Types of Brew: Hot & Cold
Today, let's delve into both hot brew and cold brew methods for tea cakes and tea pearls!
Hot Brew
Suitable For: All Types Of Tea
The hot brewing method extracts the flavours more quickly, resulting in a fuller-bodied tea with more pronounced floral and sweet notes. The warmth enhances the tea's aromatics, making it a cozy and comforting experience.
Ritual: The process of preparing hot tea, including warming the teapot, steeping the leaves, and pouring the tea into cups, can be a meditative ritual that enhances the overall experience of enjoyment and relaxation.
Put your selected tea in your gaiwan, or teapot and pour in the hot water.
Discard the first pot of water or if you are using tea cake or pearl instead, allow the tea to “awaken” and start unfolding before discarding the water.
Brew as many rounds of hot water as you like and enjoy the soothing warmth it brings throughout your body, especially on colder days. This mindfulness can enhance the enjoyment of the tea and promote relaxation throughout your body.
Cold Brew:
Suitable For: Green, Oolong, White & Black Tea
Cold brewing tea is a popular method that involves steeping tea leaves in cold water over an extended period, typically resulting in a smoother, less astringent flavour compared to traditional hot brewing. Cold brewing is a simple process that involves steeping tea leaves in cold water for couple of hours or overnight. It requires minimal effort and can be prepared in advance.
Add 4-6g loose tea leaves to a container of room temperature water for two hours or overnight.
It is best to cover the bottle to prevent the absorption of other odours if you are leaving it in the fridge.
Once ready, sip to experience the smooth, delicate flavours of the tea, now refreshing and perfect to enjoy throughout the day!
Hydration: Cold brewed tea is hydrating and can be enjoyed throughout the day without the need for reheating, making it convenient for on-the-go lifestyles.
Ice Brew:
Suitable For: Loose White Tea
Ice brew tends to highlight the tea's natural sweetness and smoothness while minimising any bitterness or astringency. It offers a refreshing and milder taste profile compared to hot brew. The cold water extraction process preserves delicate flavours and aromas without intensifying them.
Fill up a jug with ice about half way, add 4-6g loose tea leaves and top up the rest with ice again.
Wait for the ice to melt away about mid-way and enjoy the refreshing coolness in summer!
By following these steps, you can enjoy a delightful and refreshing chilled tea that provides a gentle energy boost and a pleasant taste experience.
