Playing around with tea blends is a good way to whittle the afternoon away in the kitchen. Here is a blend of chrysanthemum flowers, green cardamom, sliced almonds, fennel and cumin seeds. Steeped on its own or with a small strip of candied ginger dropped in to lend a touch of sweet spiciness, this blend is vegetal and smooth, reminiscent of cool green meadows and calming warm breezes. A little cup of tea beside you is a small luxury that seems to lengthen the day, giving you more time to curl up on the sofa with a good book.