How to Make Chinese Tea
Making Chinese tea is simple, elegant and steeped in tradition. Here we will discuss the essentials of brewing Chinese tea.
Ingredients
You will need the tea of your choice, a tea pot or cup, some kind of strainer, and hot water.
Instructions
- Heat the Water: the temperature of the water you use when brewing Chinese tea is very important. Boil the water until it is just short of boiling (185-195°F).
- Warm the Teapot: if you are using a teapot, pour some of the hot water into it and swirl it around to warm the pot. Discard the water.
- Measure the Tea: Depending on the type of Chinese tea you are using, you will need to measure out the tea. Here are some general guidelines:
- Oolong: 5 grams
- Green tea: 2-3 grams
- White tea: 3 grams
- Pu-erh tea: 6-7 grams
- Place The Leaves in the Teapot: place the leaves into the warmed teapot.
- Add the Hot Water: Once the water has reached the correct temperature, pour it over the leaves in the teapot.
- Steep and Serve: Steep the tea for the recommended time, usually 3-5 minutes. Pour the tea through a strainer into a tea cup to serve.
Tips
- The amount of tea and the temperature of water used will greatly affect the flavor of the tea. Experiment to find what works for you.
- Once you are finished with your tea, you can save the leaves for a second steeping, or reuse them for cooking.
Making Chinese tea is an art form, but with a little practice you can easily brew a perfect cup.
