Brew Tea

Embrace the Magic of Flower Tea Flower tea is not just a beverage, it's a way of life. Whether you're seeking relaxation or simply enjoying its taste, brewing a cup of flower tea is a delight. Here, we will detail how to brew flower tea correctly so that you can enjoy a perfect cup every time. Select High-Quality Flower Tea Ingredients To brew a delicious cup of flower tea, you must start with high-quality ingredients. Whether it's rose, jasmine, or chrysanthemum tea, choose those with bright colors, intact petals, and rich fragrance. This ensures both great taste and additional health benefits. Prepare Suitable Water Quality and Temperature The quality of water used for brewing flower tea is crucial. It's best to use purified or mineral water to avoid the chlorine and impurities found in tap water, which can affect the taste of the tea. Water temperature is also key; different types of flower tea require varying temperatures. Generally, the ideal brewing temperature for flower tea is between 80°C and 90°C, ensuring the aroma and nutrients are preserved without being damaged. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringement occurs.) Master the Proper Amount of Tea Leaves The amount of tea leaves…

Each type of tea has a specific suitable water temperature for brewing; some types must be steeped directly in boiling water, while others require cooling before steeping, or they will taste unpleasant. However, many seasoned tea drinkers believe that regardless of the type of tea, it should always be steeped in boiling water to bring out its aroma. If you were to say your tea cannot be steeped in boiling water, then sorry, they would immediately assume it is not of good quality. There is indeed a saying: "Good tea isn't afraid of being scalded by boiling water." Is this really true? 01. Why Isn't Good Tea Afraid of Being Scalded by Boiling Water? Judging whether something is "good tea" is subjective for everyone. Good tea is relative, but if we are objective, good tea is determined by good raw materials and good processing methods. If these two conditions are met, the quality of the tea is generally assured. Good raw materials determine that the tea leaves contain abundant substances, are resistant to brewing and can withstand high temperatures without revealing their true colors with just one steeping; good processing ensures stable extraction rates, and if there are issues with…

Chenpi, or tangerine peel, is widely used in daily life. It can be combined with various teas, adjust flavors in dishes, and even harmonize different medicines. In Guangdong Province, its importance is even more pronounced as it is commonly used for infusing water, making tea, and preparing soups. As the saying goes, “An ounce of chenpi is worth an ounce of gold.” When purchasing chenpi, do you know how to properly infuse it? After all, only by using the correct method can its full benefits be released, allowing us to better appreciate its taste. Here, we will share a few detailed methods for infusing chenpi, which are very simple: Infusing Tea Method For chenpi aged less than five years, this method is suitable. Once the water boils, rinse the tea utensils first to increase their temperature. Then place the chenpi into a lidded bowl and pour boiling water over it. The first infusion should last three minutes to allow the aroma of the chenpi to permeate the tea. The subsequent infusions can be for one minute each, and then 30 seconds thereafter. Remember to cover the bowl while infusing to retain the aroma and ensure a sweet and smooth flavor.…

"Nourish Yang in spring and summer, and Yin in autumn and winter." According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), once we enter spring and summer, it's the time for our body's Yang energy to rise. While "purging fire," we also need "clearing and tonifying." It's okay to have some cold food during hot weather, but we shouldn't overindulge as it can deplete our Yang energy. In the height of summer to beat the heat, it is advisable to "use heat to counteract heat." Hot tea is the best beverage to cool down on a hot day. Today, I'm sharing 11 teas that help you beat the summer heat, reduce dampness, and are perfect for summertime: 1/ Honey Pomelo Tea Honey pomelo tea combines the benefits of pomelo, honey, and black or green tea. Pomelo is rich in vitamin C, which helps alleviate melanin buildup. Its peel acts as a natural fragrance, refreshing the air. A cup of honey pomelo tea can lift your mood and relax your body and mind. 2/ Jasmine Tea Jasmine tea is great for calming the nerves. A cup in the drowsy afternoon can invigorate the spirit, clear heat and relieve summer heat, strengthen the spleen and…

When it comes to materials for brewing tea, many people think of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel. However, in recent years, a material called PPSU has started to gain attention. Can PPSU material be used for brewing tea? This article will explore this question in detail and provide you with some practical advice. (Image source from the Internet, delete if infringing) What is PPSU Material? PPSU, which stands for polyphenylsulfone, is a high-performance thermoplastic. It has excellent impact resistance, chemical resistance, and heat resistance. PPSU is commonly used in medical devices, food containers, and aerospace applications because it can withstand high-temperature sterilization without releasing harmful substances. Safety of PPSU Material PPSU material is widely used in the medical field, such as surgical instruments and sterilization trays, indicating its performance under high temperatures and harsh conditions. According to available data, PPSU can withstand temperatures up to 180°C and has good hydrolytic stability and chemical resistance:citation[oaicite:0]{index=0}. These properties ensure that PPSU remains stable in hot water and steam environments, without breaking down or releasing harmful substances. Can PPSU Material Be Used for Brewing Tea? Based on the characteristics of PPSU, the answer is yes. PPSU material can withstand the high temperatures required…

"Throughout history, poets have been tea connoisseurs, toasting their friends with a cup of clear tea." In China's thousands of years of history, the humble tea leaf has played an indispensable role. Among the seven refined pursuits of life—music, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, wine, and tea—one cannot do without tea! The tea mountains are filled with verdant green after a whole winter of rest and accumulation. It seems that the fragrance of tea wafts from the tenderest and most vibrant branches among the leaves, its subtle aroma enchanting and intoxicating. Spring breezes are delightful, but nothing compares to sipping a cup of spring tea, lost in its floral splendor. What is Pre-Ming Tea? "Pre-Ming Tea" and "Pre-Rain Tea" are terms used in the Jiangnan tea region along the Yangtze River to refer to different stages of spring tea based on seasonal divisions. Due to the climate in the Jiangnan area, some early-emerging tea varieties begin sprouting around the Awakening of Insects and Spring Equinox. Thus, tea harvested before the Qingming Festival is called "Pre-Ming Tea." The appeal of "Pre-Ming Tea" has always been due to its high quality and relative scarcity. Its excellence lies in the tenderness of its buds…

It's often said that the more you drink tea, the more discerning your palate becomes. The term “discerning” here refers to being overly selective, and this trait can be observed in both drinking tea and eating meals. But is becoming more discerning with tea a good thing or a bad thing? Today, Cup Xiaocha would like to hear what tea enthusiasts think. There are two main ways in which one’s palate becomes more discerning with tea. Firstly, the variety of teas consumed increases. For example, one might start by drinking green tea but then gradually explore new flavors, such as black tea, Pu'er, and Oolong. Eating the same dishes every day can indeed become tiresome; regularly changing the menu keeps things interesting. After drinking Oolong tea, there might come a time when one wants to return to green tea, thus continually rotating between different types. Secondly, the quality of tea consumed improves. Quality, simply put, is closely tied to price. When starting with Oolong tea, one might not be able to distinguish between good and bad teas, but over time, their ability to appreciate tea grows. They develop preferences for specific varieties and origins and form their own opinions on…

Raw Pu'er tea is characterized by its sweetness, softness, thickness, aroma, and mellow taste. Its aftertaste is strong and long-lasting, and the tea soup is smooth and delicate with a high viscosity. The flavor is harmonious, full-bodied, and rich. The tea has ample energy and vitality. Raw Pu'er is a type of Pu'er tea that comes in compressed and loose forms. To brew raw Pu'er tea, attention should be paid to the amount of tea used, brewing technique, and infusion time to avoid overly concentrated and heavy tea. The Correct Way to Drink Raw Pu'er Tea 1. Water for Brewing Pu'er Tea and Temperature: Use mineral water or purified water, with a temperature between 90°C and 100°C (boiling water). 2. Amount of Tea Used: Gently pry off layers of the compressed tea cake (tuocha, brick) using a tea knife. Adjust the quantity according to the number of people drinking. For a small group, use 8-10 grams of Pu'er tea; for a larger group, use 15-20 grams. 3. Awakening the Tea: Place the tea leaves into the teapot and pour in hot water (this not only awakens the tea but also helps clean it). Then discard the water. 4. Control the…

Drinking tea benefits health, especially when consumed consistently over time. However, it should be based on the principle of "drinking tea reasonably." To truly enjoy good tea, there are certain rules to follow, which vary depending on the person, the time, and the occasion. 1. Choose Your Tea Based on Personal Constitution The value of tea lies in its suitability for you. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, human constitutions can be categorized as hot or cold. Therefore, choosing the right tea according to one's constitution is essential. Generally, individuals with a normal constitution can drink most types of tea without concern, but for specific groups, selecting the right type of tea can make a difference. Those who smoke or drink alcohol regularly, tend to get overheated easily, have a fiery disposition, or are overweight usually have a heaty constitution and should opt for green tea, new white tea, or lightly fermented oolong tea; Seniors, those with a cold and weak digestive system, or people with a generally weak constitution typically have a cold constitution and are particularly suited to drinking black tea and ripe Pu'er. 2. Adjust Your Tea Based on the Time of Year Generally, the types of tea consumed…

Brewing a perfect cup of black tea not only brings delicious enjoyment but can also energize your day. Whether you're a newcomer to black tea or an experienced tea enthusiast, this article will guide you through the simple and precise steps to brew a delicious cup of black tea. (Image source from the internet; please delete if infringement occurs) Select High-Quality Tea Leaves First, choosing high-quality black tea is the foundation of brewing a good cup of tea. There are many types of black tea on the market, including Assam, Darjeeling, and Ceylon teas. You can choose the suitable leaves based on your taste preferences. If you prefer a robust flavor, you can choose Assam tea; for a lighter taste, try Darjeeling tea. Use Suitable Water Quality The quality of water greatly affects the taste of tea. Using purified water, filtered water, or spring water is the best choice, avoiding distilled water and tap water as they can affect the natural flavor of the tea. Heat the water to 212°F (100°C), which is the optimal temperature for brewing black tea. (Image source from the internet; please delete if infringement occurs) Prepare the Correct Tea-to-Water Ratio To achieve the best flavor,…

White tea can typically be boiled, and by doing so with clear water, the nutrients within the leaves are released, making them easier for the body to absorb. Drinking white tea can also help in managing blood pressure and sugar levels, so it is beneficial to consume it in moderation as part of your daily routine. Is White Tea Best Enjoyed Boiled? White tea is a slightly fermented tea and a traditional type of Chinese tea, rich in nutrients such as polyphenols and vitamins. Boiling white tea is relatively simple; take an appropriate amount of white tea leaves and place them in a glass container. Then, use clear water to brew and boil the leaves for about three minutes before drinking. Moderate consumption can promote blood circulation and help lower cholesterol levels in the blood, which is beneficial for controlling blood pressure. Additionally, white tea contains active enzymes that can aid in fat metabolism when consumed in moderation, helping with the breakdown of sugars and assisting in regulating blood sugar levels. It can also help with lowering blood sugar. Furthermore, white tea contains flavonoids, which can assist in eliminating free radicals from the body. However, it is recommended to drink…

Dragon Pearl tea is a form of Pu'er, similar to cake tea, brick tea, and tuo cha, representing an external presentation style. Typically 6-8 grams in size per piece, the tea is steamed and rolled into a spherical shape before being wrapped in paper. It shares similarities with small green tangerine teas, with one pearl per serving, making it convenient for carrying. Due to its portability, it has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many tea makers in Yunnan producing these pearls. Dragon Pearls preserve the traditional handcrafted form of compressed Pu'er tea while also catering to the modern lifestyle's need for convenience. As their popularity grows, how should one brew Dragon Pearls? Brewing Steps for Dragon Pearl Tea 1. Prepare the tea and utensils: Get ready with one Dragon Pearl, a gaiwan, a pitcher, tasting cups, etc. 2. Warm the vessels: Rinse all tea ware with boiling water. 3. Add the tea: Unwrap the Dragon Pearl and place it in the gaiwan. 4. Pour water: Slowly pour hot water along the sides of the gaiwan (avoid pouring directly onto the Dragon Pearl). 5. Rinse the tea: Discard the first infusion and wait a moment to allow the Dragon…

The challenge in brewing Pu'er tea lies in its vast variety and ever-changing characteristics. Each time you brew Pu'er, the shape, age, and features seem different. This is the nature of Pu'er tea. To brew it well, you need to understand these factors: Newly Produced Sheng Pu'er (Raw) In terms of nature, newly produced Sheng Pu'er is similar to green tea. When brewing, avoid a cooked or over-steeped flavor by using slightly lower water temperature and a quick pour-off. The key is to grasp the characteristics of the raw materials, such as the tea tree variety, region, age of the trees, and the ecosystem. In principle, teas with strong flavors require slightly cooler water and shorter steeping times, while those with lighter flavors are the opposite. Newly Produced Shou Pu'er (Ripe) Compared to older teas, new Shou Pu'er often has some less desirable qualities, like a murky infusion, an impure aroma, and a less refined taste, along with off-flavors like the "pile" smell and strong bitterness. Since the water-soluble compounds in new Shou Pu'er dissolve quickly, you should aim to highlight its strengths and minimize its weaknesses by using high-temperature rinses to remove unwanted flavors, slightly cooler water for brewing,…

The Charm of the Gaiwan A gaiwan is a traditional tea vessel with a long history, consisting of a bowl, a lid, and a saucer. Not only is it elegant in appearance, but it is also highly functional. Using a gaiwan for brewing tea allows better control over the steeping time, maximizing the release of the tea's aroma and flavor. Many people enjoy using a gaiwan because it provides a serene and relaxing experience. (Image source from the internet; please delete if infringing) Steps to Brew Tea with a Gaiwan Prepare the Tea Utensils: First, you need a clean gaiwan, a teapot, and a teacup. Ensure all the utensils are clean so as not to affect the taste of the tea with other impurities. Warm the Utensils: Before using the gaiwan to brew tea, rinse it and the teacup with hot water. This not only cleans the utensils but also raises their temperature, making the brewed tea more fragrant and rich. Place the Tea Leaves: Depending on the type of tea and personal preference, place an appropriate amount of tea leaves into the gaiwan. Generally, less tea is used when brewing with a gaiwan compared to a teapot due to…

Hello everyone! Today, let’s talk about how to brew Bulang ancient tree tea. Bulang ancient tree tea is loved by many tea enthusiasts for its unique aroma and taste. However, to fully appreciate the best flavor of Bulang ancient tree tea, the brewing method is crucial. In the following, I will introduce in detail the brewing method of Bulang ancient tree tea, hoping to help every tea enthusiast. (Image source: network, delete upon request) What is Bulang Ancient Tree Tea? Bulang ancient tree tea is a type of Pu'er tea, produced in Bulang Mountain, Xishuangbanna Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The ancient tea trees here have a long history, with most being several hundred years old. The leaves of Bulang ancient tree tea are thick and glossy, with a high aroma and rich taste that lingers pleasantly, making it much loved by tea enthusiasts. Preparation of Tools for Brewing Bulang Ancient Tree Tea Before brewing Bulang ancient tree tea, we need to prepare some tools: Teapot or Gaiwan: It is recommended to use a clay teapot or white porcelain Gaiwan, as these can better bring out the aroma of the tea leaves. Teacups: Choose white porcelain teacups, which allow you to better…

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…

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…

Brewing a good pot of tea is not just a simple process; it’s a way to enjoy life. Pu'er Tuocha (ripe) is particularly loved for its unique fermentation process and rich taste. So, how can you brew a fragrant pot of Pu'er Tuocha (ripe)? Let’s explore together! (Image source: internet, delete if infringing) What is Pu'er Tuocha (Ripe)? Before understanding how to brew Pu'er Tuocha (ripe), let's first get to know what it is. Pu'er Tuocha is a special form of Yunnan Pu'er tea, named after its shape. Pu'er tea is divided into raw and ripe varieties, with ripe Pu'er being processed through a piling fermentation technique, resulting in a mellow flavor, a red and rich infusion color, and a gentle nature that suits most people. Preparation Before Brewing To brew a good pot of Pu'er Tuocha (ripe), some preparations are necessary. (Image source: internet, delete if infringing) Selecting the Tea Good tea leaves are the foundation of brewing good tea. When choosing Pu'er Tuocha (ripe), select leaves that are neatly arranged and have a dark luster. The longer the tea has aged, the richer the flavor will be. Water Quality The quality of water used for brewing is equally…

Green tea is a widely popular beverage both domestically and internationally, known for its unique fragrance and fresh, refreshing taste. When brewing green tea, use water at an appropriate temperature — not too high — to fully release the aroma and flavor of the tea leaves. Additionally, do not steep the tea for too long to avoid bitterness from over-infusion. Drinking green tea in moderation not only provides a pleasant taste but also benefits health. How to Brew Green Tea Best To brew green tea best: 1) Warm the cup by placing the glass cup into a tea washer and pouring boiling water over it to clean and warm the cup; 2) Rinse the tea by adding 3-5g of green tea with a tea spoon into the glass cup and infusing it with water at 80-85°C, stirring the tea quickly and discarding the infusion after 3 seconds; 3) Steep the tea by continuing to pour hot water into the cup and waiting patiently for 1-2 minutes before drinking. 1) Warm the cup Before brewing green tea, place the glass cup into a tea washer and pour boiling water over it to clean and warm the cup. Alternatively, you can place…

The Spring Festival is over. I wonder how all you tea enthusiasts spent your holidays? I bet you enjoyed a lot of great food and drinks. However, during the Spring Festival, indulging in feasts, staying up all night, and other activities might have put quite a strain on your body. If you learn to brew some health-promoting teas, they can help you better adjust after the holiday period. Therefore, that first cup of tea after the festival is very important for us. 01 Say Goodbye to Gastrointestinal Stress Pu'er tea has the effects of nourishing the stomach, regulating the intestines, clearing turbidity, and removing greasiness. Mature Pu'er tea or aged raw tea has a relatively mild nature, which can nourish and protect the stomach, especially for people with stomach problems. After the three festivals, consuming a large amount of high-calorie foods can lead to indigestion. At this time, it's even more important to take care of your stomach. 02 Banish Spring Drowsiness and Fatigue Spring is a good season for health preservation. During spring, people often drink more floral teas, which can help improve physical fitness and enhance the constitution. If one takes good care of their body in spring,…

White tea, often referred to as "one-year tea, three-year medicine, seven-year treasure." It embodies the principle of moderation in taste, featuring the floral fragrance of oolong tea, the sweet richness of black tea, the fresh aroma of green tea, and the medicinal scent and jujube fragrance of aged white tea. How should you brew it? Here are four methods for brewing white tea. To brew white tea well, first master these three key factors: the grade, age, and form of the tea. For new loose leaf white tea and Silver Needle, start at 85°C; adjust the water temperature by 3-5 degrees based on the coarseness of the leaves. When brewing new tea or tea buds, avoid pouring the water directly onto the leaves; instead, pour along the sides of the cup. For aged teas, compressed cakes, and bricks, boiling water can be used for brewing or cooking the tea. The Brewing Methods for White Tea: 1. Gaiwan Brewing Method for White Tea Suitable for: Silver Needle, White Peony, and new white tea. Tea-to-Water Ratio: 1:30. Water Temperature: 85-90°C. Steps: Warm the cups and utensils, add the tea, pour hot water along the edges of the gaiwan, after 10 seconds, quickly…

Before brewing ripened Pu'er tea, first place a purple clay pot or a gaiwan in a tea washer. Remove the lid and pour 100°C boiling water into it, then cover and pour boiling water over the exterior. Use a tea tong to pick up teacups, placing them above the tea washer, and pour boiling water over them to sterilize. Next, use a tea knife or needle to pry about 6-8 grams of tea from a ripened Pu'er cake, with a tea-to-water ratio of 1:15 or 1:20. Place the tea on a tea scale, then use a tea spoon to transfer the tea leaves into the gaiwan or purple clay pot, pouring boiling water over them. Rinse new teas once, and older teas twice! Brew at 95-100 degrees Celsius to increase the smoothness of the tea liquor. When the flavor becomes lighter, you can increase the water temperature. Finally, you can even cook the tea leaves. Pu'er tea is a great health tea, rich in trace elements. Drinking Pu'er tea regularly not only replenishes necessary organic compounds but also boosts the immune system. Drinking this tea aids digestion and absorption and is particularly suitable for women. Pu'er tea is a post-fermented…

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.…

Pu'er tea cake is a traditional type of tea with a long history. Its unique flavor and health benefits have attracted many tea enthusiasts. The correct brewing method not only enhances the taste of the tea but also fully releases the distinctive aroma and nutritional components of Pu'er tea. This article will provide you with a detailed guide on how to correctly brew Pu'er tea cake, allowing you to enjoy a rich cup of Pu'er tea at home. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Preparation Before starting to brew Pu'er tea, you need to prepare the following tools and materials: Pu'er tea cake Tea knife or tea needle Teapot (Yixing clay pot or gaiwan recommended) Teacup Sieve (optional) Kettle for boiling water Water (mountain spring water or purified water recommended) Step One: Loosening the Tea First, use a tea knife or tea needle to gently loosen the tea cake. When loosening the tea, be mindful of the force applied to avoid breaking the tea leaves. Start from the edge of the tea cake and slowly loosen it along the texture of the leaves, removing an appropriate amount of tea. Typically, 5-8 grams of tea per brewing is sufficient. Step Two:…