its unique appeal. The drink, made from ground green tea and milk over ice, offered a refreshing and intricate flavour. This beverage, steeped in history, represented a moment of tranquillity in the heat, highlighting the value of enjoying life's simple pleasures and finding peace amid the chaos.

Of Steam, Soul, & Sips: My Journey Through Iraq’s Chai Culture

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey15 Comments

In Iraq, I discovered that tea is far more than a mere beverage; it's a profound ritual, a sanctuary, and a quiet testament to resilience, much as it is in India. From the timeless charm of Baghdad’s Shabandar Café to the sun-drenched benches near Erbil’s citadel, each sip of tea tells a story. It's a reminder that many of life's deepest lessons, like a perfectly steeped glass, are infused slowly, revealing their wisdom gradually.

Qazwan & Kunefe: A Sweet Encounter in the Heart of Erbil

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey6 Comments

In December 2023, I visited Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, where I experienced its vibrant culture and culinary delights. A special highlight was discovering Qazwan, a traditional Kurdish hot drink made from wild pistachios. Paired with Kunefe, a sweet dessert, it created a memorable dining experience. This evening showcased Kurdish hospitality and rich flavors, revealing the region’s heritage.

Samovars: From Tradition to Modern Day Tea Brewing

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey4 Comments

On this International Tea Day, we are celebrating the samovar, a symbol of warmth, hospitality, and cultural significance in tea brewing. Originating from Russia, it is a multi-chambered device for boiling water, traditionally used for social gatherings. The samovar has evolved, with modern electric versions combining convenience and charm. Beyond brewing tea, it serves various practical purposes, embodying connection and shared experiences in homes globally.

Cha Dao: Embracing the Way of Tea

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey6 Comments

During a stay at Rose Villa Heritage Homestay in Takdah, we experienced the ancient art of Chinese tea brewing. Our host shared the profound ritual that transformed tea preparation into a meditative practice, emphasizing patience, mindfulness, and connection with nature. Through each step, we discovered that the ceremony reflected deeper life philosophies, revealing the beauty in simplicity and the significance of being present in each moment.

A Tea Lover’s Journey at Machko Chai Khana in Erbil

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes11 Comments

Erbil, the capital of Kurdistan, hosts the Erbil Citadel, one of the oldest inhabited sites globally. Inside its ancient walls, Machko Chai Khana tea house offers a cozy atmosphere and traditional Iraqi chai, rich in spices and history. The tea house embodies Iraqi hospitality, fostering connections among locals and travelers. A visit to Machko is essential for those seeking cultural and culinary experiences in Erbil.

The Gentle Symphony of Rain & the Comfort of Oolong

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey14 Comments

The author reflects on the calming experience of drinking tea, specifically oolong, on a rainy day. The tea, evoking feelings of peace and tranquility, is described as a perfect blend, with potential health benefits like weight management and improved heart health. The author notes the pleasure derived from this simple act, emphasizing the joy in appreciating the smaller, joyful aspects of life.

Takdah: Where the Mist Sings, the Hills Breathe, & Time Slows Its Pace

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes16 Comments

Takdah unfolded before us like a whispered secret—mist-draped hills, colonial bungalows, and a warmth that felt like home. At Rose Villa Heritage Homestay, the Lama family’s kindness wrapped around us as gently as the mountain fog. Our days flowed with quiet walks, fragrant tea, and stories etched into timeless landscapes. Takdah didn’t just soothe us—it changed us.