A Traditional Cup of Tea

Known as "Geng Geng Kuah Teh" in Hokkien, this traditional tea was served in my Grandpa's house in the old days during Chinese New Year. It is refreshing to the taste and easy to prepare.

Dried longans and red dates.

At the back is our trusty "English-Chinese" calendar

for quick reference to important Chinese festivals

All you need are some dried longans and red dates. Remove the seeds and boil them until soft. You may add a little sugar to taste. Most of the time we don't add sugar as we find that the dates exude a natural sweetness. Red dates are an excellent source of iron and minerals and just boiling them and drinking the juice will help to improve anaemia.

This tea can be prepared any time to quench your thirst, not necessarily only during Chinese New Year. "Teh Tarikh" lovers will probably find that it lacks some "oomph" but give it a try anyway. You may even like it!

Incidentally, this tea is also made for wedding tea ceremonies where the bride and groom offer it to their parents and relatives.