chompsky

Even here in Vancouver, where the weather seems to have switched with New York, a la Freaky Friday, some clouds have appeared to break up the incredibly monotonous sunshine. I suppose it’s the nature of being so far north that even when the days are astonishingly warm, as soon as the sun goes away a distinct chill takes over the air. And so it was last night, when, though the meteorological conditions were pleasant enough to enjoy frozen strawberry margaritas on our friends’ roof deck, whenever the sun disappeared behind a cloud it suddenly became sweater weather. There is only one remedy for this kind of fickle weather: a summer tisane. Warm enough to grasp tightly in a mug with cool hands, but fragrant of summer breezes.

Tisanes hardly need a recipe (but check out The Kitchn for a different take on it). Take some fresh herbs, a good large handful, and place in a teapot (or a French press, as I did.) Add water that is just before boiling–add boiling water and you might cook the herbs, which you don’t want. Let it steep for about five minutes. Don’t worry about it steeping too much as it sits in the teapot–it will get stronger, but not unpleasantly so.