The British also like to be formal and dignified when they serve tea. While the Japanese serve green tea in small cups without handles, the British favor the black teas of India and Ceylon served in china cups with handles and matching saucers. In Britain, tea is made in a pot, using one teaspoonful of tea leaves for each cup plus one extra teaspoonful for the pot. Boiling water is poured into the pot, and the tea is left for about five minutes before the host pours for the guests. As in Japan, tea drinking is an important part of daily life in England. Many people drink tea several times a day, and they associate it with relaxation and entertainment. Sharing a cup of tea with guests provides an opportunity for conversation and a quiet moments away from the normal hustle and bustle.
Many interesting tea customs have developed over the centuries. In India, for example, you might drink tea with a lot of milk, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom. The Burmese soak tea leaves in oil and garlic and eat this mixture with drive fish. In Thailand, people chew tea leaves seasoned with salt and other spices. In Iran, perfumed tea is a favorite. It is made by leaving flowers or herbs in the tea container for several days. Morocco, tea is prepared in a brass or silver teapot to which sugar and mint are added. Then the tea is served in small glasses with mint leaves. If guests accept an offer of tea, they are expected to drink at least three glasses.
Regardless of where or how tea is prepared and served, many people consider it to be an important part of their social life. Having a cup of tea provides a reason for getting together and sharing a moment of conversation. Tea may no longer be considered a sacred cure for all illnesses, but it is a remedy for both the body and the spirit in our something frantic lives.