JCC E-Magazine May 2016

Lee-sensei demonstrating Teh Tarik to the guests

On Saturday, 16th April 2016, as part of our ‘The Way of Tea: Tea Culture of Singapore and Japan Exhibition’, we hosted a lecture and demonstration on ‘Singapore’s English Tea and Teh Tarik in Comparison with Japanese Tea’ together with Liu Xiang Tea Craft.

Liu Xiang Tea Craft, founded by Mr Lee Chee Keong (better known as Lee-sensei) is a centre of learning for contemporary Chinese Tea Art. Established since 1990, Lee-sensei’s intense passion for tea earned himself numerous opportunities to spread the beauty of tea craft around Asia and Europe.

The event began by a lecture from Lee-sensei regarding the local Teh Tarik. The beverage is a Malay term, which means ‘pulled tea’ and was originated from India. The beverage was said to have found its way to the Malay Archipelago during the colonial times. Lee-sensei further explained about the relations and differences between Teh Tarik and Japanese Tea.

Demonstrating the preparation of Teh Tarik, Lee-sensei mixed fragrant spices, black tea and condensed milk in a tea pot and transferred the liquid into a canister. Holding another empty canister, Lee-sensei poured and ‘pulled’ the tea back and forth until the surface was slightly frothy. The rich and aromatic beverage was then poured for the guests who were also treated to a side of Muruku (Indian spiced crackers).

Lee-sensei explaining Teh Tarik to the guests

Ms Naomi Giaretta demonstrating English Tea to the guests

Next was a lecture and demonstration of Singapore’s English Tea by Ms Naomi Giaretta. Hailing from the United Kingdom, Ms Giaretta explained the history of English tea where it was first introduced to an English merchant in China back in the 17th century, as well as a comparison between English Tea and Japanese Tea.

Traditionally brewing black tea with a teapot, Ms Giaretta invited guests who arrived early to sit around a makeshift ‘afternoon tea’ themed dining table. The table was set with beautiful English inspired tableware and traditional tea nibbles that guests had the opportunity to enjoy. The event was followed by an enlightening question and answer session.

Guests tasting Teh Tarik during the Lecture and Demonstration		Guests tasting Teh Tarik during the Lecture and Demonstration
Guests tasting English Tea during the Lecture and Demonstration		Guests tasting English Tea during the Lecture and Demonstration
Ingredients, side dish – muruku and utensils for Teh Tariks		Utensils for Teh Tarik
One of the side dishes for English Tea – Scones (traditional English treat)		Utensils for English Tea

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2016 will mark the 50th Anniversary of Singapore-Japan Diplomatic Relations