Chenpi aged Tea is one of the traditional Chinese health teas, blending the unique flavors and rich Health benefits of chenpi (aged tangerine Peel) and aged tea. Chenpi itself is a type of Chinese herbal medicine with properties that help regulate qi and strengthen the spleen, as well as moisten the lungs and dissolve phlegm. Aged tea, on the other hand, is cherished by tea enthusiasts for its mellow taste and distinctive aged aroma. So, how do you brew an authentic cup of chenpi aged tea? Let's explore this ancient skill together.
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The Origin and History of Chenpi Aged Tea
The origin of chenpi aged tea can be traced back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. At that time, people found that combining chenpi with aged tea could not only improve the bitterness of the tea but also enhance its medicinal effects. Over time, this combination evolved into a unique tea brewing method that has been passed down to this day. Today, chenpi aged tea has become a part of Tea culture, not just because of its delicious taste, but also due to its health benefits.
Selecting Ingredients Is Key: How to Choose Chenpi and Aged Tea
To brew good chenpi aged tea, it is essential to choose high-quality chenpi and aged tea. The selection of chenpi is very particular, usually preferring chenpi from Xinhui, Guangdong, with a long aging period, a reddish-brown color, and a strong aroma. As for aged tea, Pu'er tea is the most common choice, especially aged Pu'er, which has a mellow taste that blends perfectly with the aroma of chenpi.
Preparations: Necessary Steps Before Brewing
Before brewing the tea, some preparations need to be made. First, rinse the chenpi with clean water, then soak it in warm water for 10 minutes to allow it to absorb water and soften. Next, take an appropriate amount of aged tea and rinse it with hot water once to remove dust and impurities on the surface of the tea leaves while also awakening their aroma.
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Brewing Steps: Details Make or Break
1. Measure out the chenpi and aged tea: According to personal taste, measure out the appropriate amounts of chenpi and aged tea. Generally, about 5 grams of chenpi and 10 grams of aged tea are used.
2. Warm the teapot: Warm the teapot with boiling water, pour out the water, and add the chenpi and aged tea.
3. Brew: Slowly pour hot water at around 90°C into the teapot, filling it up to one-third full. Gently shake the teapot to ensure the tea leaves and chenpi come into full contact, then pour out the water. Pour hot water again, this time filling the teapot completely, cover it, and let it steep for about 5 minutes.
4. Serve: Pour the brewed tea into a fair cup, then distribute it into individual teacups to enjoy the unique aroma and mellow taste of the chenpi aged tea.
Health Benefits of Chenpi Aged Tea
Chenpi aged tea not only has a unique flavor but also offers various health benefits. Chenpi helps regulate qi, strengthen the spleen, moisten the lungs, and dissolve phlegm. Aged tea aids digestion, fat reduction, cholesterol lowering, and has antioxidant properties. When combined, they can help strengthen the spleen and stimulate appetite, clear heat and relieve summer heat, and moisten the lungs and stop coughs, making them particularly suitable for older people and those with weaker digestive systems.
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Precautions for Drinking Chenpi Aged Tea
While chenpi aged tea has many benefits, there are also certain precautions to keep in mind. First, those with weak spleen and stomach should not drink too much, as chenpi has a certain warming property. Secondly, pregnant and breastfeeding women should also exercise caution to avoid adverse effects on their bodies. Additionally, chenpi aged tea has a certain degree of stimulation, so it should not be consumed on an empty stomach to prevent discomfort in the stomach.
How to Store Chenpi and Aged Tea
Storing chenpi and aged tea requires attention to detail. Chenpi should be stored in a cool and dry place, avoiding direct sunlight and dampness to prevent mold and spoilage. Aged tea needs to be kept in a well-ventilated, dry area free from odors to avoid dampness and contamination by unwanted scents. Properly stored chenpi and aged tea not only retain their aroma and medicinal effects but can also gradually improve in quality over time.
Conclusion
Chenpi aged tea, with its distinctive aroma and rich health benefits, has won the affection of more and more people. Whether you're a tea enthusiast or someone pursuing a healthy lifestyle, you can enjoy the wonderful experience brought by this ancient skill through mastering the correct brewing methods. Hopefully, this article will help you better understand chenpi aged tea and encourage you to try brewing a fragrant cup of chenpi aged tea at home.