Mastering the Art of Tea Brewing

"Tea is the ultimate mental and medical remedy and has the ability to make one's life more full and complete."

- Myoan Eisai

For centuries, across cultures and continents, tea has been more than just a beverage; it's been a timeless companion to moments of serenity, joy, and contemplation. Join us on a journey through the art of tea brewing, where tradition, culture, and flavours come together to create a symphony for the senses. From the classic allure of Western-style brewing to the meditative depths of Japanese tea ceremonies, from the simplicity of grandpa-style brewing to the artistic precision of Gongfu Cha, we'll explore the myriad ways in which tea has woven its magic into our lives. So, let's embark on this voyage, cup in hand, and find different ways in which you can brew and enjoy different types of tea.

Here’s how to brew the tea of your choice:

Western Style Brewing

Imagine a serene afternoon with friends, gathered around a teapot, sharing stories over cups of fragrant tea. Western-style brewing is your trusty companion for this scenario. Start with a sturdy teapot or a handy infuser basket. For every 8 ounces (240ml) of water, use about one teaspoon of your favourite tea leaves. Boil your water, and then let it cool slightly. Pour this hot liquid over the waiting tea leaves, allowing them to awaken and release their essence. Then, it's a game of patience as you steep for the recommended time, which varies depending on your tea type. Once the timer chimes, carefully remove the leaves, leaving you with a delightful cup of tea to enjoy.

Japanese Tea Brewing

If you wish to enjoy a moment of Zen, the Japanese way, the Japanese tea brewing technique is your go-to option. Japanese Matcha Tea is a star here. If you are wondering how to make matcha tea, you’ll be happy to know that two distinct experiences await you. One is Usucha Matcha, and the other is Koicha Matcha. For Usucha Matcha, dissolve one teaspoon of Matcha powder in 70 ml of water just below 175°F (80°C). Take your bamboo whisk, the Chasen, and whisk vigorously with a back-and-forth wrist motion for about 30 seconds until a luscious froth emerges. It's a moment to relish—a sip of tradition and tranquillity.

On the other hand, Koicha Matcha takes you on a richer, more indulgent journey. With two teaspoons (4g) of Matcha powder and a mere 40 ml of hot water, gently whisk the blend using a slow kneading process in a circular motion, dedicating another 30 seconds to reach a velvety, thick, and exceptionally smooth consistency. Each bowl of Koicha Matcha is a testament to the depth and artistry of Japanese culture, offering a taste of tradition and serenity in a single cup.

Herbal Infusions

Imagine winding down after a long day with a soothing cup of Chamomile Herbal Paradise Tea or peppermint tea. Herbal infusions are a gentle, nurturing hug from nature. It's your go-to for relaxation and well-being. Choose your favourite herbs, place them in a cup, and pour hot water over them. It's a gentle infusion, a nurturing hug from nature, and a moment of tranquillity in a hectic world.

Grandpa-Style Brewing

For times when you are busy with work and need a quick tea fix, grandpa-style brewing can come to the rescue! Grab your favourite cup, pop your tea leaves directly into the cup; no infusers needed. Next, pour hot water over the leaves, setting them free to swirl, unfurl, and dance as they steep. There's no need to strain; you can simply add more water if it gets bitter. So, there’s your quick tea fix: no fuss, no muss, just you and your tea.

Gongfu Cha

Ever watched a tea master gracefully pouring tea from a tiny teapot into even tinier cups? That's Gongfu Cha, the authentic Chinese way of brewing tea. For making tea this way, begin with a petite teapot, gaiwan, or a traditional tea boat. The key here is a high leaf-to-water ratio. Place your tea leaves in the pot, add hot water, and embrace the magic as the leaves unfurl and infuse with each passing second. The steeping times are short, sometimes starting at just a few seconds and gradually increasing with each infusion. It's like watching a masterpiece being painted, layer by layer, aroma by aroma, as you sip your way through a symphony of flavours.

Cold Brewing

Hot summer days call for a refreshing chill. And cold brewing is your answer. Start with your tea leaves, either loose or in a convenient tea bag. Place them in a container of cold, fresh water. Then, let time work its magic. This method is patient and gentle, requiring several hours. As you sip, you'll discover a crisp, smooth, and revitalising iced tea that's like a cool breeze on a sweltering day.

Indian Chai Brewing

India is a land of spices, and its tea is a delightful symphony of flavours. Begin by simmering black tea with an aromatic blend of spices, often including cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Add milk and sweetener to taste, letting it all meld together in a warm, fragrant embrace. Every sip is like a journey through India's rich history and vibrant culture, a sip of warmth and comfort.

Final Thoughts

Whether you find solace in the delicate fragrances of herbal infusions or the rich history of Indian Chai, whether you seek tranquillity through Japanese Matcha or the warmth of shared moments with friends and family in a Western-style gathering, tea offers a universe of experiences within a humble cup. If you wish to try unique tea blends or searching for authentic Matcha tea online, we have a wide selection of products for you to choose from. You can check out our products here.

Just as each brewing technique reveals its unique beauty, so does tea reveal its power to enhance our lives, one sip at a time. So, in the gentle steam that rises from your next cup of tea, may you find not just a beverage but a connection to tradition, culture, and the simple pleasures that make life more complete. Cheers to the art of brewing tea, where every cup is a story waiting to be told.