Brew Tea

Hello everyone! Today we're going to talk about a very special type of tea – Baihao Yinzhen brick tea. As the aristocrat among teas, its brewing method isn't something you can just do casually to get a great taste. But don't worry, follow me and you'll master this technique easily! (Image source: network, delete upon request) What is Baihao Yinzhen Brick Tea? Baihao Yinzhen brick tea is a type of white tea originating from Fujian Province, China. The tea bricks are made by compressing high-quality Baihao Yinzhen tea leaves, shaped like small round cakes. The silver needle leaves are named for their slender, needle-like shape and covered in white down. It has a unique fragrance and sweetness, along with many health benefits such as antioxidants and immune system boosting. Preparation: What Do You Need? Before brewing Baihao Yinzhen brick tea, let's take a look at what tools and materials we need: Baihao Yinzhen brick tea Tea knife or tea needle (for separating the tea brick) Teapot or gaiwan Teacup Sieve (optional) Pure water Tea tray or serving tray These tools will make it easier for us to enjoy the deliciousness of the tea while also protecting the quality of the…

The Laba Festival is almost here, which also means that the Spring Festival is about to kick off, with the festive atmosphere growing stronger day by day. Bid farewell to the old year with bowls of Buddha porridge and welcome the New Year with every grain of the eight treasures. During the Laba Festival, we drink Laba porridge and Laba tea to welcome the upcoming New Year. There are many customs associated with the Laba Festival, most of which revolve around food, such as Laba porridge, Laba garlic, Laba tofu, Laba noodles, and even "Laba ice." Of course, what Tea Weekly is introducing to everyone today is a cup of Laba tea with endless flavors~ Laba tea originated in the prosperous Tang Dynasty and was introduced to the northwest during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Traditionally, it is a premium beverage served by the Hui and Dongxiang ethnic groups along the ancient Silk Road to their guests. Laba tea is originally known as Eight Treasure Tea or Three-Brew Tea. In regions of Northwest China, such as Gansu, Qinghai, and Ningxia, there is a tradition of drinking Eight Treasure Tea. In these areas, drinking Eight Treasure Tea is a common part…

Tea is one of the world's most popular beverages. From ancient times to the present, tea brewing has been regarded as both an art and a culture. For tea enthusiasts, mastering the correct brewing method not only allows you to savor the best flavor of the leaves but also brings tranquility and joy during the brewing process. This article will guide you through the general tea brewing process, enabling you to easily master tea-making skills and enjoy every cup of good tea. (Image source: Internet. Please contact us for removal if it infringes on your rights.) Selecting Suitable Tea Leaves The first step in brewing tea is selecting appropriate tea leaves. Different types of tea, such as green tea, black tea, oolong tea, white tea, etc., have varying brewing methods. When purchasing tea, try to choose fresh and high-quality leaves. The quality of the tea directly affects the taste and aroma of the tea liquor. Preparing Tea Utensils Prepare a set of suitable tea utensils. These typically include a teapot, teacups, a fairness cup (used to evenly distribute the tea), and a tea strainer. If possible, you can also prepare a tea tray and tea cloth to keep the tea…

Pu'er tea is a common variety we encounter, known for its unique quality of improving with age. However, Pu'er tea cakes, once pressed, tend to be quite compact, making it difficult to retrieve the tea. Many people end up breaking the tea into small pieces when trying to remove some. Today, we'll introduce a few tips that will help you smartly retrieve your Pu'er tea. How to Properly Pry Open a Pu'er Tea Cake? We notice that most Pu'er teas are pressed into cake shapes, commonly in the form of seven-cake rounds weighing 357 grams each. Nowadays, there are also cakes available in 200 grams and 100 grams. When you purchase a tea cake, do you know how to pry it open? This has led to various unconventional methods of retrieving tea, such as some enthusiasts using brute force with their hands or even kitchen knives. Are these among the methods you typically use? How to Retrieve Tea from a Pu'er Tea Cake Some less tightly compressed tea cakes can be opened by hand. Gently rub the edge of the cake, and the scattered leaves will be enough for one serving while maintaining the shape of the cake; for cakes…

Transparent glass cups, leisure cups, and white porcelain bowls with lids are ideal for brewing green tea. For green tea, you can choose a transparent, patternless glass cup or white, light blue, or blue-and-white porcelain cups without lids. A patternless glass cup is best as it allows for better appreciation of the green tea's shape and color. What Kind of Tea Ware Is Best for Green Tea? 1. Porcelain Cups Porcelain cups are suitable for brewing mid-to-high-grade green teas, such as stir-fried green teas (grades one and two), pearl green teas, baked green teas, sun-dried green teas, etc., where the focus is on taste, flavor, or quenching thirst. Typically, observe the tea’s color, aroma, and shape before brewing. The "middle infusion method" can be used, pouring near-boiling water at 95–100°C over the tea, and covering the cup to retain the aroma and maintain the water temperature, which helps the tea leaves to unfurl and sink to the bottom of the cup. After 3–5 minutes, remove the lid, smell the aroma, taste the tea, and judge the strength of the tea soup. Drink up to three infusions. This brewing method is convenient for serving guests or drinking tea during office hours.…

In daily life, many people enjoy brewing various herbs into tea, enjoying not only the aroma of the tea but also benefiting their health. Sichuan Fritillary (commonly abbreviated as Sichuan Fritillary) is one such common herb. Can Sichuan Fritillary be used to make tea? The answer is yes. Not only can it be used to make tea, but there are also many benefits and precautions worth knowing about. Today, we will delve into this topic in detail. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) Efficacy and Benefits of Sichuan Fritillary Sichuan Fritillary is a common traditional Chinese medicine that has the effects of clearing heat and moistening the lungs, as well as relieving phlegm and stopping coughs. Sichuan Fritillary contains various alkaloids and other active components that can inhibit multiple pathogens and have anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, Sichuan Fritillary can enhance immunity, improve physical condition, and has a good therapeutic effect on chronic cough, bronchitis, and lung heat cough. Benefits of Brewing Sichuan Fritillary Tea 1. Moistens the Lungs and Stops Coughing: Sichuan Fritillary tea can effectively alleviate coughing, particularly suitable for dry coughs without phlegm or blood in the sputum. 2. Clears Heat and Detoxifies: Sichuan Fritillary has a heat-clearing effect…

"Great is the abundance, and thus the snow reaches its peak." Today marks the third solar term of winter – Heavy Snow. Heavy Snow has officially arrived. The pages on the calendar are dwindling down. A sharp chill always greets you at dawn. Opening the window reveals a bleak and desolate landscape. Hot water is being heated on the stove. A teapot sits on the table. Draw the warmest future imaginable on the windowpane. This is the ritual of Heavy Snow in winter. During the "Heavy Snow" season in the north, snow and tea whisper to each other. You come quietly with a pot of hot tea. Wear a cotton jacket and have a snowball fight. Step into the snow and listen to the crunching sounds. When tired, retreat indoors. The fire crackles and pops. Heavy Snow is silent. The stories buried by the snow melt away in the warmth of tea. A snowfall, a cup of tea. You are in the heavy snow of a cold northern night. I am basking in the warmth under the bright southern sun. Brew a good pot of tea and enjoy the warmth of winter. After enjoying the sun during the day, the…

Infusing black tea 3-5 times is generally best, as continued infusions will result in a very light flavor. However, high-quality black teas can be infused over 10 times, such as Jin Junmei and Yunnan ancient tree black teas. When infusing high-grade black teas, you can use water at 100 degrees Celsius. The techniques for infusing black tea, so you don’t waste it. Tea enthusiasts know that black tea is delicious, but the taste can vary when brewed by different people. For example, if the tea is steeped for too long or too much tea is used, the flavor changes. Knowing some infusion techniques can help bring out the aroma and taste of the tea. Today, I’d like to share some techniques for infusing black tea, [Black Tea Infusion Techniques] Choice of teaware: glassware, ceramic covered bowls, purple clay pots Amount of tea: 5-8g Water temperature: 85-90°C Steeping time: For the first three infusions of black tea, the tea can generally be poured out immediately, with subsequent infusions allowing for slightly longer steeping times. Number of infusions: 5-6 is optimal 1. During the first infusion, about 50% to 55% of the soluble substances in the tea are extracted; 2. The second…

Litchi, also known as lychee, is loved for its sweet and fragrant flesh. The entire fruit is a treasure trove of medicinal value. For instance, litchi seeds can help regulate qi flow, dispel cold and stagnation, and relieve pain. Litchi shells are known to alleviate heatiness in the body to some extent. A lady's laughter through a cloud of red dust; none would know it was due to litchis coming—Du Mu, "Passing by Huaqing Palace (Three Quatrains, First)" Eat three hundred litchis daily, I would not mind being a southerner forever—Su Shi, "Eating Litchis" In May in the south, litchis are as red as cinnabar, each one round like a dragon's pearl—Liu Zuman, "Litchi" Many tea enthusiasts also love litchis but may wonder which teas pair well with them. In fact, litchis have a strong compatibility and can be paired with many foods, producing unique effects. With tea, you can try pairing litchis with black, white, or green tea—all of which work well. Here are the benefits of combining litchis with tea: Litchi Black Tea—Beauty and Detoxification Litchis contain vitamins A, B1, and C, as well as pectin, free amino acids, proteins, and elements such as iron, phosphorus, and calcium.…

Dried tangerine peel can be paired with both ripe and raw Pu'er, but relatively speaking, ripe Pu'er is better. When paired with raw tea, the dried tangerine peel can alleviate the bitterness of the tea and moderate its strong taste and nature; when paired with ripe tea, the taste is smooth and aged with a rich aroma, complementing each other perfectly. Brewing ripe Pu'er together with dried tangerine peel results in a smoother and silkier flavor, catering to the drinking needs of most people. How to brew and cook Pu'er tea with dried tangerine peel; A cup of dried tangerine peel Pu'er not only clears the lungs and moisturizes but also provides a delightful afternoon experience. First, take a small teapot with a capacity of 200 ml, 2 grams of dried tangerine peel, and 8 grams of ripe Pu'er tea. Break the dried tangerine peel into small pieces, as smaller pieces will fully release the aromatic oils from the peel. When cooking dried tangerine peel Pu'er, it is important to maintain a balance between the two ingredients; too much peel can overpower the taste and lose the individual flavors. Place the dried tangerine peel and Pu'er tea together in the…

Selecting the Right Type of Tea The first step in brewing a good cup of tea is choosing high-quality tea leaves. There are various types of tea available on the market, including green tea, black tea, white tea, oolong tea, and Pu'er tea, each with its unique flavor and characteristics. When selecting tea, it is recommended to purchase from reputable brands or specialized tea shops, ensuring freshness and quality. (Image source: network; delete if infringement) Preparing the Necessary Tools Brewing tea requires some basic tools, such as a teapot, teacup, strainer, and teaspoon. For a more professional setup, you can prepare a tea set. Choose a teapot made of ceramic, glass, or purple clay, as these materials better retain the temperature and aroma of the tea. A strainer can help remove tea fragments, making the tea liquor clearer. Mastering the Right Water Quality and Temperature Water quality has a crucial impact on the taste of tea. It is best to use mineral water or filtered tap water, avoiding chlorinated or hard water. Different types of tea have different requirements for water temperature. Generally, green tea should be brewed at 80-85°C, black tea and oolong tea require 90-95°C, while Pu'er tea…

Pu'er shengcha is a treasure in the hearts of tea enthusiasts. To truly appreciate its unique flavor and rich aroma, mastering the correct brewing method is essential. Whether you're a tea art novice or an experienced tea lover, this article will provide you with the most detailed and friendly guide to brewing Pu'er shengcha. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Understanding Your Pu'er Shengcha Before brewing, it's key to understand the basic information about the tea. Pu'er shengcha undergoes natural fermentation, giving it a unique fragrance and taste. Its leaves are typically large, greenish in color, and have a fresh, natural aroma. The quality of Pu'er shengcha is closely related to its origin, harvest time, and storage duration, so when purchasing, choose reliable brands and channels. Preparation: Utensils and Water There are many options for brewing Pu'er shengcha, including covered bowls, purple clay pots, and glass teapots. Each type has its unique advantages, but the most important thing is to choose utensils that you feel comfortable using and can fully showcase the characteristics of the tea. The quality of water greatly influences the tea infusion. Ideally, the water should be clean, odorless, and have moderate mineral content. The best choice…

Black tea is fully fermented, and during the fermentation process, polyphenols in the tea leaves oxidize continuously. Originally hidden within the leaves, nutrients move to the surface and dissolve easily in water. Therefore, brewing black tea is very skill-dependent. Key to brewing great black tea, aside from the amount of tea, water temperature, and steeping time, is having a good purple clay pot. So what kind of pot allows even a beginner tea enthusiast to brew delicious black tea? The rich aroma of black tea and the warmth of a purple clay pot have an inherent connection, blending together to create a cup of tea that lingers in the memory. When using a purple clay pot to brew black tea, it's important to understand these aspects to bring out the best flavor. Purple clay pots have strong adsorption properties and retain the tea's fragrance. Purple clay pots have a unique dual-pore structure, with both chain pores and closed pores coexisting. Chain pores allow the tea's aroma to pass through the pores, but because they are winding and tortuous, some residue remains on the pore walls. This is the primary reason why purple clay pots retain the tea's fragrance. Black tea…

Brewing ripened Pu'er tea involves three main steps: 1) Prepare a Yixing clay pot or a gaiwan; 2) Determine the tea-to-water ratio, using 7g of tea for every 100ml of water when brewing with a gaiwan, and 10g of tea for every 180ml of water when brewing with a Yixing pot; 3) Rinse the tea for about 10 seconds before brewing, then infuse with boiling water, with the first to fifth infusions steeping for 5-7 seconds, and subsequent infusions steeping for 7-10 seconds. 1. Teaware You can use a Yixing clay pot or a gaiwan to brew ripened Pu'er tea. The internal pores of a Yixing pot provide good breathability, which helps to enhance the aroma and aged flavor of the tea. A gaiwan, on the other hand, does not absorb flavors, allowing you to experience the true taste of the ripened Pu'er and appreciate its beautiful color. 2. Tea Quantity If using a gaiwan, a general guideline is a tea-to-water ratio of 7g of tea for every 100ml of water. For brewing with a Yixing pot (180ml capacity), around 10g of tea is suitable. Adjust the amount of tea based on your preference for stronger or milder flavor. 3.…

What is Pu'er Tea Fossil? The Pu'er tea fossil is a special form of ripe Pu'er tea, named for its appearance resembling stone. It is made through a unique fermentation and compression process, possessing a distinctive aged aroma and rich flavor. Not only does the tea fossil perform well during brewing, but it is also favored by tea enthusiasts for its convenient storage and portability. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) Preparations for Brewing Pu'er Tea Fossil Before officially starting the brewing process, it is important to prepare the following tools and materials: Teapot or gaiwan: Preferably use a purple clay teapot or gaiwan, as this can better preserve and enhance the aroma and taste of the tea fossil. Teacups: Choose small to medium-sized cups, which are convenient for appreciating the changes in each infusion. Tea cloth and tray: To keep the tea table tidy and facilitate handling. Six Gentlemen of Tea: Auxiliary tools such as tea tongs and tea scoops. How to Brew Pu'er Tea Fossil? The steps for brewing Pu'er tea fossil may seem complex, but they are not difficult once you grasp the essentials. (Image source: Internet, delete upon request) Washing the Tea Due to its tightly…

There is a consensus in the Pu'er tea industry that drinking tea should prioritize spring tea! The benefits of spring tea need no elaboration. If you want to savor the enticingly fresh and brisk flavor of Pu'er tea to the fullest, you may try the following brewing methods. The tea-to-water ratio should be 100:7, meaning about 7 grams of tea for every 100 milliliters of water in a gaiwan. Adjust according to personal taste and the capacity of the gaiwan. A relatively standard tea-to-water ratio not only helps you better appreciate the authentic flavor of spring tea, showcasing its fresh taste, aroma, and flavor, but also reduces any potential irritation to the stomach. Loose tea does not require deliberate pre-infusion; at least one rinse is sufficient. Pre-infusion aims to activate the tea leaves and release their aroma, primarily for compressed teas. Loose tea maintains good activity in its loose state, so it only needs to be rinsed once or twice when brewing. Boiling water at 100°C is not an all-purpose choice for brewing Pu'er tea; 95°C is more suitable. For Pu'er tea, especially freshly made spring tea (especially loose tea), 100°C is not the ideal temperature. Spring tea with tender…

What we dread most about winter is the lack of sunshine, wrapping layer upon layer of clothing yet still feeling the chill. Though we might not have a roaring fireplace, brewing a pot of aged tea on a small stove is certainly doable. The flames dance within the stove as the steam, carrying the aroma of the tea, gradually fills the room. Lifting the teapot to pour out the tea, the bright red liquor is enveloped in warm vapor. Sipping the tea, its soft and gentle texture feels like winter sunshine, warming both body and soul. On sunny days, one can take a small stool and sit under the sun, a bowl of aged tea at hand. Bathing in the warm sunlight while sipping hot tea, perhaps reading a book, pondering something, or simply daydreaming, relishing this moment of tranquility. This is likely the charm of aged tea—it brings warmth and induces calmness. As the weather gets colder, appetites tend to grow. Those who eat half a bowl of rice in summer may find themselves consuming a full bowl in winter. However, it’s not just about the quantity; even half a bowl needs side dishes! In the past, I assumed…

In the long history of Chinese tea culture, both pointing tea and brewing hold significant positions. Pointing tea is a unique form of tea art from the Song Dynasty, while brewing represents modern tea art. Let's explore these two forms of tea art together and appreciate the beauty of traditional and contemporary tea arts. (Image source: Internet, to be deleted upon request) What is Pointing Tea? Pointing tea, also known as "Tea Hundred Games," is an exquisite form of tea art that originated in the Song Dynasty. Emperor Huizong described the process of pointing tea in detail in "Da Guan Tea Treatise." This form of tea art, with its intricate techniques and unique cultural background, became a symbol of Song Dynasty tea culture. The basic procedure for pointing tea involves grinding tea cakes into fine powder, using a tea whisk (a bamboo tea brush) to mix the tea powder with hot water, stirring quickly to create a thick tea soup, and finally forming a delicate foam on the surface of the tea soup. The finer and longer-lasting the foam, the more skilled the pointing tea technique. Historical Background of Pointing Tea The Song Dynasty was an era that valued governance…

Want to enjoy a refreshing and unique cold brew tea at home? Follow these simple steps, and you'll easily make the perfect cup of cold brew tea! Preparation Stage: Prepare Tools: First, get some cold water, your favorite tea leaves, and a transparent glass cup. Tall, cylindrical glass cups are best for showcasing the dance of the tea leaves.Clean the Tea Utensils: Rinse the glass cup gently with warm water to ensure it is clean. Then pour out the water and let the cup air dry. Brewing Process: Add Tea Leaves: Place 5-8 grams of dried tea leaves into the cup. Since cold brewing releases the aroma slowly, use slightly more tea leaves. You can choose from green tea, oolong tea, or white tea, with Silver Needle offering the best cold brew taste.Pour in Cold Water: Next, fill the cup with cold boiled water almost to the rim. Remember to use cold boiled water rather than tap water to maintain the sweetness of the tea infusion. Wait for the Aroma: Be Patient: Place the cup at room temperature and leave it undisturbed for 4-6 hours to allow the aroma and flavor of the tea leaves to fully develop. Alternatively, you…

The Silver Needle White Tea is made from the plump buds of the large-leaf white tea plant. The buds are covered in white down, have a color like silver, and a shape resembling a needle; they have a fresh aroma with a distinct downy scent and a taste that is harmonious, refreshing, and sweet. The infusion is bright and pale apricot in color. When steeped in a cup, the tea buds slowly sink to the bottom, unfurling upright as if they were slender silver needles or pointed bamboo shoots, creating a remarkable sight. It has a fresh downy aroma and a sweet and mellow flavor, making it a high-quality tea. Silver Needle White Tea is known for its ability to improve eyesight and reduce internal heat, and can treat severe cases of heat. Because it requires specific tea plant varieties and processing techniques, its annual production is very low. Therefore, it is a rare treasure among white teas. Throughout the year, nature undergoes cyclical changes: spring sprouting, summer growth, autumn harvest, and winter dormancy. As seasons change, natural environments, temperatures, and human physiological functions also alter. To better preserve health and ensure physical and mental well-being, choosing suitable teas and…

Why Choose Iced Mineral Water for Brewing Tea? Brewing tea is an art, and choosing the right water and temperature is key. In the world of tea, the quality of the water has a crucial impact on the final taste. Using iced mineral water to brew tea, this unique method not only preserves the natural flavor of the tea leaves but also imparts a distinctive coolness to the tea. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Benefits of Brewing Tea with Iced Mineral Water Maintaining the Pure Flavor of the Tea Mineral water is naturally rich in minerals, which can enhance the flavor of the tea. As the iced mineral water slowly melts, it gradually releases these minerals, ensuring that the flavor of the tea leaves becomes richer and more complex. Compared to using tap water or purified water, mineral water can make the aroma and taste of the tea fuller. Gradually Releasing the Aroma of the Tea As the iced mineral water melts, it gradually releases moisture, allowing the flavors of the tea leaves to be released progressively, avoiding the bitterness that can sometimes occur when brewing with hot water. This method is particularly effective for high-quality green teas and…

The brewing temperature for Dian Hong black tea is 95-100°C. High-quality black tea contains a rich array of substances and deeply accumulated aromatic compounds that can only be fully released with water at or above 95°C. This high temperature brings out the tea's rich and varied aroma and also helps to extract its internal substances, ensuring the fullness of the tea liquor. What Temperature Water is Best for Brewing Dian Hong Black Tea? The ideal water temperature for brewing Dian Hong black tea is 95°C. Black tea is made through fermentation, and using high temperatures can fully extract polyphenols, amino acids, and other substances from the tea. Additionally, high temperatures enhance the aroma and richness of flavor. However, the 95°C refers to water that has been left to cool for about 2 minutes after boiling, not water that has not reached boiling point. For premium black teas, a water temperature around 95°C is suitable, or you can use water at 100°C for a more intense flavor. Regardless, the water must always be brought to a boil. There isn't a definitive temperature, as lower temperatures yield a smoother taste and slower extraction of substances, increasing the tea's durability, while higher temperatures…

Spring returns to the land, bringing with it the distant fragrance of tea, awakening the dormant tea trees. The tea freely stretches itself in boiling water, releasing the beauty stored throughout the winter. A refreshing cup of spring tea encapsulates the essence of the entire season. 01 Spring is for drinking spring tea Spring tea aligns with the concept of “spring growth,” meeting human needs. Spring is when life force is most vigorous within the body, and metabolism begins to thrive. The basic principle of health preservation is to align with the opportunity for “spring growth,” allowing the body and mind to relax, letting vitality flourish. Spring tea carries a vibrant life force and the freshness of spring. Drinking spring tea in moderation can help the body purge old energy and absorb fresh qi. 02 Spring tea combats spring fatigue Flowers come alive through their scent, while tea gains its value from its aroma. Because early spring temperatures are not high, the environment for preserving aromatic compounds is ideal. Thus, the aroma of spring tea is unparalleled by tea from other seasons. The spring breeze brings renewal and the rise of yang energy, giving all things new life, but people…

Boiling tea can be seen as an advanced method compared to steeping. Typically, boiling is used when the full depth of flavor cannot be extracted by steeping alone, as boiling makes the tea more aromatic and robust. Generally, older teas are better suited for boiling because they are more resilient and have a richer and varied internal quality. Examples include aged white tea, aged Pu'er tea, and aged Tieguanyin oolong. Tea can be boiled directly or after initial steeping. Lighter teas like white tea are suitable for direct boiling in a pot, while stronger teas such as dark teas benefit from being steeped in a covered bowl for four to five rounds before boiling, preventing the resulting brew from being overly strong. What Kinds of Tea Can Be Boiled? Which Teas Are Best for Boiling? 1. Young White Tea Should Be Steeped; Aged White Tea Is Better Suited for BoilingWhite tea is a minimally processed tea that is sun-dried or gently oven-dried, giving it a distinctive silver color and "green with white" appearance. Its aroma is gentle, and its liquor is light. White tea is typically categorized into Silver Needle (pure buds), White Peony (one bud and one or two…