Tea is considered to be an evergreen drink that has been known to have cure-all properties during ancient times. On the surface, the aroma of freshly made tea has been known to soothe the mind and have a relaxing effect. The enjoyment of tea comes not only from consuming it, but also the process of making it.
Start with the right teapot
The flavour of tea can vary even in minute proportions depending on the type of teapot and teacups used. For high-grade teas, a smaller teapot is the best choice, but for ordinary teas an earthenware teapot will retain heat better and produce the best flavor. Of course, always use a teapot that has been cleaned thoroughly before you start.
What kind of water?
The type and quality of water used will of course affect the taste of tea. Nowadays, people tend to prefer using bottled mineral water to using tap water in brewing tea. Mineral water, having many dissolved minerals, is considered "hard water" as opposed to soft water with fewer minerals. If the water is too hard, tannin in the tea cannot be fully extracted from the leaves. On the other hand, water that is too "soft" will not be able to fully release the aroma of the tea.
If you are using tap water, bring it to a boil first and let it cool. This is especially advisable if it has been treated with chlorine and emits an unpleasant smell. After four or five hours, the smell would have disappeared. You can cool the water more quickly if you pour it into another container. If you are using unboiled water, let it stand overnight first before making your tea.
Don't forget the water temperature...
According to an old saying, "the first serving of tea should be made with water that is not too hot so that you'll draw out the flavor, while the second serving of tea should be made with hotter water to draw out the astringency...". In practice, it is better to go for an in-between temperature where you'll obtain a balance between flavour and astringency. Even if the water is not too hot, the amino acids such as theanine (carrying the tea's flavorful properties) will still dissolve in it. The ideal temperature will also be determined by the type of tea leaves being used.
Consume immediately
Tea, especially the green tea variety, quickly oxidizes when it comes into contact with air. The oxidization causes it to darken in color, lose its aroma and destroys the vitamin C in the leaves. Because it is so sensitive to air, the leaves are better bought in small packets which are kept in an air-tight container. Once opened, the tea should be transferred to another container which can be sealed properly in order to preserve its freshness.
Always change the leaves
To obtain the full beneficial effects of tea, the tea leaves need to be changed often. Drinking ten cups of tea a day using only the first and second servings will enable you to derive the full benefit of the tea catechins.
Sean Green writes on topics related to Green Tea and its benefits. For more information about Green Tea, visit the Green Tea Benefits site at http:// greenteahealthguide.com
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