Brew Tea

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…

Bai Mudan tea is renowned among tea enthusiasts for its unique aroma and taste. To fully experience the delightful flavors of Bai Mudan tea, the correct brewing method is crucial. This article will guide you through the proper way to brew Bai Mudan tea, ensuring that every cup delivers its best flavor. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Understanding Bai Mudan Tea Bai Mudan tea belongs to the category of Chinese white teas and is produced in the Fuding and Zhenghe regions of Fujian Province. It is made from one bud with two or three leaves, which have a white downy appearance, hence the name "Bai Mudan." This type of tea has a fresh floral fragrance and a sweet taste, with an attractive appearance. The brewed tea has a light yellow color that is clear and bright. Preparation To brew a good pot of Bai Mudan tea, preparation is very important. First, choose high-quality Bai Mudan tea leaves to ensure the best aroma and taste in the tea liquor. Suitable tea ware should also be prepared; porcelain or glass tea ware is typically recommended as it allows better observation of the tea leaves unfolding in the water and the color…

Bai Mudan tea, originating from Fujian Province in China, is beloved by tea enthusiasts for its unique floral fragrance and gentle taste. To brew a perfect cup of Bai Mudan tea, you need not only high-quality leaves but also the right brewing methods. In this article, we will detail the steps and techniques for brewing Bai Mudan tea, helping you enjoy this delicious beverage at home. (Image source: network; delete upon request) Understanding Bai Mudan Tea Bai Mudan tea is a type of white tea, which belongs to the minimally processed teas. It is made from the buds and leaves of the Da Bai (big white) or Shuixian (water nymph) tea plants, harvested when they are one bud and one leaf or one bud and two leaves. The appearance of Bai Mudan tea resembles petals, with silver-white buds interspersed with green leaves. The brewed tea has a clear and bright color, a distinctive aroma, and notes of floral and subtle fruity fragrances. Selecting High-Quality Bai Mudan Tea Leaves To brew a great-tasting cup of Bai Mudan tea, start by choosing quality leaves. High-quality Bai Mudan tea leaves have vibrant colors, intact buds and leaves, and carry a natural floral scent.…

Green tea can be used for Kung Fu tea brewing, but it is not very suitable because green tea brewing is relatively simple, whereas Kung Fu tea brewing involves more intricate procedures. Generally, it is considered unsuitable, as the process of brewing green tea is straightforward and less demanding. The ideal water temperature for Kung Fu tea is 100 degrees Celsius, while green tea does not require such high temperatures. Green tea can be used for Kung Fu tea brewing, but it is not very suitable because green tea brewing is relatively simple, whereas Kung Fu tea brewing involves more intricate procedures. Generally, it is considered unsuitable, as the process of brewing green tea is straightforward and less demanding. The ideal water temperature for Kung Fu tea is 100 degrees Celsius, while green tea does not require such high temperatures, which creates a conflict. Green Tea Brewing Techniques 1. Water Temperature: Generally recommended between 80°C to 85°C. If the exact temperature is difficult to gauge, you can boil the water (1-2L) and let it cool for 1 to 2 minutes. 2. Pouring Water: Use a hanging water method to pour along the side of the cup, avoiding direct impact on…

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…

In our busy lives, a fragrant cup of tea can bring moments of tranquility and relief. To brew a good cup of tea, it's essential to master some techniques and tips. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced tea enthusiast, this article will provide you with practical guidelines for brewing tea. (Image source from the internet, delete on infringement) Selecting High-Quality Tea Leaves To brew a great cup of tea, start by selecting high-quality tea leaves. The quality of the leaves, whether green tea, black tea, oolong tea, or Pu'er tea, directly affects the taste and aroma of the tea infusion. It is recommended to choose fresh, impurity-free leaves and avoid using tea that has been stored for a long time as it loses its original aroma and flavor over time. Water Quality and Temperature The quality of water has a significant impact on tea brewing; it is best to use mineral water or filtered water. Water temperature is also a critical factor, and different types of tea require different temperatures for brewing. For example: Green tea: water temperature between 158°F - 176°F (70°C - 80°C). Black tea: water temperature between 185°F - 203°F (85°C - 95°C). Oolong tea: water…

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…

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…

Hello everyone! Today, we're going to talk about one of the specialties of Guangdong — preserved tangerine peel tea. This tea not only has a pleasant aroma but also offers many health benefits. So, how do you brew preserved tangerine peel tea? Let's take a look together. (Image source: Internet; please delete if infringement occurs) Benefits and Effects of Preserved Tangerine Peel Tea Before we get into brewing, let's understand the benefits of preserved tangerine peel tea. Preserved tangerine peel is made from tangerine peels that have been aged for years and has the effects of regulating qi and strengthening the spleen, as well as dissolving phlegm and relieving coughs. Regular consumption can aid digestion, alleviate bloating, enhance immunity, and help the body detoxify. Selecting High-Quality Preserved Tangerine Peel To brew a good cup of tea, choosing the right ingredients is crucial. There are many types of preserved tangerine peel available on the market, but high-quality ones generally have a darker color, a natural luster, and a strong citrus scent. The older the preserved tangerine peel, the higher its medicinal value; it is recommended to choose those aged for over ten years. Brewing Method for Preserved Tangerine Peel Tea Now,…

Many people say that drinking tea at night will cause insomnia. Does drinking tea in the evening necessarily affect your sleep? Not necessarily. While it's true that tea can be invigorating, it can also have a calming effect. By adjusting the type of tea and how you drink it, you can avoid disrupting your sleep and may even improve its quality. Main reason for insomnia caused by tea: People often say that drinking tea causes insomnia because it contains caffeine, which can both energize and keep you awake. However, this is not always the case. The amount of caffeine in tea depends on many factors such as the variety of tea, growing conditions, harvest season, picking standards, processing methods, and brewing techniques. People also vary in their tolerance to caffeine based on their constitution and lifestyle. Some people find themselves tossing and turning after just a small cup of tea before bed, while others who regularly drink tea still enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. Here’s how to drink tea without causing insomnia: 1. Drink tea 3-5 hours before bedtime If you plan to go to bed at 11 PM, drink tea (after a meal) before 8 PM. This generally won’t…

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…

Brewing a cup of green tea is not just an enjoyment but also an art. Each step can influence the taste and aroma of the tea. Whether you are a green tea novice or an experienced practitioner, mastering the correct brewing steps will allow you to truly appreciate the charm of green tea. Let's explore together how to brew the perfect cup of green tea. (Image source from the internet, delete upon request) Selecting High-Quality Green Tea The first step in brewing good green tea is choosing high-quality tea leaves. There are many different types of green tea available on the market, such as Longjing, Biluochun, and Mao Feng. Selecting fresh green tea leaves is particularly important; new tea is usually picked in spring, with bright green leaves and a fresh aroma. When purchasing, it is recommended to choose well-known brands or buy directly from tea farmers to ensure the quality and freshness of the tea. Preparing the Appropriate Teaware The choice of teaware when brewing green tea is also very important. Common teaware includes glass cups, porcelain cups, and purple clay pots. Glass cups allow you to admire the beautiful process of the tea leaves unfolding in the water,…

Tea is a common beverage in our daily lives, but many people are unsure about how many times tea should be brewed. Some believe that tea can be brewed repeatedly, while others think once is enough. So, how many times is best to brew tea? Let's delve into this topic today. (Image source: internet, delete upon request) Types of Tea and Brewing Cycles Different types of tea have varying ideal brewing cycles. Green tea, black tea, oolong tea, Pu'er tea, and others will differ in their optimal number of brews due to their unique characteristics. Green Tea Green tea is unfermented and rich in various vitamins and antioxidants. Generally, the first brewing extracts 70%-80% of its nutritional components, making the first brew particularly important. The second brewing still offers good taste and aroma, but by the third brew, the flavor significantly diminishes. (Image source: internet, delete upon request) Black Tea Black tea is fully fermented, with a bright red infusion and a rich flavor. Black tea can generally be brewed 2-3 times, with the first and second brews offering the best aroma and taste, while the third is somewhat lighter. Oolong Tea Oolong tea is semi-fermented, falling between green and…

Brewing tea is an art, and brewing green tea with tea ware is one of its finest aspects. Green tea is beloved by tea enthusiasts for its fresh and delicate flavor and its rich nutritional value. Today, we will discuss how to brew a great cup of green tea using tea ware, making every tea-tasting experience enjoyable. (Image source from the web, delete upon infringement) Selecting Suitable Tea Ware The choice of tea ware for brewing green tea is very important. We usually select glass tea ware, white porcelain tea ware, or purple clay pots. Glass tea ware is translucent, allowing you to clearly observe the dance of the tea leaves in water. White porcelain tea ware preserves the original color and aroma of the tea leaves. Purple clay pots, due to their unique breathability and heat retention properties, are also suitable for brewing green tea. (Image source from the web, delete upon infringement) Selecting and Preparing the Tea Leaves There are many varieties of green tea, such as Longjing, Biluochun, and Maojian, each with its unique flavor. When selecting tea leaves, it is recommended to choose fresh leaves, as new tea has better aroma and taste. Take an appropriate…

Since ancient times, the Chinese people have had a profound connection with tea, evolving from consuming to drinking tea, and from cultivating, picking to processing it. The industrious and wise Chinese people, based on local conditions, have utilized core techniques such as fixation, withering, yellowing, oxidation, piling, fermentation, and scenting to develop six major types of tea - green, white, yellow, oolong, black, and dark teas - along with flower-scented teas and other processed teas, totaling thousands of varieties. In this deep-rooted relationship with tea, different tea-drinking and tea-meeting customs have been formed and passed down through generations. On November 29, 2022, China's "Traditional Chinese Tea Processing Techniques and Associated Customs" was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This entry encompasses 44 national-level intangible cultural heritage representative projects, including four traditional tea customs: Bai ethnic three-course tea, Yao ethnic oil tea, Tea Gathering Festival, and Jing Shan tea banquet. The Chinese tea culture is not only long-standing but also constantly renewed. To further enhance the recognition of Chinese tea customs and the entire Chinese tea culture, and to promote their protection, inheritance, development, and dissemination, the All-China Co-operative News·Tea Weekly has specially planned…

Green Tea Green tea is unfermented and consists of tender leaves, which require a lower water temperature for brewing. Generally, the optimal brewing temperature for green tea should be between 80°C and 85°C. If the water is too hot, it can destroy vitamin C and polyphenols in the tea, making the brew bitter. Therefore, it's recommended to boil the water first and then let it cool for a while until it reaches the appropriate temperature before steeping the green tea. (Image source: Internet, delete if infringement occurs) White Tea White tea is also unfermented and consists of delicate leaves, suitable for brewing at even lower temperatures. Typically, the best brewing temperature for white tea is between 70°C and 75°C. Higher temperatures can destroy the nutritional components of the white tea, causing the brew to lose its unique fragrance and sweetness. Oolong Tea Oolong tea lies between green and black teas as a partially fermented tea. Oolong tea requires slightly higher water temperatures, generally ranging from 80°C to 95°C. Higher temperatures can fully release the rich aroma and unique flavor of oolong tea, but they shouldn't be too high, as this could affect the freshness of the brew. (Image source: Internet,…

A small green tangerine can yield around 10 infusions. A single fruit can be continuously infused, but avoid using the small green tangerine the next day and try to consume it on the same day. When brewing a small green tangerine, pour hot water for the first infusion as a rinse, then directly infuse with boiling water afterward, with an ideal temperature of 100°C. Small green tangerines have the characteristic of becoming more fragrant over time, with a taste that is sweet, smooth, and leaves a lasting fragrance in the mouth. How Many Infusions Can You Get from a Small Green Tangerine? In my evaluation, I got 18 infusions, not counting the first rinse. The later infusions took a bit longer to steep. I directly poured hot water over the tangerine without steeping or boiling it. After 18 infusions, if you use a covered bowl and let it steep, you could likely get a few more infusions. So, a good small green tangerine can yield over 20 infusions, enough to last you most of the day. Brewing Methods for Small Green Tangerines First Method – Whole Fruit Brewing: 1. Open the packaging. 2. Remove the top cover of the tangerine…

After a busy day of work, it's finally time to rest. Many people have the habit of drinking tea in the evening, while others do not. Sometimes, one might suddenly feel like having tea at night. It is commonly believed that drinking tea before bed can cause insomnia, as tea contains caffeine which can keep you in an excited state and has a stimulating effect. Therefore, many fans of dark tea avoid drinking it in the evening for fear of sleepless nights. However, not all teas lead to insomnia. If you're wondering whether drinking dark tea affects sleep, well, it generally doesn't (results may vary from person to person). Dark tea is a low-caffeine health beverage (due to its high maturity of raw materials and roasting processes) and, compared to cola and other types of tea, it does not affect sleep. The raw materials for dark tea are relatively mature, and after initial processing, the caffeine content in dark tea is significantly lower than in other teas. Dark tea undergoes post-fermentation. Its production process focuses on refining rather than shaping. Dark tea is first roasted over a seven-star stove to enhance its aroma, then stomped by a team of seven…

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…

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…

Pu'er ripened tea has a mild nature and is less stimulating, drinking it can help warm and protect the stomach. In winter, it enhances the body's ability to adapt to cold weather. Aged tangerine peel also has a mild nature and can regulate qi and aid digestion, benefiting the spleen and stomach. Especially aged Xinhui tangerine peel with its strong citrus aroma and sweet, rich flavor, when paired with the robust flavor of ripened tea, creates an exquisite taste. Both aged tangerine peel and ripened tea share the quality characteristic of improving in aroma over time. Aged tangerine peel is an excellent choice. Apart from steeping, aged tangerine peel Pu'er can also be boiled, especially for aged varieties, which yield an even richer and smoother infusion after boiling. How should one boil aged tangerine peel Pu'er ripened tea for a better taste? 1. Boil dry tea leaves directly When boiling dry tea leaves, do not use too much tea; a ratio of 1:100 (1 gram of tea to 100 ml of water) is recommended. Before boiling, rinse the tea leaves once in a lidded bowl. Then, as the water begins to boil, add the rinsed tea leaves to the teapot…

Green tea can be brewed both cold and hot. Cold brewing is more suitable for hot weather, offering a refreshing taste that cools and quenches thirst. Hot brewing is part of many people's daily routine. Whether to choose hot or cold brewing ultimately depends on personal preference. Cold Brew or Hot Brew for Green Tea? While boiling water can quickly extract many nutrients from the tea leaves, the temperature of the hot water and the duration of boiling can affect the taste and color of the tea, which is why some people find their tea bitter. Cold brewing solves this issue by not only preserving the vitamins in the tea but also ensuring that other nutrients such as polyphenols and catechins maintain their antioxidant activity, similar to that achieved through boiling water. Overall, in certain aspects, cold-brewed tea is more convenient, releases less caffeine, and can help lower blood sugar levels. Convenient and Quick: You can use purified water, mineral water, or cold boiled water. The brewing time can range from half an hour to six hours. Reduce "Tea Drunkenness": Tea contains caffeine, which has stimulating effects. Some people may experience insomnia after drinking tea. Cold brewing reduces the release…

Pu'er tea cakes are compressed into the shape of a cake, commonly known as Pu'er tea cakes. Pu'er tea is often stored and transported in the form of compressed cakes; historically, one cake weighed 357 grams, with seven cakes making up one bundle for ease of calculation and transportation by mules. How to Properly Unpack a Pu'er Tea Cake Pu'er tea cakes are layered, so to unpack them without breaking them apart, you need to use the right tools: a tea knife and a tea pick. The method is as follows: Stand the tea cake upright and choose a looser spot on it. Insert the tea knife parallel to the surface of the cake, gently levering it, and repeat this process to break the tea cake apart neatly. The method for opening a tea cake: Because the way tea cakes are made is quite unique, special attention should be paid to keeping their integrity when opening them. Hold the tea needle and follow the texture of the tea cake, inserting it along the edge, one needle at a time, maintaining the integrity of the pressed pattern. After going around the cake with the needle, you can peel off a ring…

Pu'er tea is best brewed with water at 100°C. Pu'er tea is made from Yunnan large-leaf sun-dried green tea, with high-quality raw materials and rich internal substances. It has the distinct characteristic of improving with age. Using boiling water at 100°C not only preserves the tea's vitality but also facilitates the release of its internal qualities, flavors, and aromas. The Advantages of Brewing Pu'er with Boiling Water: It quickly extracts the tea flavor, allowing the aroma to volatilize and the effective components in the tea to steep out. For aged teas, brewing with boiling water can highlight their unique characteristics, such as the softness of Yiwu, the elegance of Bulang, or the boldness of Ban Zhang, which can be quickly discerned! Additionally, cakes, bricks, and compressed teas made from coarser leaves are also well-suited to brewing with boiling water. However, it's important to note that there can be differences in the boiling point of water in various regions, meaning that even when the water appears to be boiling, it may not reach a temperature of 100°C. The Disadvantages of Brewing Pu'er with Boiling Water: If the Pu'er being brewed is made from tender, high-grade buds, high-grade green cakes, or newer…