Green tea is a type of tea made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis that have not undergone the same withering and oxidation process used to make black and oolong teas. This process ensures that green tea retains most of its natural antioxidants, making it one of the healthiest beverages in the world.
History of Green Tea
Green tea has a long and rich history that dates back over 5,000 years. It is believed to have originated in China during the reign of Emperor Shennong around 2737 BC. According to legend, he discovered the benefits of drinking green tea when a tea leaf accidentally fell into his boiling pot of water.
Initially, green tea was mainly consumed by monks and scholars as it was believed to enhance mental clarity and concentration. Over time, it became popular among the general population for its health benefits including improving digestion, preventing cancer, and boosting the immune system.
During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), green tea was introduced to Japan where it was embraced by Japanese Zen monks who used it as a tool for meditation. The Japanese played a significant role in refining and improving green tea, introducing new varieties such as matcha, sencha, and gyokuro.
There are several types of green tea, each with its unique flavor and aroma. As a beginner, it is essential to understand the different types of green tea available and how to brew and serve them.
1. Sencha
Sencha is one of the most popular types of Japanese green tea. It has a refreshing taste and a grassy aroma. To brew sencha, you need to heat water to about 75-80°C and steep the tea leaves for 1-2 minutes.
2. Matcha
Matcha is another popular Japanese green tea made from powdered tea leaves. It has a rich and earthy taste and is often used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. To prepare matcha, you need a special bowl, whisk, and spoon. Place a teaspoon of matcha powder in the bowl, add hot water (about 70-80°C), and whisk until frothy.
3. Gyokuro
Gyokuro is a high-quality Japanese green tea with a sweet and mellow taste. It is grown in the shade for several weeks before harvesting, giving it a rich umami flavor. To brew gyokuro, you need to use cooler water (about 50-60°C) and steep the tea leaves for 2-3 minutes.
4. Dragonwell
Dragonwell, also known as Longjing tea, is a classic Chinese green tea with a nutty flavor and a subtle sweetness. To brew Dragonwell, heat water to about 70-80°C, and steep the tea leaves for 1-2 minutes.
5. Jasmine
Jasmine green tea is a scented Chinese tea made by blending green tea leaves with jasmine flowers. It has a delicate floral aroma and a sweet taste. To brew jasmine tea, heat water to about 80-85°C and steep the tea leaves for 2-3 minutes.
6. Gunpowder
Gunpowder green tea is a Chinese tea characterized by its tightly rolled leaves that resemble gunpowder pellets. It has a smoky aroma and a slightly bitter taste. To brew gunpowder tea, heat water to about 75-80°C and steep the tea leaves for 1-2 minutes.
7. Bancha
Bancha green tea is a type of Japanese green tea that is made from mature tea leaves harvested later in the season. It has a milder flavor compared to other green teas and contains lower levels of caffeine. To brew and serve bancha green tea, boil water and let it cool for a few minutes until the temperature is 80-85°C (175-185°F) and steep the leaves for 1-2 minutes. Strain the tea into a teacup. Serve and enjoy!
Bancha green tea can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference. If you prefer it iced, simply pour the brewed tea over ice cubes and add lemon or mint for a refreshing twist. Enjoy!
8. Genmaicha
Genmaicha green tea is a Japanese green tea that is blended with roasted brown rice kernels. The roasted rice gives the tea a slightly nutty and toasty flavor, which complements the grassy taste of the green tea. To brew genmaicha green tea, follow these steps: Bring fresh, cold water to a boil and let it cool slightly for a minute or two. Place 1-2 teaspoons of genmaicha tea leaves for every 8 ounces of water in a teapot or infuser. Pour the hot water over the tea leaves and steep for 2-3 minutes. Strain the tea leaves and pour the tea into your cup. Optionally, you can add honey or sugar to taste.
To serve genmaicha green tea, it is traditionally served in small teacups. You can also make it into an iced tea by allowing it to cool and serving it over ice. Enjoy!
Serving Green Tea
To serve green tea, you need to use a teapot, a teacup, and a strainer (if using loose leaf tea). Fill the teapot with hot water and let it sit for a few seconds to warm it up. Discard the water, add the appropriate amount of tea leaves (usually one teaspoon per cup), then add hot water and let it steep for the recommended time. Pour the tea into your teacup, and enjoy!
Green tea is a healthy and delicious beverage that comes in different flavors and aromas. As a beginner, understanding the different types of green tea and how to brew and serve them will go a long way in ensuring that you enjoy the best cup of tea possible. Remember always to use filtered or spring water, avoid boiling the water, and steep the tea leaves for the recommended time to avoid bitterness. Enjoy your tea!
The Author:
Pioneerthinking.com – Ingredients for a Simple Life.
Photo. PT