Chinese people love tea - it's a huge part of their culture and history.
Not only do they grow lots of amazing sorts of tea, but they also have lots of secrets on how to brew it perfectly.
Here are a few tips that can help you brew tea like a Chinese tea lover!
Choosing the Right Tea
Different teas require different brewing techniques.
Whether it's green, black, oolong, or white tea, each type has its optimal water temperature and steeping time.
Warming the Teapot
Before brewing, warm the teapot by rinsing it with hot water.
This helps maintain the tea's temperature during brewing.
Tea Leaf Measurement
Use the appropriate amount of tea leaves for the specific type of tea.
This ensures a balanced flavor without overpowering bitterness.
Water Temperature Control
Pay attention to water temperature.
Green teas generally require cooler water, while black teas benefit from hotter water.
Boiling water might be suitable for some robust teas.
First Infusion Discard
For some teas, the first infusion is often discarded.
This quick rinse helps awaken the tea leaves and removes any impurities.
Short Steeping Times
Chinese tea is often brewed with short steeping times.
This allows for multiple infusions, each bringing out different flavors from the tea leaves.
Multiple Infusions
Many Chinese teas are designed for multiple infusions.
After the first steeping, continue to re-infuse the leaves, adjusting steeping times to extract varying flavors.
Tea-Ware Selection
The choice of teapot or gaiwan (lidded bowl) matters.
Different materials, like clay or porcelain, can influence the taste of the tea.
Match the tea with the appropriate tea ware.
Mindful Enjoyment
Finally, savor the tea mindfully. Appreciate the aroma, color, and taste.
Engage in the ritual of pouring and serving, creating a serene environment for enjoying each cup.
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