What is this and what is it for?

[Beaver]

I was gifted this by an aquaintance.

I have no idea what these little black things are or what you do with them.

 

Does anyone know?

[VJM]

Chinese tea called "Pu Erh".  Put the cake of tea leaves in a tea pot.

[JR 500系]

Yes indeed, though I wont not recommend putting the entire cake into a pot first, since you might not like the intensity and flavour... perhaps taking a few teaspoons full and putting into a mug with hot water to test it out might be more ideal?  🙂

[Beaver]

Thank you both!

 

I had also received some loose green tea in modern packaging so did not expect more tea. My guess was some sort of herbal seasoning.