Interesting facts about tea
Tea is an extremely noble beverage that mankind has been enjoying for thousands of years. Over the centuries, many of the cultures have developed their rituals related to its brewing, drinking, storing, celebrating these moments truly royally.
In our post today we will introduce you to some facts, related to tea. Perhaps this knowledge will make the brew you prepare even more delicious.
How are the teas divided?
There is no single way of categorization. Teas are classified according to many factors, e.g.: season of harvesting - spring, summer, autumn, winter, country of origin: e.g. China, India, Japan, Turkey, how they are processed after harvesting: (black tea, green tea, red tea, yellow tea, white tea, oolong tea), the size of the leaves and many others.
You can learn more about the classification itself in our article How do we classify teas?
What country does tea come from?
The tea originated in China's Yunnan province. Over the centuries, many legends have been written about its origins. According to one of them, in 2737 BC, Chinese emperor, herbalist and scholar Shen Nung was resting under a wild tea tree enjoying boiled water. As a result of the wind, leaves fell into it, which gave the drink its unique flavor. Appreciating its qualities, the emperor made it famous and so today tea is one of the most popular drinks in the world.
At what temperature to brew tea?
It all depends on its type and species. Contrary to popular belief, do not pour boiling water over it. It is assumed that the ideal temperature for brewing tea ranges from 60 to 96 degrees. Lower values are attributed to green tea and higher values to black and red tea.
What is black tea?
It is a type of tea that is created by a process of complete oxidation of the leaves and has a more intense flavor than other types of tea. It also has a beautiful, distinctive color and aroma. It has stimulating abilities. It is brewed at about 85-96 degrees Celsius to reach the full depth of its flavor.
What properties does white tea have?
It is considered the noblest type of tea. It is obtained from buds that have not yet had time to fully develop into leaves. It undergoes a drying process, but at relatively low temperatures. It has similar health properties to green tea, viz. has antiviral and antibacterial effects, lowers blood pressure, and benefits the heart. However, it is stronger than its green counterpart.
What is red tea like?
Intense primarily in taste and aroma. It should be drunk without sugar, which could neutralize its health-promoting properties. In the production process it undergoes fermentation, to which it owes its earthy aroma.
Leaf tea or tea in sachets?
Leaf tea infusion allows you to bring out the true depth of flavor and aroma.
How long to steep the tea?
Depending on its species, the brewing time varies from three to even ten minutes. You can read more about it here: How to properly brew tea
What to drink tea in?
In Europe it has become accepted to drink it in cups or in mugs. Tea rituals vary greatly from country to country. There are also traditional teapots that are used to drink it, you can meet them in Japan, for example.
Does water affect the taste of tea?
Yes, that's why exactly the same tea can taste completely different depending on the water used. For this reason, it is a good idea to equip yourself with a suitable water filter and ensure that the kettle is always clean and free of scale.
What is Yerba Mate?
It is generally considered a type of tea, but this is an inaccurate term. Its leaves come from the Paraguayan holly. Yerba Mate also has a completely different preparation process and differs from tea in its chemical composition and properties.
How to store tea?
Away from moisture and in a shady, cool place. This will allow it to retain all its properties - including its flavor and aroma - for longer. It's also not good to expose it to strong odors, as it tends to soak up them.
What to store the tea in?
The best are hermetically sealed containers. The most popular are made of glass or metal. If you opt for glass containers, it is important that they are not transparent - otherwise they will let a lot of light through, which adversely affects the appearance and taste of tea. You can read more about this topic in the article: How to store tea properly - some tips.
Does the tea spoil?
If it is stored well it generally is not. However, over time it may lose its flavor. Other than that, nothing will happen and it will not be harmful, at most less tasty. Otherwise, if it is subjected to moisture.
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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.
