The Tea Brewing Methods
Warm up the vessels
This might be thought of as not necessary; however, it is one of the most important steps that cannot be skipped. While temperature being a significant chemistry factor to the steeping process, warming up the vessel can imbue the aroma and taste of the tea.
Adding the tea leaves
Compared to the amount of tea western style steeping, the most traditional way of tea steeping almost double the amount. Add 5-8 grams of tea leaves (depending on the type of tea) into the warm vessel.
Rinsing the leaves
This is another must not skip step – to rinse the tea leaves. After a long journey all the way from the mountains in the eastern country, it is the step to wake up and activate the leaves, to release its superpower and can maximise the infusion. To rinse the tea leaves, pour the boiled water on the leaves and pour the water out immediately.
Steeping and Decanting
Adding Water
Water and temperature are the key, affecting the taste, aroma, as well as health benefits from an herbalist point of view. Normally 97-99°c will be the recommended temperature for a perfect cup of tea without steeping for a long time.
How much water and how long?
With 5-8 grams of tea leaves (depending on the type of tea), add about 150ml-200ml of water, initially steep about 15 –20 seconds and decant the tea into a warm cup. It can be repeated 5-10 times or even more depending on personal preference and of course, the type of tea. Using less amount of tea and more water will need to be steep for a longer time and less repeats.