#Different variety of Chai

[kulharchai]

A Beginner’s Guide to Brewing the Perfect Cup of Chai.

If you’re a fan of traditional Indian beverages, you’re likely familiar with chai, or Masala Chai. This delightful blend of tea leaves, spices, and milk has been enjoyed for centuries, not only in India but around the world. If you’re new to chai, fear not! In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to brew the perfect cup of chai. From selecting the right tea leaves and spices to measuring the ingredients and boiling the water, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started on this journey to brewing the perfect cup of chai.

Selecting the Right Tea Leaves: The first step in brewing the perfect cup of chai is to choose the right tea leaves. While you can use any variety of black tea leaves, Assam tea leaves are the most commonly used in chai. Assam tea leaves have a robust and strong flavor that makes them ideal for chai. You can also use Darjeeling tea leaves or a blend of Assam and Darjeeling tea leaves.

Choosing the Right Spices: The next step is to choose the right spices. The most commonly used spices in chai are cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. These spices add flavor and aroma to the chai. However, don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices, such as fennel, nutmeg, or black pepper. For the best flavor, use fresh spices and grind them just before use.

Measuring the Ingredients: The next step is to measure the ingredients. For one cup of chai, you’ll need one teaspoon of tea leaves, one-fourth teaspoon of ground spices, and one cup of milk. You can adjust the amount of tea leaves and spices based on your taste preferences. If you like your chai strong, add more tea leaves. If you prefer less spicy chai, use fewer spices.

Boiling the Water: Now it’s time to boil the water. Boil one cup of water in a saucepan or a kettle. Once the water starts boiling, add the tea leaves and the ground spices to the water. Boil the tea leaves and spices for a minute or two to release their flavor. Be careful not to over-boil the tea leaves as it can make the chai bitter.

Adding the Milk and Sweetener: After the tea leaves and spices have been boiled, it’s time to add one cup of milk to the saucepan or kettle. You can use any type of milk, such as cow’s milk, soy milk, or almond milk. Add sweeteners such as sugar, honey, or jaggery to the chai based on your taste preferences. However, be careful not to add too much sweetener as it can overpower the flavor of the chai.

Straining and Serving: Once the milk is added, let the chai simmer for a few minutes. Strain the chai into a cup using a strainer. Your perfect cup of chai is now ready to be served. You can serve the chai hot or cold, depending on your preference.

Experimenting with Variations: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with variations to the basic chai recipe to create your own unique blend. You can add spices such as saffron, rose petals, or mint to the chai for a different flavor. You can also add different types of milk or sweeteners to the chai to create a different taste.

Serving in Traditional Kulhars: For an authentic touch, serve your chai in traditional kulhars (clay cups). Not only are kulhars eco-friendly, but they also enhance the overall experience of drinking chai. If you don’t have kulhars, you can use glass or ceramic cups to serve the chai.

Brewing the perfect cup of chai is easy with the right ingredients and steps. Experiment with different tea leaves and spices to find your perfect blend. Enjoy a cup of chai In the morning or afternoon for a refreshing and healthy beverage. Remember to use fresh ingredients and measure them accurately for the best results. And if you are interested in starting your own business, consider a Kulhar Chai franchise for an authentic and refreshing experience that your customers will love.

[thegloomybat]

Zero

I have sooo many low calorie food brands, but time for a ZERO calorie edition

Idk how i NEVER see posts about walden farms, they literally have almost EVERYTHINGG FOR ZERO CALS!!! BUT, be wary bc some of their stuff aren’t that tasty. I’ve tried the honey dijon dressing, which i’ve never even tried the normal ones and it was actually super good! I didn’t like the ranch dressing. I also tried the chipotle ranch one it was also good! Again BUT, one of the ingredients i found in those is titanium dioxide, which can cause cancer. Obviously i feel like that’s in insaneee amounts, so moderation is key🤷‍♀️ i’ve also tried their coffee creamers, chocolate, pumpkin spice, hazelnut, peppermint mocha, vanilla, and lemme just say at first i was kinda like yikes… but then i got used to it and its actually super good! I would recommend to only use a little cuz i accidentally put a lot one time and it was just WAY too much. Again, moderation. I haven’t tried any other products that i can remember so lmk if you guys try any of them!! Btw these only show the categories there are so many varieties.

Syrup, i haven’t used this and it’s just a tad pricey, but looks good and i would like to try for my coffee! If i get this i’ll do a lil review.

I LOVEEEE chai lattes but they are SO calorie dense. This one is 0!!! And it’s honestly pretty sweet for me, for it being sugar free. Like its the perfect amount. Idk, sugar free items taste exactly the same or even better than the original personally, and feels better bc if i eat any sugar i feel so gross. Maybe i���ve just gotten used to it or something but yeah

Last but not least the classic ol’ diet coke. So yummy keeps you full for a while/curbs appetite and tastes the same if not better than the original. Again, i normally prefer sugar free stuff bc it tastes better in my opinion, it doesn’t taste any different or worse. And normal coca cola has like 30g of sugar that is CRAZY. Also way too many cals.

Again, i found all of these items on the walmart WEBSITE, including a lot of the walden farms products. But some may charge shipping so maybe try finding it on amazon but keep scrolling to find the cheapest options. I <3 zero cal foods

[luxlightly]

"Saying 'chai tea' is silly! You wouldn't say 'tea tea'!"

Except that yes we absolutely would and do, frequently, use words that mean the same thing to specify a specific variety of that thing. It doesn't even have to be two different words. A "fancy party' and a "fancy fancy party" are two different things. This is a common thing in English and, so far as I'm aware, many other languages as well.

(I believe there is a specific term for this ligual quirk but I do not remember it and can't find the big post I saw one time explaining it.)

[ask-barbatos]

While the purity of Camellia Sinensis is a marvel in itself, the world of tea extends far beyond the simple leaf that is often called a True Tea. Let's talk about flavor-infused tea.

Infused tea

The practice of infusing tea with flavors dates back centuries, with evidence of flavored teas found in ancient Chinese and Indian cultures. Early methods of infusion involved adding herbs, spices, or flowers directly to the tea leaves during steeping. Over time, more sophisticated techniques were developed, such as extracting essential oils from aromatic plants and adding them to the tea.

Today, infused teas are typically created using one of two methods:

Direct Infusion: The most common method involves adding dried herbs, spices, or fruits directly to the tea leaves before steeping. This allows the flavors to infuse naturally into the tea, creating a harmonious blend.

Flavoring Oils: Essential oils extracted from aromatic plants can be added to the tea after steeping. This method allows for precise control over the intensity of the flavor and can be used to create subtle or bold infusions.

One of the most renowned flavor-infused teas is Earl Grey, a black tea infused with the fragrant oil of bergamot orange. The citrusy notes of bergamot dance harmoniously with the rich, full-bodied flavor of black tea, creating a truly exquisite beverage. Earl Grey is a versatile tea that can be enjoyed hot or iced, and it pairs well with a variety of foods.

Aside from Earl Grey, the world of flavor-infused teas is vast and varied. From the delicate floral notes of jasmine tea to the bold fruity flavors of berry teas, there is a flavor combination to suit every palate.

Pictured above: (top) Jasmine infused green tea from Fujian Tea Import & Export Co., (bottom) Blood Orange herbal tea from Harney & Sons Fine Teas. [Blend: Apple pieces, rose hips, hibiscus, beetroot, orange peel, orange flavor, marigold petals, safflower petals.]

Some of the other popular flavor-infused teas include:

Jasmine Tea: A green tea infused with jasmine flowers, offering a delicate floral aroma and a slightly sweet taste.

Chai Tea: A black tea spiced with cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, creating a warm and comforting blend.

Fruit Teas: A variety of teas infused with fruit flavors, such as strawberry, raspberry, or peach, providing a sweet and tangy taste.

Fruit teas are excellent for cold-brewed iced tea. I will cover cold-brewing later, so please look forward to that.

When choosing a flavor-infused tea, consider your personal preferences and the occasion. A delicate floral tea might be perfect for a relaxing afternoon, while a bold and spicy chai tea could be a comforting choice on a cold day.

The choice of infusion depends on the desired flavor profile and the characteristics of the ingredients being used. For example, delicate floral flavors may be best achieved using direct infusion, while strong, bold flavors can be created using flavoring oils.

If you wish to create your own infused tea, that will have to be a separate post. For now, it is enough to be able to identify the tea you are brewing so that you can handle it appropriately.

Brewing infused teas requires a balance of technique and intuition. First, identify the ingredients. When brewing a cup of tea, it's good to know what temperature and length of time to steep your tea for.

A tea labeled "Peach" may be a white tea with peach flavoring, and it may be best to brew it at a temperature appropriate for white tea. Blends may consist of varying ingredients that require different temperatures, so some experimentation may be in order to find the best brewing temperature to get the most of each flavor.

Herbal tea

Beyond the True Tea, there lies a world of herbal teas, each offering a unique blend of flavors and health benefits. Herbal teas are made from a variety of plants, including herbs, spices, and fruits. They are often enjoyed for their medicinal properties, as well as their delicious taste.

As no part of an herbal tea contains the Camellia Sinensis plant, these teas are not considered "True Teas". That does not mean we cannot enjoy them, however.

For the most part, an herbal tea will not contain any caffeine, unlike the tea produced from the Camellia Sinensis plant. This makes them more suitable to enjoy in the evening or late hours.

Pictured above: (from top to bottom) Roses, honeysuckle, chrysanthemums, mint and lavender.

Some popular herbal teas include:

Chamomile Tea: Made from chamomile flowers, this tea is known for its calming and relaxing properties.

Peppermint Tea: Made from peppermint leaves, this tea is refreshing and aids digestion.

Ginger Tea: Made from ginger root, this tea is warming and can help soothe an upset stomach.

Hibiscus Tea: Made from hibiscus flowers, this tea has a tart, fruity flavor and is rich in antioxidants.

As with many blends, it is helpful to experiment a little with the temperature and steep time to get the most of your tea. Intuition will follow experience.

The ideal steeping temperature for infused teas and herbal teas can vary depending on the specific ingredients and desired flavor intensity. However, here are some general guidelines:

Delicate floral or fruity teas: 175-185°F (79-85°C)

Bold, spicy teas: 195-212°F (90-100°C)

Herbal teas: 175-212°F (79-100°C), depending on the specific herbs used

Serving suggestions: Cream is usually not served with fruit teas, as the acidity in some will cause the milk to curdle. Lemon slices are commonly served with Earl Grey, however, as with the fruit tea, lemon can also cause cream to curdle. Sugar or honey are appropriate for nearly any tea.

It's always a good idea to experiment with different temperatures to find the perfect brew for your taste. I hope this has been informational and helpful to my students who wish to become better acquainted with tea.

[girlypopbops]

A girly pop's guide to hosting an at home coffee shop day ⋆౨ৎ˚⟡.•

Between the social appeal of coffee shops and the delectable treats and beverages they offer, a coffee shop date is always a go-to with friends. Sometimes I wish I could take all my friends out for coffee at once, but coffee shops aren't built to accommodate that. However, you know what is? Your own home! Recreating a coffee shop at home is a fun way to host your friends and enjoy all the luxuries of a coffee shop.

Here’s my idea for the perfect setup and execution for an at-home coffee shop gathering:

The Setup:

⋆˙⟡ On a large counter, island, or table, setting up a cute tablecloth and doilies for your coffee machine is essential.

⋆˙⟡ Have various coffee mugs and glasses neatly arranged for your guests to use.

⋆˙⟡ Additionally, have small, cute jars with various sugar packets, little spoons, and straws (glass ones are eco-friendly and aesthetic! Paper straws are also an adorable way to add pattern and character to the drinks).

⋆˙⟡ Ask everyone to bring their own milk or creamer. This way, everyone's preferences and allergies are accommodated, and it’s also a great opportunity to try different milks and creamers. The drink options are endless—like an open bar, but for coffee!

⋆˙⟡ Depending on your coffee machine, have coffee beans, pods, or similar items in a container tied with a ribbon. You can also include chai or matcha for variety.

⋆˙⟡ Embellish the table with flowers and other miscellaneous trinkets to add character.

⋆˙⟡ For pastries, a cake stand is ideal for displaying treats, but a cute plate with a patterned napkin underneath also works.

⋆˙⟡ Baking the pastries together can be a fun activity to add to the event, if you choose!

⋆˙⟡ Creating a fake menu to put on the wall is a sweet addition and ties the event together!

Activities:

⋆˙⟡ Crafting: Everyone can bring their preferred craft supplies or you can provide collaging materials. Chat, craft, and sip!

⋆˙⟡ Book Club: Have everyone read the same book before the event so you can discuss it over a cute beverage.

⋆˙⟡ Coloring: Similar to crafting, guests can bring their favorite coloring books or you can print out coloring sheets that match the day’s theme, like a coffee shop coloring sheet.

(This can even become a monthly ritual to catch up with friends, set new monthly goals together, or even align with moon phases!)

Ambiance:

⋆˙⟡ Music: Play upbeat tunes, as real coffee shops always have lively music! I’ve attached a playlist that might fit the event below.

⋆˙⟡ Visuals: Have something on the TV or a projector (preferably with the sound off). This could be a girly movie, a visually appealing YouTube video, or even a fake yule log.

⋆˙⟡ Lighting: Lots of natural light is a must. Additionally, candles and warm-toned lamps will make the space cozy.

⋆˙⟡ Seating: A table setup for guests is ideal, but you can also arrange pillows for alternative seating. If possible, set the table with placemats, a stack of books, and a flower vase in the middle. Tea light candles and scattered dried fruit or flowers will add a gorgeous touch.

Attire:

⋆˙⟡ Encourage everyone to dress cozy and cute! Having a similar vibe will really bring the event together. You can include this in the invite (digital invites are cute and make the event feel more special).

[a-sweet-desperate-softie]

Yooo can we get a storytime on that wetting pretty please with a cherry on top

Haha, sure! Because you said please, of course 😉

I'll start off by saying it wasn't a particularly memorable wetting in the grand scheme of things, but I'll do my best to be a descriptive and nuanced as I can be; it's the way I most enjoy to write these days and the pants wetters at large seem to enjoy it 🥰

***READ THIS*** I am only describing my experiences. I have spent years reading, practicing, and studying how to "play" safely. BY NO MEANS am I suggesting that you take anything that I say as instruction, direction, or anything of the sorts. Please, please, please, read about how much water/fluids are safe to consume in a given time period. ***PLAY SAFELY***

Context

I've been thinking a lot about the variety of sensations that I experience when holding/wetting and the ways in which different beverages cause my bladder to respond in distinct and manipulatable ways. For example, water is surely my favorite thing to hold. There are no irritants and it is not a diuretic, so therefore all you can really do to adjust your experience by drinking only water is control/effect how much you drink, how often you drink it, and how much and how often you're allowed to relieve yourself. Water is what I started with when first exploring omo and it is my control for all intents and purposes. There's nothing like having a bladder filled to the brim with little to no irritants rushing along the process. To quote Dr. Emily Nagoski, if "pleasure is the measure," then the pleasure of (safely) holding nothing but water and food is unmatched.

But yesterday I had a schedule I was keeping to. Sooo, I thought it might be fun to fill up decently with water and then see what would happen if I had some strong diuretic/irritant heavy beverages to see how it would feel to go from holding comfortably to an onslaught of irritation-based desperation. I've recently made the switch from traditional brewed coffee (usually iced/cold brew) to hot chai tea as my primary caffeine source. While coffee surely was a diuretic (and not in the fun, omo kind of way...), the chai I've been drink (Blue Lotus) just makes me have to pee, IMMEDIATELY. Like, for the last few weeks I've been rather quite on here because before I can even think about maybe holding, I already peed twice and feel like I need to go again. So, since my whole sexual journey has largely been shaped by my insatiable imagination thinking up wild, "un-winnable" situations and challenges for me to find pleasure in I thought, hey, fuck me up, Florida, I'll try it.

Story

After feeling the first wave of desperation crash through my body, I knew I could really start fucking with myself. I decided I would have one more big glass of water, then a hard iced tea (5% abv), then a really strong cup of chai with some extra honey to help it go down even quicker 🤤 With the first wave of desperation behind me, I had probably about 30 minutes before I could expect the next, as long as I stayed focussed.

Most of my wetting experiences have taken place in the bathroom, but since I had the place to myself, I decided that I'd try some more situational play.

I MUST keep my pants on.

I MUST keep them zippered and buttoned all the way up.

I MUST keep my belt exactly as it is.

I MUST keep washing the dishes until UNTIL I've leaked, THEN

I MUST put the front window shade all the way up, and

I MUST be visible through that front window as I wet myself.

I was wearing all dark clothing, and the front window is a long way back from the street/sidewalk, so I wasn't really risking being seen more than I was forcing myself to FEEL as though I could be seen. But ignore that if you'd rather imagine my in some cute pastel colors which all get SO DARK at even the smallest little leak.

Jumping ahead 25/30 minutes; I am feeling FULL, and I've finished both the hard iced tea and chai...

So there I was, scrubbing away at some dishes with warm water flowing freely down then length of my fingertips when I felt a gas bubble building. Let me tell you... I have never been more worried that my bladder was just going to collapse in on itself then I was when I tried to pass that little gas bubble! Oh. My. LORD!

The nerve clusters in my pelvic floor are SO well trained. Like, not for nothing, I've routinely done kegels for close to 20 years, can fully separate the sensations and experiences of orgasm and ejaculation (AMAB), and have enjoyed challenging myself with various styles/forms or edging, orgasm control, anal/prostate play, THE WORKS. However, my bladder was at it's limit, and everything felt so intense that I just couldn't make sense of the sensations and distinguish them in a way that I could confidently let that little fart out without risking absolutely flooding my pants.

So, I took a deep breath, gently pressed on my tummy a little above my bladder, and finally, the fucking tiniest amount of gas passed from me, and I was still dry!

Now, for anyone who is familiar with that particular sensation—the feeling of relief on your bladder as the pressure the gas had been providing is finally relieved—but it makes me feel as though I can hold forever, lol. Suddenly, I went from what felt like a 9.5, mere seconds away from uncontrollably wetting myself, down to what felt like 4!

But that relief only last so long...

Within 3 minutes, I went from that 4, RIGHT BACK TO A 9.

It was unreal.

I RAN to the window and through the shade up, stood back so I could stretch my arms up over my head and place each hand against the top of the door frame I was standing in. As I reach my arms up, I could feel the space in my tummy being stretched upward, and like everything that can stretch, as something gets longer, the volume gets narrower (we're all just fleshy rubber bands, people). As my tummy elongated, the pressure against the front of my bladder finally pushed it to it's limit.

I wish I could remember what the wetting itself felt like, but my adrenaline was so off the charts than it just felt like I was in a haze. Either way, I THOROUGHLY enjoyed myself. :)

Long story short, I wanted to be able to enjoy being full, enjoy the sensations of pleasure and desperation building from my toes up, through the shivers and squirms, gasps and grabs. But I also didn't want to have as much control at the end as I usually do. When I'm just holding water I can make that last portion of a hold—the imminent wetting—last for pretttty long, and rather than rapid desperation where I get too ahead of myself and don't allow myself to enjoy the hold as much because I can't wait for the wetting, adding the irritants/diuretic at the end seems to be a really wonderful and hopefully repeatable way to get the best of both.

[najia-cooks]

[ID: Five large, enclosed bao piled on a plate. The topmost bao has been opened to show a bread-like dough texture and a vegetable filling. The bao are garnished with chopped chives. End ID]

Bánh bao chay (Vietnamese vegetable dumplings)

Bánh bao are an iteration on the Chinese da bao (大包) brought to Vietnam by Cantonese immigrants. Like da bao, bánh bao are commonly filled with some combination of minced meat, Chinese sausage, and hard-boiled eggs; however, some versions of bánh bao are also made with Vietnamese vegetables, herbs, and flavorings. Vegetarian bánh bao (bánh bao chay) may have no filling, a filling consisting of a variety of vegetables, or a filling of sweetened beans or sweet potato.

This recipe combines Vietnamese vegetables, herbs, spices, and sauces with Vietnamese meat substitutes to make a well-rounded filling that's equal parts umami and fresh. The yeasted, enriched dough is tasty, fluffy, and light, but still has enough structure to hold up against the filling.

Recipe under the cut!

Patreon | Tip jar

Makes 16-20; serves 6.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

4 cups + 2 Tbsp (500g) all-purpose flour

2 tsp (7g) active dry yeast

7 Tbsp (90g) granulated sugar

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp (10g) baking powder (optional)

2 Tbsp (16g) cornstarch (optional)

1 - 1 1/4 cup (135-295 mL) lukewarm soy or oat milk, or water

1 Tbsp cooking oil

The basic components of this dough are flour, yeast, sugar, salt, oil, and milk. The baking powder is added to help with leavening; the cornstarch works to create a light, fluffy dough that will not become soggy when filling is added.

For the filling:

1 large carrot (100g)

4-inch piece (120g) cassava root / yuca

1 cup (100g) shiitake or wood-ear mushrooms, diced

4 large pieces (50g) sườn non chay, or 1/2 cup diced or crumbled chả lụa chay

1/2 cup water + 1/2 tsp vegetarian 'chicken' broth concentrate (optional)

50g tofu skin (đậu hủ ky)

1 red onion, minced

5 cloves garlic, chopped

4-5 chives or scallions, finely chopped

1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp sugar, or to taste

1/2 tsp salt, or to taste

2 tsp bột nêm chay, ground to a powder (optional)

1 1/2 tsp fermented bean paste + 1/2 tsp light soy sauce (or 2 tsp vegetarian fish sauce)

2 tsp vegetarian oyster sauce

1/4 cup soybean oil, peanut oil, or other cooking oil, divided

Sườn non chay (roughly, “vegetarian ribs”) is a meat replacement made of textured soy protein. It may be found in bags online or in the pantry / dried goods section at your local Asian grocery store—the bags will be labelled “sườn non chay” as well as “vegan meat slice,” “textured soy bean protein,” “vegetarian food,” or “vegan food.” Most sườn non chay are large and pale in color, but they sometimes come in "beef" or "pork" styles—the difference is not the flavoring but rather the size, shape, and coloring of the pieces. In my experience, the "beef" ones are more darkly colored, and both "beef" and "pork" styles are smaller in size and thinner in shape than the non-specific ones, which I often use to replace chicken.

Chả lụa chay is a vegetarian version of a Vietnamese pork sausage. It can be found in the form of a large loaf in the refrigerator section of a Vietnamese or Asian grocery store. It will be labelled "chả lụa chay" or "gio lụa chay," as well as "vegetarian pork roll," "wheat meat," or "vegetarian food."

Đậu hủ ky, or tofu skin, is prepared by taking the film off of a batch of tofu as it sets. Tofu skin may be purchased fresh or dried, in sheets or in sticks: for the purposes of this recipe, any kind will work! Chinese tofu skin produced for sale abroad may be labelled "dried beancurd sticks."

Bột nêm is a Vietnamese seasoning sold in powder or granule form. Vegetarian ("chay") versions of the seasoning may contain shiitake mushroom, lotus seeds, carrots, tomatoes, and kohlrabi, as well as salt and MSG. It can be purchased in pouches or boxes from an Asian grocery store, or you can use any other vegetable stock powder.

Fish sauce and oyster sauce are common inclusions in pork fillings for bánh bao but are often simply omitted from vegetarian ones. I've used vegetarian substitutes for these ingredients—if you don't have vegetarian imitation fish or oyster sauce, just increase the amount of salt, sugar, and bột nêm to taste.

Instructions:

For the dough:

1. Heat 1 cup (135mL) non-dairy milk to lukewarm in a saucepan or in the microwave. Stir in the yeast to dissolve. if you’re not sure your yeast is alive, proof it by allowing to stand for 10 minutes—it should foam.

2. Add the baking powder, sugar, and salt and whisk to dissolve.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch. Pour in the milk mixture and mix well to combine. Add additional milk 1 tsp at a time if it remains too dry to combine. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.

3. Add oil and knead by hand until dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place for about 3 hours until doubled in size. If you live in a cold climate and don't have a proofing drawer, heat your oven on the lowest setting for a few minutes, turn it off, and then proof the dough in the oven.

For the filling:

1. Prepare the proteins. Soak the tofu skin (if you're using dried) and sườn non chay in cool water for about half an hour until rehydrated (or simmer them for a shorter amount of time). They are fully hydrated once flexible and a couple shades lighter. Gently squeeze the water out. Dice tofu skin; rip sườn non chay into small pieces lengthwise and then dice widthwise.

2. Prepare the vegetables. Peel cassava root and carrot. Cut both into a fine julienne, or grate them. Dice the mushrooms; mince the red onion; chop the garlic.

3. Cook the filling. Heat oil in a large skillet on medium. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.

4. Add the red onion and continue to sauté until fragrant and slightly softened. Add black pepper, bột nêm, and salt and allow to cook another 30 seconds.

5. Add carrot, cassava, mushrooms, chả lụa chay (if using), and tofu skin and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring often, until tender. Remove from pan.

6. If using sườn non chay: in the same pan, fry sườn non chay in 3 Tbsp of cooking oil on medium until they’ve absorbed the oil. Whisk 'chicken' stock concentrate into a small amount of hot water, then add the stock into the pan. Cook until mostly dry.

Soaking in water, deep frying in oil, then simmering in a flavored broth is the typical Vietnamese preparation of sườn non chay. The simmering in stock could potentially be skipped if you're including vegetarian oyster and/or fish sauce, but personally I find that dried soy products benefit from being soaked or simmered in something other than water.

7. Mix sườn non chay in with other filling ingredients, salt, sugar, sauces, and chives.

To assemble:

1. Turn dough out from its proofing bowl and gently divide into two even parts. Cover the half you're not using and gently roll the other out into a log of even width. Use a dough cutter or sharp knife to divide the log into 8 or 10 even pieces.

2. Place each disc of dough on its side and roll it out into a circle about 5" (13cm) in diameter. The edges of the circle should be much thinner than the center, since the edges will be bundled up and folded together.

3. The folding method is the same as for baozi and momos. Hold a wrapper in the palm of your non-dominant hand and add a couple tablespoons of filling (if you’re not experienced with making dumplings, it may be easier to add less). While pressing the filling down with your non-dominant thumb, use your other hand to pinch pleated folds in the dough all the way around the circle of the wrapper. Remove your thumb and make one last fold to close the bao. Pinch firmly at the place where all the pleats come together (where the drawstring would be if it were a drawstring pouch) and give a small twist to seal.

4. Set each finished bao on a small square of parchment paper on a baking sheet or in a steamer and lightly cover with plastic wrap or a light kitchen towel. Continue folding until you have formed all of the bao.

To steam:

1. Place a bamboo steamer in the bottom of a wok or large pot, and fill the wok with enough cool water to cover the bottom rim of the steamer by ½". If you've added baking powder to your dough, you may add a splash of vinegar to the water to help neutralise the dough's pH and combat yellowing of the dough.

If you’re using a metal steamer, tie a kitchen towel around its lid to prevent condensation from dipping back down onto the dumplings. Carefully place the bao, along with their parchment paper squares, into the steamer, leaving an inch or so between each one. They will expand as they steam!

If you don’t have a steamer, place a small bowl in the bottom of a wok or large, deep pan or pot. Place the dumplings, with their parchment paper squares, on a plate and place the plate on top of the bowl–the plate should fit inside your pot. Make sure that you can cover the plate and dumplings with a lid. If your lid is domed, there is no need for a kitchen towel, since the condensation will run down towards the outer rim. If your lid is flat, tie a tea towel around it just as you would with a metal steamer. Fill your cooking vessel with 2 or so centimeters of cool water.

2. Raise the heat to high and allow the water to come to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and cover your steamer or pot. Steam the dumplings for about 8 minutes, until the dough is tender and cooked through. Keep finished bao warm in a covered casserole dish in an oven on low while you steam the others.

[tulipsstudyblr]

How to Make it Through to the End of the School Year

I myself am pushing through to the end of my spring semester (gotta make it to finals week 😅) and it's rough, for sure. I'm rounding out my junior year of college and it's quickly hitting me that after this, I'll only have one more year left of school (as of right now).

I know I listed in the bio of this blog that there would be advice/study tips and while I am no expert, I can speak from my experience and what has worked for me. DIsclaimer: everyone is different and what I may or may not list here is not a cure-all for everyone, this is just how I stay productive and efficient.

Taking breaks! - I struggle a lot with recognizing my limits and taking healthy breaks so I can work best. Recently, a friend and I have been having outside study times ("picnics") where we sit and do some work and/or color. One evening, we even made chai lattes on the lawn to have while we colored. Personally, I love simple coloring books (like Disney, but I'm currently working in a Bluey book). Also, this past weekend, I made time in between my textbook readings to rewatch a favorite movie of mine, Ella Enchanted. I haven't taken the proper time to watch TV in a while, so it was a nice change of pace.

Properly eating and hydrating - This is also something I struggle with. I understand how easy it is to get hyperfocused and forget about food in the midst of studying. I am thankful to have a girlfriend who will check in on me when she can to make sure my water bottle is filled if I have been busy throughout the day, but I have also set an alarm on my laptop to ding every 20 minutes. I'm using the Google Chrome extension "Water Reminder", which has been super helpful for me! It's not super cutesy and aesthetic like other Chrome extensions, but I like the simple ding that reminds me to drink water in case I haven't in a while. Hearing a reminder to drink water also allows me to check in with myself to see how I'm feeling in terms of hunger. I try to schedule meals times specifically for myself so that I can remember to eat. Some people are really great about intuitive eating, but I am unfortunately not one of those people. Keeping track of the time and keeping meals times at 7:30 - 8:00 am (breakfast), 11:00 am - 12:00 pm (lunch), and 5:00 pm (dinner/supper), I find it easier to keep up with eating so that I can stay healthy and nourished.

Studying - probably a more obvious "tip", but with my own addition. I like to romanticize the idea of studying. I use specifically colored pens, marker, and highlighters to make each of my notes in class and outside of class to keep myself focused. I love things that are artsy and colorful, so using lots of colors keeps my attention on the material.

Self care - I love face masks, body lotion, and moisturizers. I can't afford the super expensive skincare that you see on TIkTok and Instagram, but I have found some products that work well for me. I like the non abrasive Neutrogena face wash, Nivea body lotion (with shea butter - this also helped heal my tattoos!), and peach slices acne patches (my current lifesavers). Freeman is a brand that makes some really good face masks that have worked for my somewhat senstiive skin and they have a good variety so that you can find what you may be looking for you. They're an inexpensive brand (I think) that works pretty well. Even my sister who is into cosmetology and skincare and knows all the nitty gritty details about what ingredients are good recommended the brand to me so I definitely love to use those when I can (no more than twice a week, though; no need to wear down my face)

Get a study buddy - if you're like me and you find it easier to be productive with another body around, see if you can find someone to study with you or to at least hang around you while you work. As I saif before, a friend and I have been having little picnics outside in the nice weather to work, but I have also met up with others in a library space or a study room to keep myself prodcutive. Some days, I am really productive on my own and in my room, but other days, I really need a change of scenery. Being outside of the space where my lovely bed is and having someone else bear witness to how productive or not I am being is certainly a motivator.

I may discover new habits that can help me as I progress through the next month, but as of right now, these are the main things that are helping me.

[misc-obeyme]

sometimes i think about the fact that barbatos is always inviting mc over to try new tea or always brews some when they have business at the castle

and then i think about the fact that I don't like tea irl... just agua de jamaica if that counts, and sweet tea mixed with lemonade 🤣

I wonder if it'd make him more eager to find one that you do like, or if he'd try to accommodate you if you really don't like it and serve something else.

Honestly, the way I am, I might've sucked it up for him and drank it anyway to not be rude ajsjdk. Like for example, I can't eat strawberries because the seeds throw me off texture wise, but my coworker/friend made me chocolate covered strawberries for Valentine's, and you best believe I managed to eat 2/4 because I wasn't about to turn down a gift LMAO

- ✨ anon

Yo of course agua de jamaica counts! As does the sweet tea mixed with lemonade (also known as an Arnold Palmer and also is good spiked with vodka~).

I have opinions on this lol. I make my own agua de jamaica, but it's kind of just whatever I thought sounded good so it's not exactly authentic. But the base is hibiscus tea. That is still very much tea. I cold brew mine with loose petals, a stick of cinnamon and a whole piece of star anise... and of course a ton of sugar and a lil bit of honey. But if you look it up, the recipes can vary greatly, but they all have hibiscus tea!

Sweet tea is the same thing - it's just black tea with a butt load of sugar.

I love them both and while I prefer the cold brew method, most traditional recipes call for brewing the tea hot first. And then chilling it in the fridge or with ice. Which is basically the exact same thing as regular tea - it's leaves that are steeped in boiling water. That part's the same!

The thing you might be liking about these two cold varieties is the sugar. Both of them have a high sugar content! So if you don't like drinking hot tea straight (as is often the method in the US), you might like it more if it was made into a tea latte or just had milk and sugar added to it.

I think Barbatos would probably start by trying different things. He might make you a matcha tea latte, which is also quite a different flavor. He might just make you some milk tea. I absolutely headcanon that Barbatos makes his own boba so you know he could just whip you up a bubble tea with boba at any time. Taro is my favorite flavor, but there are so many to choose from!

He might try just making you regular tea with milk and sugar added to it. He might try different blends - regular black tea is pretty boring, but add some cinnamon and cardamom (and other spices) to some Darjeeling and now you've got chai instead, which is delicious. Maybe he makes you a London Fog which is an Earl Grey latte. Maybe he goes with the green tea, which has a more subtle flavor. If you like agua de jamaica, you might like floral teas. Perhaps he gives you some jasmine green tea or some rose or lavender teas. These are all human world variants (because that is what I know... and yeah I know a lot about it lol), so he'd probably also try some Devildom types as well.

If you really don't like any of his offerings, I think he would make something different just for you. Barbatos cares a lot about MC's enjoyment of what he makes. So I don't think he'd want you to just power through something you don't like out of politeness. He would notice right away and call you out on it and then make you something else.

I think Barbatos might be able to find some other teas that you enjoy, but even if he never manages it, I think he would accept that.

He would just be sure to always have a batch of agua de jamaica or sweet tea and lemonade ready for when you come over.

[hongluboobs]

given that it looks like the family's been 'smooshed' to be closer together (Jia Huan going from half-brother to just a brother) my current theory is that Daiyu and Baochai are the younger sister and sibling mentioned (though I'm not sure which is which, ie. who was made NB).

I think Jia Huan remains a half-brother in Limbus!

He only has one line in this game, which I'll put here:

It makes sense to assume they're full brothers because Hong Lu calls Jia Huan "brother" but in the book Bao-yu still refers to Jia Huan as brother at some point. (I would go find this in the text but as you can imagine it is a PAIN to find the word brother in a 5 volume 2000+ page text)

Jia Huan's use of "your family" instead of "our family" is another clue! Because Book Jia Huan is a half-sibling via a concubine he isn't considered as much of a part of the family as a child by marriage like Bao-yu would be.

There's still some wacky stuff going on with Hong Lu's family, though! Limbus Jia Huan is an older brother, which is Interesting because he's a younger brother in the book.

(The clarification of age is only in the korean/japanese text, but it does exist!)

I'm going to bring up all the mentions of Hong Lu's sibling now, because there are a few (I may have missed some in the IDs, I don't have an easy way of checking them)

These tell us... Pretty much nothing that I can really go off of. The interesting thing is the first quote seems to reference a moment in the book where Jia Huan cheats at cards, but because he's an older brother now who knows.

Bao-yu does have both younger and older sisters in the text, and then his younger brother is Jia Huan but we've established he's the older sibling in limbus. Sister and younger sibling are both plural in the third example so there could be some compression of the family here but I don't have a lot to go off of.

I have NO idea what they are going to do with Bao-chai and Dai-yu because there's that awkward classic lit adaptation problem of "these characters are related, but at the same time their romantic entanglement is very important to the story. We are adapting this through a modern lens where it is not the 1700s and being engaged to your cousin is bad, actually!" and honestly? I don't want to make any calls until we for sure know more about their relationship. They could be going the full family angle for Hong Lu and retcon the marriage, or have it take place in a different part of the story where it hasn't happened, or similar.

In the text, Bao-chai and Dai-yu are Bao-yu's cousins, not siblings, and with the wedding being one of the most important scenes in the book I really have no idea what will happen. Hong Lu is described as a bachelor/unmarried in Limbus but honestly, I don't know if I believe him on that one. If they do retcon/not mention or adapt the marriage they could very well collapse parts of the family tree, I'm just relatively wary of if they Do Not do that.

A pet theory I've had is that the younger sibling could be Hong Lu's way of coping with his childhood through detachment. (as in: the younger sibling is Hong Lu, but the past Hong Lu who had to deal with Everything growing up). I don't really have proof for this aside from some small things in the book and thinking it'd be an interesting way for things to be adapted in Limbus. Bao-yu's childhood is already rough for a variety of reasons in the book, but putting him in the city would make everything much worse so I could see it happening. The use of "sibling" is so interesting because it's a deliberate choice to not gender it and so it could be anything!

Apologies for the wait on this one! I have school and work again and I haven't been as Hong Lu brained because I've been making my way through ruina again but it was fun to drop some stuff like this! I'm really curious to how they will adapt his family and honestly Red Chamber as a whole because it is so thematically rich and there's a lot of stuff you can tie to the themes of Project Moon's games!

[kulharchai]

Understanding the Basics and Benefits for Entrepreneurs To Choose Kulhar Chai Franchise

In the bustling streets of India, amidst the aroma of spices and the cacophony of everyday life, there’s a timeless tradition that has stood the test of time the snacking culture. From roadside stalls to modern cafes, chai holds a special place in the hearts of millions. Now, imagine being part of this rich heritage while also building a successful business. Enter Kulhar Chai, a brand that’s not just about tea but about an experience, a journey, and an opportunity for entrepreneurs to thrive. Today, we delve into the basics and benefits of choosing a Kulhar Chai Franchise, unlocking the doors to a flavorful and fulfilling venture.

Embracing Tradition with a Twist : Kulhar Chai takes the age-old tradition of chai drinking and snack experience to new heights. The brand’s unique selling proposition lies in its use of kulhars traditional clay cups to serve piping hot chai. This simple yet innovative approach resonates with customers seeking an authentic and eco-friendly experience. By choosing a Kulhar Chai Franchise, entrepreneurs align themselves with a brand that not only respects tradition but also embraces innovation.

The Power of a Strong Brand Identity : In today’s competitive market, brand identity plays an essential role in attracting customers and building loyalty. Kulhar Chai’s distinctive branding distinguishes it from the throng, making it easily recognized and memorable. Entrepreneurs who choose a Kulhar Chai Franchise profit from the strong brand identification, as they gain access to a pre-existing reputation for quality and authenticity. This reduces the time and effort required to start a new business, giving Franchisees an advantage in their business journey

A Proven Business Model : Success in the business world often hinges on having a solid foundation and a clear roadmap to follow. Kulhar Chai offers exactly that with its proven business model, honed through years of experience and market research. Franchisees receive comprehensive support and guidance every step of the way, from site selection and setup to operations and marketing. 

Tapping into a Lucrative Market : The demand for quality chai experiences is on the rise, fueled by a growing appreciation for artisanal beverages and cultural authenticity. Kulhar Chai taps into this lucrative market segment, offering customers an alternative to mass-produced tea chains. Entrepreneurs who invest in a Kulhar Chai Franchise position themselves at the forefront of this trend, capitalizing on the ever-increasing demand for unique and memorable dining experiences. It’s an opportunity to not only meet the needs of today’s consumers but also shape the future of the food and beverage industry.

Flexibility and Scalability : One of the key advantages of franchising is the flexibility it offers in terms of scalability and growth. Kulhar Chai Franchisees have the opportunity to expand their operations and explore new markets, either by opening additional outlets or diversifying their product offerings.

Whether it’s catering to different demographics, experimenting with new flavors, or exploring different formats such as kiosks or food trucks, entrepreneurs have the freedom to customize their Franchise according to their vision and goals.  Conclusion : Choosing a Kulhar Chai Franchise is not just about serving tea, it’s about embarking on a flavorful journey filled with opportunities for growth, innovation, and success. From its strong brand identity to its proven business model and flexible growth prospects, Kulhar Chai offers entrepreneurs the perfect blend of tradition and entrepreneurship. Take the first sip towards your entrepreneurial dreams with a Kulhar Chai Franchise today. For more information, you can check our website

[raushankinn12]

[diahsthings]

Obey me

Things I would do with each character.

Warnings: bad writing, fluff, ooc I guess. It's just some silly maladaptive daydreaming.

Lucifer

Listen to records. Don't think listening to his cursed ones are possible. Guess he's going to enjoy ABBA. Look I know it won't be his favorite but he will probably be intrigued because of how popular their music is. Use listening to music to have him dance with me. I have a large variety of records. Making out maybe to music. Enjoying a different side to him.

Mammon

Get in on schemes. Love to think of how to scam people but never do because I don't have the time or money. Chaos couple. I'm a hype person and will remind him how amazing he is. Shared adoration. He's my first and favorite. I fell in love almost as fast as he did. That soft personality just for me. He's gorgeous and sweet.

Levi

Have him help me finish every video game I'm stuck on. It's going to be awhile. Using the excuse to make him spend time with me. It'll give him confidence while I tell him how amazing he is at playing games. Nerd out over anime. Share our thoughts and eventually get him to cuddle. Then more as he gets comfortable.

Satan

Cliche but cat cafe. Love it. Get cute snacks and drinks then cuddle with cats. OMG please. Did it once and it was so much fun. Satan would die seeing a cat sleep in my lap almost the whole time. Then getting home letting him pout about not being able to have a cat. Stroking his hair as he lays his head in my lap. Bonus: I'm allergic to cats 😂

Asmodeus

I'm serious about skin care, hair care, and personal style. I would be out shopping and doing so much with him. I adore him. Giving a makeover might not work but I would let him do whatever he wanted and have fun with him. I think doing makeup and hair is intimate. It's a special bond. I don't let just anyone see me changing and telling me fashion or style advice. Sharing the latest tea with him. OMG the bond with him would be so strong. The trust.

Beel

I would have him eat and tell me about how it tastes. I have so many food issues that I just dream of eating these foods. That and tell him he's the greatest in the world. He's the biggest sweetheart ever. I'm such a simp for him. Cheering for him. Making sure he has snacks and carrying snacks with me. Cuddles with snacks while watching movies. Have to have a snack while watching movies. I can't watch without snacks.

Belphie

Stargazing while snuggling. I just want to lay in bed all day and enjoy the softest blankets, mattress, and pillows. And having such a handsome brat of a demon. So much cuddling. Playing my switch or reading. Slow kisses while running our hands over each other.

Diavolo

Take him to a Renaissance festival. Can you imagine the sheer amount of enjoyment he would have?!? Best dressed couple there. Biggest smile on his face. The excitement. Enjoying Diavolo's affection and relaxing as no one knows who he is. Spending as much time there as possible. Being able to act openly as a couple with no one watching him under a microscope. Finding a place to share some kisses.

Barbatos

Tea. Everything tea. I live in tea. Chai. Masala chai recipe. Bonding over my passion for hot leaf juice. Make him take us to my favorite tea places. (Nimrah bakery old city Hyderabad India). Enjoying one anothers company while sitting together cozy in cafes. Talking quietly with one another out of prying eyes. Stolen kisses and holding hands.

Simeon

Baking!! Work on finding the best gluten free food. I can't have gluten and it's just awful. But I want to bake with him so badly. Decorating cakes and cookies. Helping get icing off his lip. Seeing him blush from that. The debate it gives him.

Solomon

Go to occult stores and hear his opinion. Totally just want to make out with this one. Keep him from trying any magic spells. I just want to hear his interesting thoughts on things. Think he's hilarious. And enjoy teasing him back.

[blue-sterling0357]

Can I get a thing where Agni spends the holidays with his fem s/o? Maybe they meet her family?

(does the fact that it's feb stop me from writing this...No, it does not, because I was basically absent and into a horrible situation!!!!)

Agni and S/O spend the holidays!

✧ If there is one thing I wish to say as an Indian like him, is that we don't popularly used to celebrate Christmas as it isn't of our main religions' or Hindus' or Muslims'.

✧ Agni also being an Indian, probably didn't celebrate Christmas because many Indians don't follow Christianity, but they follow Hinduism or Islam, and since Christmas isn't a thing for Hindus or Muslims, but other than that there are other festivals too! Like the Diwali if it occurs in December, Ekadashi where Gods wake up and most marriages are recommended to be celebrated and karwachauth where the bond of a husband and wife is celebrated!

✧ Although, he doesn't celebrate Christmas, he will be willing to celebrate it with you, if you'd explain the Christmas traditions to him otherwise he'll ask Sebastian about it...

✧ He would love to bake cookies with you! He may not know, but he secretly has been practicing with Sebastian on how to make perfect Christmas flavoring cookies!!! He made a cranberry flavored one too!!!

✧ India has a huge variety of clothing material, so getting some good high quality material for Christmas sweaters is quite nice, though they won't have any designs though....But it's okay, cause he's happy!!!!

✧ He would love to play in snow, spending hours to create beautiful letters, messages, drawings and make things with it like castles and just try to make you smile!!!

✧ He will probably make you Indian sweets and if you ask him hard enough, he will put his cooking insecurities behind and make you some Victorian desserts as well!

✧ He would help you pick a Christmas tree and help you decorate it, and then you both end up buying two tiny ones and have a competition to see how will decorate their tree the best and as always Agni won, even Sebastian lost in front of him.....

✧ He will probably take you around the Indian city, bringing you chai and different treats to eat as you both walk around and spend time with each-other and later on you both end up dancing in a newly wedded couples dance show-room....He looked handsome in the lighting.....

✧ Soma would also love to spend Christmas with you and you both being menaces, with you teaching him Christmas rituals and all that and you both making a mess which is gonna give Agni a headache while he tries to clean the shit up....

✧ You teaching Soma how to sing Christmas carols and he tries his best, but he barely know how to pronounce the words correctly and when he does, he forgets the words, but it's okay cause it gets a laugh out of you and it makes Agni smile seeing you happy and laughing!

[crookedkingdomruinedme]

Kimchay in Hogwarts <3

Yes, I'm still stuck on my fic but here's a Kimchay Hogwarts AU.

Like I said in my last post, Kim's a Slytherin in a house full of Gryffindors (straight parallel to Sirius, who was a Gryffindor in a house of Slytherins) and Porchay is a Hufflepuff, just like his brother.

To make all characters fit in, let's just pretend that Kim's only a year older than Chay but they're in the same year as Kim rolled in late. So, both of them are in their 5th year. Chay's 15 while Kim just turned 16.

Kim's the lone wolf of 5th year. (Inspired by Regulus Black my beloved) and doesn't really interact much with anyone. Dubbed the Ice Prince due to his stunning looks but his cold face, he mostly stays to himself with his nose stuck in a book and does his things without bothering anyone. He's, obviously, a star here as well for his music, but it's always uploaded anonymously, and so far no one knows who actually Wik is. So yeah, he's more than a bit touch starved and very bad at actual student social interaction. He doesn't even talk to his brother/s at school at all due to the constant rivalry between Gryffindors and Slytherins (never mind the fact that he thinks Kinn doesn't even want to talk to him after his sorting). Vegas, for the most part, leaves him alone unless there are some "joint jobs" to do with Kim. Macau, being the annoying cousin he is, always seems to stick to Kim and disrupt his peace. But that's all anyone sees on the surface.

Porchay's the sunshine of 5th-year students. A chill guy who's fun to hang out with and never judging. Everyone knows him or has at least heard of him (just like everyone knows Kim but for exactly different reasons). He's famous for his kind personality and acceptance of all things weird(TM). He's comfortable with his sexuality and is a great help to students who just want to explore or talk about their gender/sexuality issues to someone other than an adult. An absolute Wik fan and always daydreaming about who the person could actually be. So yeah, he's comfortable in his lanky form, has a cool brother who's also a pain in his arse, helps around at the herbology garden whenever he can, and is a good tutor, even if he is not that extraordinary at studies. The other students are kind of freaked out by the two brothers. It's like they have twin telepathy with the way they understand each other by just looks.

Anygays, That's their background in the school.

Kim's a straight-A student, obviously. He's an extraordinarily strong wizard, being able to do a variety of spells that someone of his age shouldn't be able to. This just adds to the rumors that already surround him though, about how he's secretly a dark magic practice and stuff. He's on top of the class by a mile to the other students, untouchable even in his studies. The one class he thrives the most is Defense Against Dark Arts, it's as if he was born to do it. Ironic considering his overall image at school.

But of course, every smart student faces a challenge in at least one class, and for him it's Herbology. Even though animals absolutely adore him, it's as if these plants can't even look in his direction. It's frustrating him to no end. He's mad at himself too, how can a few plants hate him with such an intensity that they won't even come near his hands???

It's bad for his OWLs too, which he's already stressed enough about it as it is, he doesn't need saplings adding to it. He needs to pass this class damn it!

The worst part is that no one's willing to help him. He doesn't really have anyone to ask for help. He's 100% sure Kinn would walk the other way if he even comes close to him (he already averts his eyes whenever they see each other anyway). Macau's just as shit as him in caring for anything, no matter alive or not. Vegas doesn't even take these classes, and even if he did, Kim wouldn't go near him with a ten-foot pole. It's not really as if he has any friends, with students always walking the other way if he so much as comes close to them. And he gets it, okay? He absolutely does. He wouldn't go near himself if he could, either. But this also means he's stuck without any help and he's scared of falling behind in his classes and what Papa would do if he failed one.

Enter Porchay, An absolute god at Herbology but horrendously lacking in his Defence against Dark Arts skills. He also wants to pass OWLs with flying colors, if only to help his brother and make him proud. After all, Porsche passed with one of the highest scores of his age, and who is Porchay if not competitive?

It starts one evening when Porchay's helping Professor Sprout with arranging the new batch of seeds needed for the second semester when he sees Kim, sitting in one of the greenhouses and looking at a book with such fury Porchay was scared that it might just catch fire.

Of course, Porchay recognized him. Kimhan Theerapanyakul is a mystery to everyone in Hogwarts. A kid that didn't speak much but always seemed to look superior to anyone. Porchay has seen him around the school, and even shares a few classes with him, but has never talked to him. He's beautiful, Porchay thinks, vastly different from his two older Gryffindor brothers.

Shaking himself out of his thoughts, he asks Professor Sprout what Kim's doing here, to which she sighs and tells him how that kid just won't give up on this class even though he's on the verge of failing.

And hey, Porchay can respect a stubborn person with enough fire to keep going. It's when the professor goes on to say how he's got more than enough points from his DADA classes that a light bulb goes off in his head.

Porchay's always been a bit reckless, a trait shared between both the Kittiswat brothers. He knows and has heard about the different rumors surrounding the other boy, ranging from curious to borderline disturbing, but will he listen to them? No. He likes to make observations on people by himself, something that will eventually be his downfall, but for now, it's that curiousness that pushes him forward to stand behind the green-clad boy and tap his shoulders.

He interestingly notes how Kim didn't even flinch at the sudden contact but simply looks at him with an eyebrow raised.

For now, Porchay extends his right hand out for a handshake, smiles brightly, and says, "Hello, I'm Porchay, and I'd love for you to be my DADA tutor"