Brew Tea

As a top-notch contender in the tea world, Pu'er tea not only excels in its inner qualities but also transforms endlessly in its outer appearance. As the forms of Pu'er tea continue to evolve, shapes such as bricks, cakes, tuans, and tos have emerged, along with many Pu'er teas being crafted into tea beads. Perhaps due to their striking and beautiful appearance, these beads have been given a charming name: Dragon Beads. Pu'er Dragon Beads are round and "playful," unlike regular loose or cake teas where the method of brewing is familiar to many. The unique shape of Pu'er Dragon Beads can sometimes make it challenging to brew them properly. Often, after several infusions, the leaves remain tightly embraced and unwilling to separate, or the steeping time is too long, resulting in an unappealing concentration and flavor... The most frustrating part is that many Dragon Beads are made from high-end, premium Pu'er teas. It seems essential to understand the proper way to handle Pu'er Dragon Beads. How are Dragon Beads Made? The difference in the production process of Pu'er Dragon Beads lies solely in the shaping stage. Typically, a single Dragon Bead uses 5-8 grams of material. After steaming the…

Summer is scorching hot, and you may crave a cup of warm tea. Many tea enthusiasts wonder what kind of tea they should drink during the summer months. Based on different scenarios, we recommend the following teas.Prevent Heatstroke—Drink White Tea Hot weather can easily cause heatstroke, especially for those who work or play outdoors frequently. In this case, white tea is your go-to choice. White tea is lightly fermented without roasting or kneading, making it cool in nature. It contains abundant amino acids that help reduce heat and eliminate summer heat, effectively preventing heatstroke. Consumption Taboos New white tea has a slightly cold nature, so people with cold stomachs should drink less and avoid drinking it on an empty stomach. Boost Energy and Nourish Stomach—Drink Black Tea During summer, people tend to feel listless and drowsy. The caffeine-rich black tea stimulates the central nervous system, accelerates blood circulation, promotes metabolism, thus helping to boost energy and alleviate fatigue. In summer, we often consume icy foods or cold drinks to cool down. However, doing so can easily harm our delicate digestive system. As black tea is warm in nature, it has the effect of warming and protecting the stomach. Therefore, summer…

A critically important chapter in the history of human civilization has been written by fragrances. Those invisible scents have established the closest and most mysterious connection between humans and nature. Humans, relying on this marvelous relationship, have experienced significant enhancement and progress in every aspect, from the material to the spiritual, from the sensory to the mental, from religion to politics, and from science to art. However, contemporary people, living in an extremely realistic yet virtual society, are constantly exposed to all kinds of informational "stimuli," making our inner space seem increasingly "powerful." Simultaneously, with our daily indulgence in flavorful foods and spicy drinks, our tastes seem to have become increasingly bold. Over time, many people have realized that their senses have regressed significantly, and there is a certain barrier between their sense of smell and fragrances… Nowadays, with the revival of Puer tea at the beginning of the new century, the era of Puer tea consumption is dawning, and identifying and appreciating its aroma has been elevated to unparalleled heights. Even in general tea evaluation, aroma alone accounts for 30% to 40% of the total score, demonstrating the crucial role and significance of smelling in the enjoyment of tea.…

There is an old saying: "Preserved tangerine peel of a hundred years is like ginseng of a thousand years," meaning that the longer the tangerine peel is preserved, the more valuable it becomes. Runyuanchang's pure dry warehouse for Newhui preserved tangerine peel strictly categorizes and stores the peels according to their origin, age, and grade. The warehouse maintains constant temperature and humidity, and conducts regular inspections, ensuring the high quality of Runyuanchang and its brand Ganrentang's Newhui preserved tangerine peel, which stands out for its clean and sweet flavor compared to other preserved tangerine peels on the market. Nowadays, many people have the habit of using preserved tangerine peel in their cooking. Whether it's in soups or stir-fries, some recipes opt to use tangerine peel instead of scallions and ginger to avoid being too spicy, as it not only detoxifies fish and shrimp but also adds a unique aroma and removes fishy odors. Adding some to mutton or beef soup can help cut through the fat and make the meat cook faster. When cooked with rice porridge, it not only enhances the fragrance but also warms the stomach. Many recipes for using tangerine peel in cooking have been discovered. 1.…

In China's culinary culture, the phrase "eat seasonally" holds great significance. These four words succinctly capture the close relationship between food and seasons. For tea culture, there are also many considerations when drinking in accordance with the time of year. According to traditional Chinese medicine: "In the midst of winter, when all life is dormant, the physiological activities of the human body are in a state of inhibition, the key to health preservation lies in keeping warm." Therefore, winter tea drinking emphasizes the concept of "warmth." Not only should the tea focus on warmth and nourishment, but the tea-drinking ritual itself should also strive to create a warm atmosphere. Snow Melting and Tea Boiling: The Poetic Warm Winter of the Ancients "The tea kettle startles at its boiling in the midnight hours, just as the snow on the bamboo outside the frosty window shines brightly." This line captures the elegant scene of the Tang Dynasty poet Sikong Tu boiling tea during winter. However, tea boiling did not begin in the Tang Dynasty; it started during the Western Han Dynasty. During the Han, Wei, and Six Dynasties periods, tea was "cooked together," resulting in a thick soup that was then consumed.…

Introduction Hi, friend! Did you know that passion fruit isn't just a delicious fruit, but it can also be used to brew a magical and healthy drink? This brewing method is simple to learn yet the results are stunning. Let's dive into the world of passion fruit tea and see how it's brewed and why you should give this tea a try. (Image source: network, delete if infringement) Benefits of Passion Fruit Tea Passion fruit, also known as eggfruit, is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. Drinking passion fruit tea has many benefits. First, it can strengthen the immune system and help fight off colds and other infections. Secondly, this tea promotes digestion and helps relieve stomach discomfort. Additionally, the antioxidants in passion fruit can combat free radicals and slow down the aging process. Besides health benefits, passion fruit tea also aids in relaxation. It contains natural calming components that can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Whether you want to unwind after a busy day or need some help falling asleep, passion fruit tea is a great choice. Ingredients for Brewing Passion Fruit Tea You only need a few simple ingredients to start brewing…

Bai Mudan tea, as a premium variety of Chinese white tea, is renowned for its unique flavor and health benefits. The correct brewing method not only maximally showcases its aroma and taste but also preserves its rich nutritional content. Today, we will take an in-depth look at the brewing time and techniques for Bai Mudan tea. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Characteristics of Bai Mudan Tea Bai Mudan tea originates from Fujian Province. The tea leaves consist of two leaves and a bud, with green leaves and silver-white buds, resembling a blooming peony flower, hence the name "Bai Mudan." The tea-making process is simple, mainly involving natural withering and slight fermentation, preserving the natural form and nutritional components of the leaves. Basic Steps for Brewing Bai Mudan Tea To enjoy the best taste of Bai Mudan tea, brewing time and water temperature are crucial. Here are the detailed steps: Prepare the Teaware Bai Mudan tea is suitable for glass cups or transparent covered bowls, allowing you to appreciate the beautiful unfolding of the leaves in the water. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Select Water Quality Pure or mineral water is recommended to avoid the impact of chlorine and…

White tea is the simplest type of tea. It doesn’t require any fixation or stir-frying, it only needs to be naturally air-dried. Even for storage, white tea has low requirements; it just needs to be kept at a constant temperature in a dry and odorless environment. Without complex processes and minimal human intervention, white tea presents a taste that is closest to nature, a fresh and sweet flavor. Coupled with the full-bodied "sunny taste" produced by sun-drying, white tea embodies minimalism in Chinese teas. White tea, one of the six major types of tea, is renowned for its fresh and unprocessed character. If we compare tea-making to cooking, some green teas would be stir-fried dishes, black teas would be braised dishes, while this white tea would be like blanched vegetables, preserving the most basic flavors of the tea leaves. Just like relationships between people, it doesn’t need to be dramatic, as long as there is consistent warmth and sincerity. White tea is cool in nature and has effects similar to those of rhinoceros horn. The reputation of white tea dates back a long time, with early records found in "Compendium of Materia Medica" and "The Classic of Tea." "Compendium of…

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…

To truly understand Puer tea and enjoy the pleasure of its appreciation is not easy. It requires a significant amount of accumulated personal experience and expertise, as well as a rich knowledge base and artistic cultivation to reach the realm of Puer appreciation. For raw Puer tea, the unique production process endows it with distinctive color, aroma, flavor, qi (energy), rhythm, and realm, unlike other teas that only emphasize color, aroma, flavor, and shape. Therefore, when appreciating Puer tea, one must fully concentrate and engage all sensory organs and taste buds, as well as various cavities in the body, to perceive the aroma, qi field, qi path, rhythm, and abstract realms. One must then activate their mind to analyze and think about the conclusions perceived, and based on these conclusions, deduce the true condition of the raw material quality, processing, and storage. This allows for an evaluation of the product's strengths and weaknesses, providing a comprehensive assessment. Hence, appreciating Puer tea requires a comprehensive understanding of natural sciences, as well as life experiences, aesthetics, art, and more, to comprehend and enjoy the social, artistic, and philosophical feelings rooted in the nature of the tea. Raw Puer Appreciation - Color Dry…

Ripened Pu'er tea can be tricky to brew. It's easy to end up with a weak flavor, thin mouthfeel, and sometimes an unpleasant aroma. Even well-stored teas can produce a drying, tight sensation in the throat, which is quite perplexing. So how can we brew ripened Pu'er tea for a better taste? 1. Analyze the Tea's Nature In terms of aroma, new ripened teas have a piling smell, but good teas will develop floral and honey-like aromas or even aged scents as they are brewed. Older ripened teas may have storage and dried leaf aromas, but good old teas will exhibit excellent aged or medicinal aromas as they are brewed. In terms of flavor, new ripened teas are not very astringent or stimulating, but they do have a better mouthfeel. When brewed properly, they can present a smooth and sandy texture similar to red bean soup. Older ripened teas have a clearer broth and milder flavor, but they can achieve a high level of smoothness and oiliness when brewed properly, even reaching a state of "melting." Generally speaking, ripened teas are not very complex and tend not to hold up through many infusions. 2. Establish Goals Based on the Tea's…

Unique Ways to Prepare Pu'er Tea In the world of Pu'er, there are these unique tea-making methods. Let's explore how many you've tried. Bamboo-Flavored Tea The Bamboo-Flavored Tea is a distinctive method used by the Dai and Lahu people. It gets its name from the bamboo fragrance infused into the tea leaves. ① Soak glutinous rice for two hours, then spread it at the bottom of a steamer. Place dried tea leaves on top and steam them. ② Once the tea leaves have softened and absorbed the aroma of the rice, pack them tightly into a bamboo tube. ❸ Seal the opening with sweet bamboo leaves and slowly roast the bamboo tube over charcoal until it turns yellow and the tea inside is completely dry. ❹ To consume, split open the bamboo tube, portion out some tea leaves into a bowl, and pour boiling water over them to drink. Roasted Tea Roasted tea is one of the drinking methods used by the Lahu people. The preparation process is relatively simple. ① Directly roast fresh tea (one bud and five leaves) over fire until it turns golden brown. ❷ Place the roasted tea into a preheated clay pot, add water, and…

As is known to all, boiling tea, steaming tea, and infusing tea are three different ways of enjoying tea. Boiling tea is a form of tea art. During the prosperous Tang and Song dynasties, Chinese people used to drink boiled tea. Infusing tea is also an art. As the saying goes: "Use boiling water for aged tea and hot water for tender tea." Boiling refers to using freshly boiled water, while infusing means using water from a thermos. Steaming tea, however, is quite rare. In Liubao Town, Cangwu County, Guangxi, there is another popular way of enjoying tea: braising. Braising is a commonly used cooking method in southern cuisine. In southeastern Guangxi, there is a unique custom where serving tea is a way of hospitality for locals. Guests are welcomed with tea as if it were wine, and the tea remains warm even after guests leave. This is a tradition among the people of Liubao. "No tea to taste" implies that the host is either indifferent or lazy by nature. If you visit someone and "do not even taste the tea," it suggests disrespect towards the host. The reason why locals choose to braise their tea might be due to…

People often like to add other ingredients when drinking tea to adjust its flavor. Some foods can stimulate the tea, making its aroma more intense, while others can enhance the tea's health benefits. What is the best thing to pair with Pu'er tea? It depends on your goal. If you want to cleanse your digestive system, you can pair it with honey. If you're looking for beauty benefits, rose flowers are a good choice. The Chinese approach to tea consumption has never been limited to plain drinking. On the contrary, there are many ingredients that complement tea well and can be excellent for adjusting flavors and promoting health, even for Pu'er tea, which is often associated with plain drinking. The people of Yunnan have their own unique additions to this tea. Combinations for Drinking Pu'er Tea 1. Pu'er Ripened Tea with Honey Ripened Pu'er tea can be enjoyed with honey, making the brewed tea sweet but not cloying, with an improved taste and higher nutritional value. To prepare, place ripened Pu'er tea in a clean teaware, pour boiling water over it, and steep. Once steeped, transfer the tea to a cup, let it cool slightly, then stir in an appropriate…

When drinking Fuding white tea, have you ever paid attention to the temperature of the tea? Have you ever hesitated and wondered if you should drink it right after brewing? You might think: If I drink it now, will it scald my mouth? Should I let it sit for a while? But then, how long should I wait? Sometimes, you forget about it and by the time you remember, it's cold... Do you have similar experiences? Perhaps because of your fondness for it and desire for a better taste, you are hesitant to drink it; at the same time, you wonder whether drinking it immediately provides the highest nutrition or if letting it sit improves its flavor. When the tea is freshly brewed, steam rises from it. You take the first blow to disperse the steam on the surface of the tea to avoid burning your lips; the second blow disperses any floating particles; and finally, when the temperature is just right, you can enjoy the warm liquid flowing down your throat. The flavor is at its best right after brewing. Although the temperature is high at this point, it can retain the taste of the tea, allowing its aroma…

Tea, this ancient beverage, not only carries profound cultural significance but its brewing process is also a remarkable journey of chemistry and sensory experience. This article will take you into the world of tea brewing, revealing the scientific principles behind it and how brewing techniques can enhance the quality and flavor of tea. The Chemical Composition of Tea The chemical composition of tea is very complex, containing various compounds that influence the color, aroma, and taste of the tea infusion. Among these, polyphenols, caffeine, amino acids, and sugars are key factors affecting the quality of the tea infusion. Changes During the Brewing Process When tea meets hot water, the curtain rises on a series of chemical reactions. Polyphenols begin to oxidize under the influence of hot water, forming theaflavins and thearubigins, which directly affect the color of the tea infusion. At the same time, caffeine and amino acids gradually dissolve in the water, adding bitterness and umami to the tea infusion. In addition, sugars in the tea dissolve in the hot water, providing sweetness to the tea infusion. The aromatic substances in tea, such as terpenoids, release their captivating aromas when stimulated by hot water. Sensory Experience The chemical changes…

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. (Image source: internet, delete upon request) 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…

What is Dancong Tea? Dancong tea, produced in the Fenghuang Mountain area of Chaozhou City, Guangdong Province, China, is a type of Oolong tea with distinctive local characteristics. It is renowned for its unique aroma and rich flavor, earning it the accolade of being the "cream of the crop" among teas. The name Dancong originates from the mother tree "Dancong," referring to a single tea plant, and its intricate production process makes it a premium tea. The Uniqueness of Dancong Tea What sets Dancong tea apart is primarily its aroma and taste. There are various aromatic types of Dancong tea, such as Orchid, Huangzhi, and Honey Orchid, each with its own distinct character. The tea-making process includes withering, shaking, fixation, rolling, and baking, each step requiring the skilled craftsmanship and extensive experience of the tea maker. Brewing Steps for Dancong Tea While Dancong tea boasts exceptional quality, the correct brewing method is essential to fully appreciate its unique flavors. Below are detailed brewing steps for Dancong tea. 1. Preparing the Tea Utensils Firstly, choosing suitable tea utensils is very important. Generally, a gaiwan or a purple clay teapot is the best choice for brewing Dancong tea. A gaiwan can better…

Sheng Pu'er tea requires water at 100°C for brewing. Sheng Pu'er tea is a direct representation of Yunnan large-leaf sun-dried green tea. It is characterized by its rich inner quality, ample tea essence, and tightly rolled leaves. To fully release its aroma and inner qualities, it needs to be brewed with water at 100°C, making the tea soup fuller, crisper, and richer. The unique and full-bodied large-leaf sun-dried green tea has a strong character and ample tea essence, with tightly rolled leaves. Its excellent inherent qualities require water at 100°C to bring out its best. High-temperature water fully captures its rich flavor and aged aroma. High temperature complements the flavor and aroma perfectly. It is ideal for the quick extraction of tea flavors, and high temperature here means water above 95°C. Coarse and aged Pu'er brick teas, compressed teas, and aged Pu'ers are best brewed with boiling water. Brewing Techniques for Sheng Pu'er Tea 1. Tea Quantity The optimal tea-to-water ratio for Pu'er tea is 1: (20~30), but you can adjust according to your taste preferences. 2. Water Temperature Newly produced Sheng Pu'er tea has not been aged, so it contains abundant active substances. The water temperature for brewing should…

New white tea does not require rinsing, while aged white tea does. New white tea is processed through withering and drying, preserving natural substances that are delicate and fragrant. Rinsing would remove the core components of the tea, affecting its taste and aroma. On the other hand, aged white tea, having matured over time, has a more stable and mellow aroma and content. Rinsing helps to activate these qualities, allowing the flavor and aroma to be expressed to their fullest extent. The Correct Method for Brewing White Tea To brew white tea properly: 1. Cup brewing method. This is the simplest and quickest method. First, prepare a suitable clear glass cup. Before brewing, rinse the tea with boiling water. Once you can smell the warm fragrance, place it in the glass cup and directly pour boiling water over it. Note that you should not use too much tea, as overly concentrated white tea is not ideal. 2. Gaiwan method. This method is a bit more complicated. Place the tea in the gaiwan and rinse it, then brew using the Gongfu tea method. The first infusion should be about half a minute, with subsequent infusions decreasing in time. This method produces…

Theoretically, to ensure a good taste, it's best to keep the tea and water separate. For example, when using a lidded bowl to steep tea, the first few infusions should be poured out quickly. Once the tea comes into contact with hot water, it begins to release compounds continuously. To avoid an excess of bitter substances that can affect the taste, it's important to control the brewing time and keep the tea and water separate. Why is it important to infuse and drink tea in separate steps, keeping the tea leaves and water separate? 1. Leaving tea steeping for too long can spoil the leaves, diminish their aroma, affect the taste, and cause oxidation of nutrients, resulting in a less enjoyable drinking experience. Separating the tea from the water helps to better realize the value of the tea. 2. The rate at which the internal compounds in tea are released varies. Prolonged steeping can lead to excessive release of caffeine, making the tea strong, bitter, and astringent. It can also become contaminated by environmental pollutants or even spoil, which is detrimental to health. 3. Keeping the tea and water separate allows for better control over the infusion time, preserving the…

Brewing Yunnan black tea involves a critical control of three factors: the amount of tea, water temperature, and brewing time. It is recommended to use warm water around 80 degrees Celsius for brewing. A quantity of 5 grams of tea is ideal, adjusted according to the brewing vessel, such as a lidded bowl. In fact, washing Yunnan black tea isn't necessary; this applies to all types of black tea. The quality of Yunnan black tea is relatively delicate, and its soluble substances are easily extracted, so there's no need to wash the tea before brewing. How to Brew Yunnan Black Tea 1. Warming the Cup. Rinse porcelain cups, teacups, and a pitcher with boiling water. 2. Adding the Tea. Gently scoop Yunnan black tea leaves into the cup using a tea spoon. Don't use too much tea, about 3-5 grams per serving, as too much can overpower the aroma and flavor. 3. Rinsing the Tea. Pour in water (around 85 degrees Celsius) and immediately pour it out without drinking it. 4. Brewing. Pour the cooled water (around 85 degrees Celsius) slowly along the side of the cup to swirl the leaves and fully immerse them, allowing the color, fragrance, and…

After the onset of autumn, the body's physiological activities change in accordance with the natural environment. Particular attention should be paid to regulating clothing, diet, living conditions, and physical activity. Clothing refers to the principle of “spring covering and autumn cooling.” Although it gets cooler in autumn, do not rush to add more clothes; allow your body to adapt within reasonable limits. Living conditions should include a reasonable sleep schedule. During the autumn, when the air is clear and dry, it is advisable to go to bed early and rise early. It is not recommended to stay indoors all day or sleep with your head covered at night. Windows should be kept open to ensure good indoor ventilation. Physical activity means that autumn is the golden season for strengthening your body through exercise. This helps improve joint and blood circulation flexibility and enhances the body’s resistance to disease. Additionally, cold resistance training can help the body adapt to changing weather conditions. A healthy lifestyle includes one tea, two fruits, three porridges, four soups, five vegetables, six meats, seven grains, and eight medicinal foods. Let's follow this order, starting with the first chapter on drinking tea in autumn. Traditional Chinese medicine…

Is drinking tea "refined" or "common"? "Refined" means elegant and sophisticated, while "common" refers to everyday, popular customs. Tea was originally common, starting from medicinal use, then culinary use, and eventually evolving into the most beloved drink of the Chinese people. In its transmission, tea became refined through the praise of people. People discovered that even among chaotic rocks, tea can take root and sprout, embodying resilience; that tea needs to be steeped in hot water to release its sweetness, with the leaves rising and sinking like life itself; and that drinking tea nourishes one, keeping the habit can make one’s thoughts sharp and mind tranquil... All these are qualities we aspire to have or enjoy experiencing, many of our better thoughts find solace in tea. Thus, monks, scholars, officials, and imperial families of ancient times all sang praises of tea, promoted it, made good tea, and brewed it well. The ritualistic aspect of tea-drinking gradually increased, making it a refined affair, giving rise to "tea culture". In the past, when social hierarchy was strictly defined, only those of high status could drink tea in a refined manner, while others would do so in a simple, mundane way. Today, in…