Sweet Surprise-Apple Pie Paired with Herb Tea

Hi hivers. I’m sharing with you my little surprise gift, Marugoto Ringo Pai. I had it with some herb tea. I was home and relaxing with the family when I got a little package that I wasn’t expecting. With my brows slightly raised and with questions in my eyes, I checked the label to see where and whom it had come from. The first thing I noticed was the name of the sender, a very dear friend of mine. My raised brow disappeared, my eyes smiled and I felt an eagerness to see what was inside.

The other thing I noticed was that the package was mailed from Nagano, Japan. My thoughts all came together. My friend was on vacation in that area and decided to post me a gift directly from the location. How sweet! I was touched. The little package was so cute. It had a handle that fitted perfectly to my grasp. I couldn’t help but do a photo shoot. I turned the box in all angles and admired it.
From the labels and pictures, I could see that it was apple pie, baked apple with a crust. It was a unique-looking package. I gently opened it and then re-enclosed it. I didn’t want it to go too quickly.

My family had eyes on it for days and so did I. I made sure to check the expiry date. I learned that it’s a famous treat from Nagano. I have never been to that prefecture but it is known for quality apples among other produce. I often see fine quality grapes from that area as well. I would love to visit some farms there.

For making the pie, the apples are soaked in honey, filled with castella, covered with some form of dough and baked. I finally had to re-open the box as my family and I were basically salivating. We all needed a slice. What did we spy? A round, little apple pie. We cut it in two and then in four.

My boys were ready to have pie and just pie. I however thought I’d pair my slice with some herb tea. In my cupboard, I had honey bush, lemongrass and vanilla chamomile. I opted for the vanilla chamomile. While these weren’t my actual cups, the pie made me feel like going fancy. I enjoyed the tea and the lovely pie.

What beverage would you pair apple pie with?
Please comment below. 😃