Tea Flower: How to Brew This Unique Tea?
A tea flower is a remarkable creation, representing a beautifully tied bud of tea leaves and flowers. When brewed, this bud opens up, offering not only a delightful drink but also a visual spectacle. But how do you brew a tea flower correctly to fully enjoy its taste and beauty?
What is a Tea Flower?
A tea flower, also known as blooming tea, is a hand-tied bundle of tea leaves with natural flowers inside. Typically, white or green tea is used, while flowers such as jasmine, amaranth, lily, or chrysanthemum are added for decoration. The magic happens when you pour hot water over the bundle: the tea flower slowly blossoms, turning a simple tea session into a visual treat.
Choosing the Right Teaware
Brewing a tea flower is first and foremost a visual process, so the best way to prepare it is by using a transparent teapot or glass. This allows you to fully enjoy watching the tea bloom as it unfolds in the water.
A glass teapot with a capacity of 400 ml to 1 liter is ideal. If the tea flower is small, you can use a glass or cup of about 300 ml. The key is to have a clear view of the process.
Water: Temperature and Quality
To brew a tea flower properly, use high-quality water, preferably filtered or bottled. It's also important to control the water temperature. Since flower teas are mostly made with white or green tea, the water shouldn't be too hot—80-85°C (176-185°F) is perfect.
How to measure the temperature? You can use a tea thermometer or simply let boiling water cool for about 3-5 minutes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Brewing a Tea Flower:
Prepare the teaware. Take a clean glass teapot or glass to enjoy the blooming process.
Pour the water. Heat the water to 80-85°C and carefully pour it into the teapot or glass.
Add the tea flower. Gently place the tied tea bud into the hot water. It will first sink and then slowly float to the top and begin to open.
Enjoy the show. The blooming process can take 3-5 minutes. During this time, the tea will gradually infuse with the aromas and flavors contained in the leaves and flowers.
Ready to serve. Once the flower is fully open and the tea has become light and fragrant, you can pour it into cups. Remember, tea flowers can typically be brewed 2-3 times, gradually revealing new flavor notes.
Important Tips:
Don’t use boiling water – too high a temperature can ruin the delicate flavor of the tea and spoil the appearance of the flower.
Don’t leave the flower in the water for too long – it may become too bitter. Once the tea has reached the desired strength, pour it into cups.
Flavor and Aroma Notes
A tea flower has a subtle taste with floral and fruity notes. Typically, white or green tea, used in its creation, gives the drink a light and fresh character, while the added flowers contribute delicate aromas. It’s a perfect choice for those who prefer refined, not overly strong tea flavors.
Conclusion
Brewing a tea flower is a unique ritual that combines aesthetics and taste. This type of tea not only has an exquisite aroma but also brings visual pleasure. By brewing it correctly, you can enjoy not just an extraordinary drink, but a true work of art that unfolds right before your eyes.
Try this amazing process and make your tea time truly special!