Can all teas be both steeped and boiled? Of course not. Some teas can become unpalatable when boiled. So, which teas are suitable for boiling, and which are best for Steeping? Compared to steeping, boiling allows the full release of a Tea's contents, resulting in a sweeter and richer tasting tea.
Which Teas Are Suitable for Boiling, and Which Are Best for Steeping?
Green tea should not be boiled.
It is an unfermented tea with delicate leaves. Boiling would destroy the vitamin C content and cause excessive Caffeine to seep out, turning the tea yellow and making it taste bitter and astringent.
Huang tea (yellow tea) should not be boiled.
Yellow tea must never be boiled. Its appeal lies in its freshness. Boiling with high water temperatures would ruin the delicate green tea, causing too much caffeine to be released, resulting in a bitter and astringent flavor.
Aged white tea can be boiled.
New white tea cannot withstand boiling. The most suitable for boiling are aged Gongmei or Shoumei teas. White Peony and Silver Needle, especially those containing tender buds, are not recommended for boiling.
Black tea can be steeped or boiled.
Black tea is a fully fermented tea with a warm nature. It can be drunk plain or with additions.
Aged oolong tea can be boiled.
Some oolongs with higher fermentation levels and a certain age, such as aged Wuyi rock tea or Tie Guan Yin, can be boiled.
Ripe Pu'er can be boiled.
The processing method of ripe Pu'er is similar to that of dark tea, and its nature is also mild, making it suitable for boiling.
Dark tea can be boiled.
Dark tea is a post-fermented tea typically made from coarser, older leaves. After prolonged pile fermentation, it develops a rich aroma and a mellow flavor. Boiling dark tea helps release its aroma and enhances its smooth and sweet taste.
Dried tangerine peel can be boiled.
As a “Herbal tea,” dried tangerine peel has a fragrant, slightly bitter yet sweet flavor, with a warm and fresh aroma. Whether boiled with tea, used in soups, or paired with rock sugar or jujubes, it makes for an excellent winter beverage.