Preparing Tea
Generally, 2.5 grams (teaspoon) of tea leaves per 8 oz cup will yield a pleasant brew. If you're Irish, you may want to add one more to the pot. Ideally, use cold, filtered water to brew your loose leaf tea. Teas vary greatly in their classifications, as do they vary when introduced to hot water. Different water temperatures are required for brewing different teas.
If you have a thermometer, here are ideal temperatures:
White Teas 170-180F
(just under boiling, small bubbles)
Green Teas 170-180F
(just under boiling, small bubbles)
Green Oolongs 170-185F
Amber Oolongs/Champagne 190-205F
First Flush Darjeelings 185-195F
Black Teas205-212F
Herbal Infusions 205-212F
The following is a guide of infusion times:
White teas - 3 to 7 minutes
Green teas - 3 minutes (Gyokuro 45 sec. to 1 minute)
Jade Oolongs - 3 to 4 minutes
Amber Oolongs - 4 to 5 minutes
Black Teas - 4 to 5 minutes
Black Darjeelings - 3 minutes
Herbal Infusions - 5 to 8 minutes
White, green and oolong tea can be infused multiple times.
Infusing your tea can be as much an experience as drinking it. A cup of tea awakens your senses. Be present to the moment. Observe the beautiful colours and unfolding shapes of the leaves as they steep; appearance is very much a part of the experience. Inhale the tea’s unique aroma as it rises from your steaming cup. Be mindful of all the many flavours swirling in your cup. Relish your tea to the last sip!
