Fresh tea is a traditional and healthy beverage, often prepared by steeping fresh green tea leaves in a pot and keeping it warm in an insulated basket. The resulting tea is then poured into cups, retaining its beautiful green color even after a long time.
While preparing fresh tea is not overly complicated, some people encounter issues with bitterness and an unappealing reddish color. The following tips on choosing and brewing fresh tea leaves will help you avoid these problems:
**Selecting Fresh Tea Leaves:**
– Opt for fresh, mature tea leaves that are not too old or too young.
– Look for small, slightly matte leaves with a consistent deep green color.
– Avoid old, bruised leaves as they tend to make the tea bitter and unattractive in color.
Choose mature tea leaves for the best results.
**Preparing the Tea Leaves:**
– Remove any old or damaged leaves, then rinse the fresh leaves several times with clean water to eliminate dirt.
– Soak the leaves in water for about 10 minutes, then drain and let them air dry before brewing.
**Brewing Tips:**
– Gently crumble the fresh tea leaves and place them in a pot.
– Pour a small amount of boiling water into the pot and give it a gentle shake. Discard this water, as it helps to clean the leaves and reduce bitterness.
– Add hot water (around 80-85°C) to the pot and let the leaves steep for 10-20 minutes to extract the flavors. Do not over-steep, as it may cause the tea to turn reddish and bitter.
Use hot water at around 80-85°C for the best flavor and color.
The resulting tea will have a light green color, a subtle aroma, and a hint of sweetness. Fresh tea pairs well with traditional snacks like mung bean cakes, sesame candy, and dried pork sausage. You can enjoy it hot or cold by adding ice, adjusting the amount of tea leaves to your preferred taste. However, avoid making it too strong, as it may become bitter and is not recommended for excessive consumption.
**Notes on Drinking Fresh Tea:**
– Brew the tea at around 80°C to maintain its green color and avoid bitterness.
– Limit your intake to a maximum of 500ml per day. Do not drink strong tea or tea that has been left overnight.
– Avoid adding sugar to your tea, as it interferes with maintaining a healthy weight and physique.
– Tea contains caffeine, which can stimulate the nerves and cause insomnia. Therefore, it is best to avoid drinking tea late in the evening. Consume it one hour before or after meals.
The Perfect Brew: Crafting a Delightful Cup of Green Tea That’s Easy on the Eyes and the Taste Buds
Fresh tea is a beloved beverage, but not many know the art of brewing the perfect cup of bright green tea that stays clear and doesn’t turn murky over time.
Should You Choose Loose Leaf, Green Tea or Tea Bags?
Drinking tea is a beloved tradition for many, and with good reason – it offers a plethora of health benefits thanks to its nutrient-rich composition. With a wide array of tea varieties available on the market today, it can be a daunting task to choose the best option for your health and taste buds. Should you opt for loose-leaf tea, matcha, or the convenient tea bags that line the shelves?
