How to steep green tea

Green tea, with its delicate flavors and rich health benefits, deserves a brewing process that accentuates its subtleties. Here's your guide to steeping the perfect cup of green tea.

1. Quality Matters:

Start with high-quality loose leaf green tea. All of the green teas here at Teamancy are made with top quality tea; using fresh, quality leaves is the foundation of a great cup.

2. Temperature Precision:

Green tea is sensitive to temperature. Steep it in water that's too hot, and you risk bitterness. Aim for a temperature between 150°F to 180°F (65°C to 80°C). Use a thermometer or invest in a variable temperature kettle for accuracy. If you don't have fancy equipment, just wait 2 minutes after your pour your cup of boiling water before adding your tea leaves.

3. Timing is Everything:

Unlike black tea, green tea requires a shorter steeping time. Typically, 1 to 3 minutes is sufficient. Each bag of tea from Teamancy has instructions on the back on the best time and temperature. Experiment with different timings to find your preferred balance between flavor and strength.

4. Use the Right Ratio:

A general guideline is one teaspoon of loose leaf green tea per 8 ounces of water. Adjust to your taste preference but avoid overcrowding the leaves.

5. Infuser or Steeper:

Choose the right brewing vessel. A cup steeper and a mug works well for green tea. Ensure ample space for the leaves to expand.

6. Embrace Multiple Infusions:

Green tea leaves often have multiple infusions in them. Apple Pie Chai is made with a beautiful tightly rolled gunpowder green tea, perfect for watching the leaves unfurl as you steep. Don't discard them after the first steep. Enjoy the evolving flavors through two or three infusions.

7. Water Quality:

Use fresh, clean water. If your tap water has a strong flavor or impurities, consider using filtered or bottled water.

8. Preheat Your Teaware:

Pour a small amount of hot water into your teapot or teacup and swirl it around. This ensures a consistent temperature during steeping.

9. Watch the Leaves Unfurl:

Green tea leaves unfurl as they steep. Enjoy the visual transformation and anticipate the release of flavors.

10. Savor the Moment:

Green tea is about more than just the taste. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma, the color, and the overall experience. Let it be a mindful ritual.

Perfecting your green tea steeping technique may take some experimentation, but the journey is as rewarding as the destination. With attention to detail and an appreciation for the art of brewing, you'll unlock the full potential of your favorite green teas. Cheers to a cup of tranquility and well-being!