Brew Tea

Pu'er Cake Tea Basics Pu'er cake tea, a name that sounds full of mystery. It is not just a type of tea but also a symbol of culture. For beginners, brewing Pu'er cake tea correctly may seem like quite a challenge. Don't worry, I'll guide you step by step through this art so you can brew a good cup of tea at home. (Image source: network, delete upon request) What is Pu'er Cake Tea? Pu'er cake tea is a type of tea that has undergone fermentation and been pressed into a cake shape. It originates from Yunnan Province in China and is renowned for its unique flavor and aging potential. Pu'er tea comes in raw (sheng) and ripe (shou) varieties, with the former having a fresh taste and the latter being richer and more robust. Preparation Before Brewing Pu'er Cake Tea Selecting the Right Pu'er Cake Tea Pu'er cake tea comes in different vintages and types. Beginners might choose some basic tea cakes to try. Pay attention to the appearance and aroma of the leaves; high-quality Pu'er cake tea should have an even color and a natural tea fragrance. Selecting the Right Teaware It's best to use a purple clay…

Brewing Pu'er tea requires the right choice of purple clay pot and tea quantity. A 240cc purple clay pot is a common choice because of its moderate size, suitable for individual or small group consumption. This article will detail how to brew delicious Pu'er tea in a 240cc purple clay pot and explore the optimal tea quantity. (Image source: network, delete upon request) The Perfect Match: Purple Clay Pot and Pu'er Tea Purple clay pots are preferred for brewing Pu'er tea due to their unique material and breathability. They preserve the original aroma of the tea without absorbing its flavor, ensuring each brewing yields pure tea fragrance. The 240cc purple clay pot has a moderate capacity that prevents dilution due to excess water or over-concentration from too little water. Tea Quantity for Pu'er Tea For a 240cc purple clay pot, the tea quantity is generally between 8 and 10 grams. This range is relatively flexible and can be adjusted according to personal taste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, increase the tea quantity; conversely, reduce it for a milder taste. Specifically, beginners can start with 8 grams and gradually find their ideal tea quantity. Too much tea will make the…

Water pouring is the only step in tea brewing that requires complete manual control. The speed of pouring, the intensity of the water flow, the direction, height, and thickness of the water stream are all manually controlled but have a significant impact on the quality of the tea. Common methods of water pouring include: spiral pouring, circular pouring, single-point pouring on one side, and central point pouring. Common techniques for pouring water include: high pouring, high suspension, low pouring, and low suspension. Let’s take a look at these four methods and techniques to see how they work and what their characteristics are. The Four Methods of Water Pouring in Tea Brewing 01. Spiral Pouring This method ensures that the edges and the surface of the tea leaves in the gaiwan come into direct contact with the poured water, increasing the blend of tea and water at the moment of pouring. This pouring technique is suitable for black tea, green tea, and white tea. Or, when brewing later infusions where the flavor has become lighter, using spiral pouring can help the tea essence to release more quickly. 02. Circular Pouring As the name suggests, this involves pouring water in a circle…

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…

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…

Tea, an ancient and popular beverage, comes in many varieties, each requiring different brewing methods. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced tea enthusiast, mastering these methods will help you better enjoy the flavor and aroma of every cup. (Image source from the internet, delete upon request) Brewing Method for Green Tea Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has a fresh taste but can easily become bitter. To avoid this, pay attention to water temperature and steeping time. Water Temperature: 80-85°C (175-185°F) Steeping Time: 1-3 minutes Using lower temperature water and a shorter steeping time preserves the freshness and sweetness of green tea. If the leaves are steeped for too long, the tea will become bitter. Brewing Method for Black Tea Black tea has a robust flavor and is best brewed with hot water. Different types of black tea have distinct flavors, ranging from the malty taste of Assam to the fruity notes of Darjeeling. Water Temperature: 93-100°C (200-212°F) (Image source from the internet, delete upon request) Steeping Time: 4-5 minutes Brewing black tea with boiling water releases its rich flavors and aromas. Be careful not to exceed the recommended time, as the tea can become overly strong. Brewing…

The ideal brewing water temperature for green tea is around 80°C. The brewing time can vary depending on the type of tea and the purpose of brewing. For brewing where the tea leaves are separated from the water, we recommend steeping for 15 seconds for the first infusion, 20 seconds for the second, 30 seconds for the third, and 40 seconds for the fourth. This method results in a better-tasting tea without compromising the nutritional value of the leaves. What is the Suitable Brewing Temperature for Green Tea? 1. The water temperature for brewing varies with the type of tea. For high-quality green teas, especially those with fine and tender buds, use boiling water that has cooled to around 80-85°C. Higher temperatures can destroy vitamin C in the tea and cause caffeine to leach out, making the tea yellow and more bitter. 2. If you are selling tea and want to showcase its aroma, flavor, and appearance to customers immediately, you should use boiling water at 100°C. 3. When enjoying tea with friends, use water at 80-85°C to bring out the unique strong aroma and fresh, smooth taste, along with a light green color. Take your time to appreciate the…

Brewing the same Pu'er tea using different techniques often yields different experiences. If you're frustrated by not being able to bring out the true essence of the tea, try varying your brewing technique in response to its strengths and weaknesses. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you discover along the way. Six Ways to Brew Pu'er Tea 1. Gung Fu Brewing Method: This method is similar to how oolong tea is brewed, with all the tea liquor drained from each infusion, leaving no residue. This allows for a good appreciation of the changes in the water path of a tea, checking its durability and experiencing the changes in color, aroma, and taste with each infusion. 2. Root-Left Brewing Method: After rinsing the tea, always leave some of the infused tea liquor in the teapot, not completely emptying it. Typically, this involves leaving 20% and pouring out 80%, or sometimes leaving half and pouring out half. After pouring out the tea, add more water until the tea becomes light in flavor—then, you can steep it for longer periods. The root-left brewing method helps regulate the taste of the tea from start to finish, making the changes between infusions less abrupt.…

Tea, low in sugar content, contains beneficial components such as amino acids, vitamins, and tea polyphenols, which are beneficial to human health. However, every coin has two sides, and the principle of 'too much of anything is bad' applies here too. If tea is consumed improperly, it can have adverse effects on the body. Drinking tea can help reduce the occurrence of kidney stones, a fact that many tea enthusiasts are familiar with. However, drinking tea incorrectly not only fails to protect your kidneys but can also harm them. If you find yourself in any of the following situations, we advise you to avoid them to prevent damage to your health. Drinking tea while consuming alcohol can harm your kidneys. Some believe that drinking strong tea after alcohol consumption can help sober up, but this is a misconception. Drinking tea alone will not harm your kidneys, but if you drink tea while consuming alcohol or use strong tea to sober up, there is a risk of kidney damage. This is because when alcohol enters the liver, it is broken down into water and carbon dioxide through enzymatic action and then excreted by the kidneys. Theobromine in tea has a diuretic…

The dog days of 2023 are already halfway through, and there can't be many people who don't know about the benefits of drinking hot tea during this period. Today, I'll explain it to you in detail. The specific schedule for the dog days of 2023 is as follows: Early Dog Days: July 11, 2023 - July 20, 2023, a total of 10 days; Middle Dog Days: July 21, 2023 - August 9, 2023, a total of 20 days; Late Dog Days: August 10, 2023 - August 19, 2023, a total of 10 days. According to traditional wisdom, the "fu" in "dog days" refers to "latent evil," specifically the heat evil among the so-called "six evils." After the onset of the dog days, people often feel irritable, tired, and have poor appetites due to the scorching weather. A cup of hot tea can promote blood circulation, open up the skin's pores, help sweat evaporate, and achieve the effect of dissipating heat and dispelling summer heat. Tea contains large amounts of vitamins and mineral elements, as well as caffeine, tea polyphenols, and aromatic substances that blend into the tea infusion. These components are beneficial for regulating body temperature via the central nervous…

What is Kudzu Flower Tea? Kudzu flower tea is a type of tea made from kudzu flowers. Kudzu itself is a Chinese medicinal herb commonly used to treat various health issues. Kudzu flower tea has gained popularity among health enthusiasts in recent years due to its unique aroma and refreshing taste. Not only does it have a fresh flavor, but it is also rich in numerous nutrients and has significant health benefits. (Image source: network, delete upon infringement) Main Components and Benefits of Kudzu Flower Tea Kudzu flower tea contains abundant flavonoids, isoflavones, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Flavonoids have strong antioxidant effects, which can help eliminate free radicals in the body and slow down the aging process. Isoflavones help regulate female hormones, alleviate symptoms of menopause, and promote bone density. In addition, kudzu flower tea has several notable benefits: 1. Improves Blood Circulation and Metabolism The active ingredients in kudzu flower tea can dilate blood vessels, improve blood circulation, and enhance the efficiency of oxygen and nutrient delivery in the blood. This is very helpful for boosting metabolism, enhancing physical strength, and resistance. 2. Relieves Fatigue and Increases Stamina Long-term consumption of kudzu flower tea can effectively relieve physical…

Understanding Longans Longans, also known as dragon eyes, are sweet-tasting, nutrient-rich fruits. They can be enjoyed directly or used as a great ingredient for brewing tea. Longan tea is beneficial for nourishing the blood, calming the mind, improving sleep quality, and boosting immunity, making it an excellent choice for daily health maintenance. Want to know what pairs best with longans in tea? Below, we explore several classic combinations of longan tea, offering you more options and inspiration. (Image source: Internet, delete if infringement) Longan and Red Date Tea The combination of longans and red dates is truly a classic among classics. Red dates have the effects of replenishing energy, nourishing the blood, and moisturizing dryness. Together, they create a sweet taste and rich nutritional value. This blend is especially suitable for women, effectively relieving fatigue and regulating vital energy and blood. (Image source: Internet, delete if infringement) Preparation Method: 1. Take an appropriate amount of dried longan flesh and dried red dates. 2. Wash the red dates, remove the pits, and slice them. 3. Place the longan flesh and red date slices together in a cup, pour boiling water over them. 4. Cover the cup and steep for 10 minutes…

Ancient warriors all had their unique weapons that, when revealed, made it clear who they were and how powerful. Today, while we no longer live in a world of sword fights and storms, having a unique tool can still give you an edge in modern life. A photography app can instantly enhance your beauty; a kitchen gadget makes chopping and mixing easy... And tea drinking is no different. To enjoy a cup of excellent tea, one tool – the kettle – becomes our tea-brewing magic, helping us bring out the best in the tea leaves and providing a unique experience. Additionally, the pursuit of different types of kettles has gradually evolved into a kettle culture, adding more joy to our tea lives. However, with so many types of tea kettles available on the market and differing preferences, let's explore how these magical kettles can become our brewing tools. To enjoy a cup of excellent tea, one tool – the kettle – becomes our tea-brewing magic, helping us bring out the best in the tea leaves and providing a unique experience. Additionally, the pursuit of different types of kettles has gradually evolved into a kettle culture, adding more joy to our…

Yunnan Black, also known as Dian Hong, is a type of black tea from Yunnan. The recommended amount for brewing is 4 to 5 grams, which can be infused more than 10 times, depending on individual drinking habits. Use water at around 80 to 83 degrees Celsius (first boil the water to a full rolling boil, then let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly to about 80 degrees Celsius; do not add cold or unboiled water). The infusion should be quick, with the first to third infusions steeped for just one second. The first infusion is for rinsing the tea, and starting from the fourth infusion, gradually increase the steeping time to 3 seconds, 5 seconds, 8 seconds, etc., without covering the vessel. How Many Infusions Can Yunnan Black Tea Typically Stand? The number of infusions that Yunnan Black tea can stand depends on the age and processing method of the leaves. Generally speaking, when brewed in a gaiwan, Yunnan Black tea can withstand at least six infusions. High-quality Yunnan Black can withstand more than ten infusions. "Dian Hong," the black tea produced in Yunnan Province, features robust and tightly rolled dry leaves with prominent golden tips,…

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…

Understanding Your Tea Drinking tea is not just a daily habit, but also an art of living. Whether you are new to tea or have some experience, the right brewing method can enhance your enjoyment of its aroma and flavor. Today, let's explore how to brew tea correctly, from selecting the tea to the final savoring, with each step being crucial. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Green Tea Green tea is unfermented, preserving the natural components of the tea leaves. Representative green teas include Longjing, Biluochun, and Mao Feng. The tea liquor brewed from green tea is clear, with a fresh and refreshing taste and a light, delicate fragrance. Black Tea Black tea is fully fermented, with a darker color, bright red liquor, and a rich taste. Common black teas include Keemun, Darjeeling, and Assam. Oolong Tea Oolong tea lies between green and black tea, as it is partially fermented. There are many types of oolong tea, such as Tieguanyin, Dahongpao, and Wuyi Rock Tea. The tea liquor is golden yellow, fragrant, and has a rich taste. White Tea White tea is the least fermented, with a simple production process involving only withering and drying. Representative white teas include…

Why is Water Temperature So Important for Lapsang Souchong? Lapsang Souchong is a unique type of black tea, beloved by tea enthusiasts for its distinctive aroma and flavor. However, brewing Lapsang Souchong is not as simple as pouring hot water; the temperature plays a crucial role. The right temperature maximizes the release of the tea's aroma and taste, allowing you to enjoy a perfect cup of black tea. (Image source: network, delete upon request) The Optimal Water Temperature for Brewing Lapsang Souchong The optimal water temperature for brewing Lapsang Souchong is typically between 90°C and 95°C. This temperature range fully releases the aromatic compounds and polyphenols in the leaves, resulting in a richly fragrant and full-bodied tea. If the water is too hot, it can destroy the delicate compounds in the leaves, leading to a bitter taste; if the water is too cold, it cannot adequately extract the active ingredients, making the tea bland and tasteless. (Image source: network, delete upon request) How to Control the Water Temperature Use a Thermometer: The most direct method is to use a thermometer to ensure the water temperature is between 90°C and 95°C. Observe the State of the Water: If you don't have…

Brown Mountain ancient tree ripe tea is characterized by its high aroma, rich flavor, bright red infusion color, and high durability when brewed. The brewing method for Brown Mountain Pu'er ripe tea is simple and can generally follow the normal brewing method for ripe tea. How to Brew Brown Mountain Ripe Tea 1. Warm the teapot and clean the utensils 2. Use a ratio of 1:40 (for a 100 ml small teapot, use 2.5 grams, and adjust according to personal taste) 3. Rinse the tea with boiling water for 5 seconds and discard the rinse water 4. For the first five infusions, pour boiling water and immediately decant the tea 5. After the fifth infusion, extend the steeping time as needed 6. You can also add osmanthus or dried tangerine peel to enhance the flavor Ripe Pu'er tea itself has the effects of warming, nourishing, and strengthening the stomach. Firstly, it aids digestion, so its primary benefit is enhancing appetite and promoting digestion. It is suitable for those with cold stomachs, discomfort in the stomach, and works very well for warming, nourishing the stomach, and relieving indigestion.

As spring returns to the earth, early spring green tea is being harvested in many places, and tea lovers can't wait to buy and taste the new batches. So why is early spring green tea considered good? 1. As temperatures gradually rise in spring, rainfall is relatively abundant. Additionally, after a period of rest during winter, tea plants produce lush shoots with vibrant green color, soft leaves, and a rich content of natural compounds. 2. With relatively low spring temperatures, there's an increased synthesis and accumulation of nitrogen-containing compounds. At the beginning of spring, amino acids gather in large quantities at the tips of young shoots, which results in a strong aroma and fresh, pleasant taste that also offers health benefits. 3. The low temperatures in spring slow down metabolism and reduce the presence of tea polyphenols, anthocyanins, and alcohols, aldehydes, and acids, thus making the tea less bitter. 4. Due to the low temperatures and fewer pests and diseases, farmers generally do not use pesticides on early spring teas, ensuring they are minimally contaminated with chemicals. While early spring tea is excellent, please be aware of the following precautions: 1. Although early spring tea is delicious, don't rush to…

The scorching summer is the most unbearable time of the year, causing inexplicable irritability. At such a moment, sipping on a cup of Pu'er ripened tea is an exquisite pleasure. Some say that drinking green tea helps to quench internal heat in summer, while drinking black tea and Pu'er tea promotes health in winter. So, is it suitable to drink such a warming Pu'er ripened tea in the scorching summer? Some even directly put ripened Pu'er tea on the "blacklist" of summer beverages, but this is not the case! Ripened Pu'er tea, after undergoing pile fermentation, has a mild nature and a mellow, smooth taste. Drinking ripened Pu'er tea in summer can warm the body and dispel dampness, quench thirst, warm and protect the stomach, and promote sleep at the same time. Who is Suitable to Drink Pu'er Ripened Tea in Summer 1. Overweight People In summer, overweight people are more suited to drink Pu'er ripened tea. The caffeine, vitamins, amino acids, phospholipids, and other components in Pu'er tea help with digestion and have a significant effect in inhibiting the increase of abdominal fat. The tea is rich in vitamin B1, which is essential for burning fat and converting it…

Hello! Want to know how much Huangshan Maofeng tea costs per pound? Let’s find out! Huangshan Maofeng, a top-tier tea, boasts an enticing aroma and refreshing taste that lingers on the palate. Its unique quality and origin have made it famous far and wide. So, what is the price of Huangshan Maofeng? Let’s explore! What Factors Influence the Price of Huangshan Maofeng? To understand the price of Huangshan Maofeng, we first need to look at the factors that influence its cost. 1. Origin: Huangshan Maofeng is produced in the Huangshan region of Anhui Province, China. The climate and soil conditions here directly impact the quality and price of the tea. 2. Picking Season: The picking season for tea leaves is another significant factor affecting the price. Generally, spring-picked tea has better quality and commands a higher price. (Image source: Internet, for removal upon request) 3. Manufacturing Process: The unique manufacturing process of Huangshan Maofeng not only retains the freshness and taste but also elevates the price of the tea. 4. Market Demand: Market demand is also a critical factor in determining the price of tea. If there is high demand for Huangshan Maofeng, prices will naturally rise. What is the…

Green tea should not be brewed with boiling water at 100°C. Green tea is an unfermented tea that retains the natural components and green hue of the fresh leaves. Using boiling water can cause an overly rich release of nutrients from the green tea, potentially destroying some of these nutrients, and diminish its value for drinking. What is the Suitable Water Temperature for Brewing Green Tea? The water temperature for brewing green tea should be controlled between 80 to 85°C. Green tea is an unfermented tea made by picking tender buds and leaves, then undergoing processes such as fixation, shaping, and drying. This preserves the natural substances and green hue of the fresh leaves, which are delicate in nature. If the water temperature is too high during the brewing process, it can destroy the nutrients in the green tea, causing the flavor to become excessively bitter and astringent. Additionally, this may result in a too concentrated tea infusion, which could be burdensome for the body after consumption. Green tea can be brewed both hot and cold. When cold-brewing green tea, the water temperature should be around 4°C (ambient temperature), and the tea should be refrigerated for 6 to 8 hours…

When brewing tea, you may occasionally encounter a situation where the water taste is prominent. What causes this? It is mainly due to the impact of water on the tea brewing process. So what effects do water quality and water temperature have on tea brewing? Why does tea have a strong water taste when brewed? Here are some reasons: 1. Hard Water Quality The hardness of the water affects the solubility of compounds in the tea leaves. Soft water has a higher solubility, resulting in a stronger tea flavor. Hard water contains more calcium, magnesium ions, and minerals, leading to lower solubility and thus a weaker tea flavor. Therefore, we should try to choose soft water and avoid using high-hardness water like well water for tea brewing. 2. Low Water Temperature The solubility of tea is proportional to the water temperature. If the water temperature used for brewing is too low, the amount of compounds dissolved from the tea leaves will be small, leading to an insufficient tea flavor and a more pronounced water taste. There's no need to overly worry about high temperatures destroying vitamins in tea, as the stability of vitamins in tea is relatively high, and the…

Tea, by nature, is cold and can help clear the mind and soothe the spirit. Different people have different constitutions, which means they should drink different types of tea. Therefore, choosing the right tea and drinking it well starts with understanding the nature of the tea and the suitable groups of people for each type. Nature of Teas 01 Green Tea: The core process is "fixation," making its nature cold. People with a hot constitution, high stomach fire, or abundant energy can benefit from drinking green tea, as it has great effects in clearing heat, refreshing the mind, and boosting alertness. Green tea also has excellent radiation protection benefits, making it ideal for those who work on computers. White Tea: The core process involves "withering and sun drying" followed by natural storage, which transforms the tea's nature from cold to cool and then to mild. Fresh white teas share many properties with green tea, but the most significant difference is that while aged green tea becomes like grass, aged white tea becomes even more precious. As it ages, old white tea becomes even milder, making it suitable for a wider range of people. Oolong Tea (Blue Tea): The core process…