How to Make the Perfect Cup of Green Tea: Expert Tips and Techniques

The art of making a perfect cup of green tea might seem simple, but a few expert tips can enhance the flavor and overall experience.

Using Freshly Boiled Water over Filtered Water

For best flavor, bring spring or freshly drawn filtered water to a temperature of 185℉ (about 85℃) without a thermometer. This can be achieved by letting boiling water cool for about 2 minutes. However, if you don't have a thermometer, you can simply use freshly drawn water and let it cool slightly. This moderate temperature allows the green tea to fully release its unique flavors and aromas.

The Optimal Tea to Water Ratio

Your teapot or steeping vessel should be preheated with 8-10 ounces of hot water. Then, add 1 teaspoon of loose leaf green tea leaves for every 8-10 ounces of water. For larger containers, you can add an extra teaspoon of tea to ensure a richer flavor. This technique is based on the adage that advises adding an extra teaspoon for a larger teapot to maintain a strong cup.

Steeping Time for Optimal Flavor

Allow the green tea leaves to steep for exactly 3 minutes. Over-steeping can lead to a bitter taste. After steeping, carefully place a basket strainer over your cup to catch any leaves, then pour the tea gently into the cup. Discard the used leaves, as they should not be allowed to continue steeping in the teapot.

Enjoy your perfectly brewed green tea, which will have a golden yellow-green hue by the time it is ready to drink. The leaves have fully released their potent antioxidants and remarkable freshness, creating a refreshing and flavorful cup.

Note: Kindly switch off the flame or remove the heat source when adding the green tea leaves to prevent over-boiling.

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