Brewing a great cup of green tea

Brewing the perfect cup of green tea takes a little bit of knowledge. By following a  few simple guidelines you can make a delicious cup of green tea every time!

No matter how high or low the quality of the tea leaves, a cup of tea can be significantly enhanced or ruined in the brewing process. Green tea is sensitive to water temperature and steeping time. No pressure here!

I have a bias opinion and I do love our Pluck Tea the most. Therefore, I encourage you to order green tea through Pluck for the best, green tea, teatime experience.

Water: It's best to use filtered water, either municipal tap or bottled.

Measurement: For a 6-8 ounce cup use one teaspoon or 2-3 grams. Sometimes it's best to weigh the tea when using larger tea leaves because a teaspoon won't equal 2-3 grams.

Temperature: Water that has barely reached a boil and then cooled a couple of minutes is ideal for green teas. Try to use 160 - 185ºF (71 - 85ºC).

Steeping Time: Timing is essential. Use a kitchen timer or the timer on your phone works great if you're out. Steep green teas for 1.5 to 3 minutes. You can vary this to your taste preference.

Brewing: Place the tea leaves freely in the cup or teapot before adding the hot water. Pour the water over the leaves and make sure there is enough room for the leaves to unfurl and infuse their flavor. Avoid "tea balls" and the like. Large stainless steel infusers work well also.

Allowing full expansion of the loose tea leaves is essential. This unfurling is called "the agony of the leaves" and is a crucial part of the brewing process.

Green tea has a shorter shelf life than black tea. The average freshness life of green tea is one year when stored properly. Store tea in a sealed airtight container away from light and moisture.

When you buy high-quality green tea you don't need to add milk and sugar. It's just not necessary. But, I can appreciate that everyone enjoys their “cuppa” just a little different. Try your cup of green tea first without any cream or sugar, then add your cream and sugar as desired. Adventure is good. Most important is that you take time for tea. Take time for yourself.

Tell me what is your favourite green tea?