Draw from the brew all that is most valuable.
Properties of green tea vs. brewing process
Green tea is considered one of the healthiest drinks in the world. In China and Japan, where it originated, it immediately gained a reputation as a miracle cure - a liquid source of health and youth. No wonder, since green tea infusion is rich in vitamins A, B, B2, C, E and K, as well as powerful antioxidants, amino acids and numerous micronutrients such as calcium, potassium, zinc, manganese and fluoride. However, to preserve all these treasures, green tea infusion should be properly prepared. Too hot water can annihilate some of the dried tea's health-promoting properties. In turn, when it is brewed for too long, too many tannins are released. Although these substances have a positive effect on our digestive system and show a strong antibacterial effect, in excess they inhibit the stimulating effect of the theine contained in tea, and give the brew a strongly bitter taste.
How to brew green tea?
The most important factors to pay attention to are water temperature and brewing time. Classic green tea should be poured with water at a temperature of 70-80°C. To get this result, we can use a special thermometer or simply wait about 7-8 minutes after the water boils. The infusion should be brewed under a lid, preferably in a slightly warmed vessel. Green tea should be brewed for 2-3 minutes if you want it to have stimulating properties, or 4-6 minutes if you want it to have a calming effect. After brewing, it is essential to separate the leaves from the infusion.
How to brew different varieties of green tea?
The basic recipe can be successfully used on a daily basis. However, we should remember that there are many varieties of green tea and, in fact, each of them requires slightly different treatment. So if you are serious about your green tea adventure, you should treat the different varieties of dried tea slightly differently. For example, the most popular among gourmet delicate Japanese Sencha It does not tolerate high temperatures. It should also not be steamed for too long. Pour 70°C water over it and keep it covered for only 1-1.5 minutes. Similarly, we handle Bancha, which is Japanese tea from the second harvest. We can brew it for a maximum of 2 minutes. Chinese Gunpowder green tea It, on the other hand, needs a higher temperature - about 80°C and longer brewing, lasting about 3 minutes. These may seem like small differences. However, a skilled palate will sense them perfectly.
The power of centuries-old ceremonial
It happens that green tea brewing takes the form of a truly sophisticated ritual. This is the case, for example, with chanoyu - The Japanese ceremony of brewing matcha, or provoked green tea. Chanoyu has been practiced for more than a dozen centuries. The original ceremony takes place in a tea pavilion chashitsu, and expensive ceramics and special accessories are used to carry it out. Each movement performed by the master of ceremonies has its own meaning, and the whole thing should be done with respect for 4 principles: harmony, respect, purity and tranquility. A substitute for a soothing ritual chanoyu We can also create for ourselves in the comfort of our own home.
How to brew matcha green tea?
- Gently warm the matchawan bowl by pouring a little boiling water into it. Also soften the chasen brush by dipping it in the hot water.
- Using a chashaku teaspoon, scoop 2 portions of powdered tea and pour into the teapot, sifting through a fine mesh strainer beforehand.
- Measure about 60 ml of water at a temperature of about 80°C and pour it into the dryer.
- Then gently, but vigorously, whisk the brew with a chasen brush. Your movements should follow a path that resembles the letter M or W. After about 30 seconds, when the foam appears, the matcha is ready.
- You can add milk to the infusion. This way you will make the famous matcha latte.
How to brew green tea?
Pour 200 ml of water at 70-80°C over a teaspoon of dried seeds and steep covered for 2-3 minutes (stimulant effect) or 4-6 minutes (sedative effect).
Does brewing green tea always go the same way?
No. Each variety of green tea requires slightly different treatment.
What is the name of the most famous tea brewing ritual?
Chanoyu - is a Japanese ceremony for brewing matcha, or powdered green tea.
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Matcha - your green moment of relaxation and true energy
What is matcha? Matcha is a powdered green tea native to Japan and China. It is created by grinding specially grown tea leaves into a fine green powder. Unlike other teas - in the case of matcha, we consume the whole leaf, not just the infusion, which translates into much more nutritional value.
Does tea have caffeine?
Does tea have caffeine? This question often arises among lovers of this aromatic beverage. Many people think that caffeine is an ingredient only in coffee, and that tea contains only mild stimulants. However, the truth is a bit more complicated.
How to choose a good tea?
Are you looking for the right tea for you that will delight you with its unique taste and aroma? However, choosing that perfect and additionally good quality tea is not as easy as you might think. There are so many varieties of tea in the world that choosing the best one can be a challenge. However, we come to help. We suggest how to identify good tea, what are the best varieties of tea, and what are the best and healthiest teas in the world.
