Tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the world, enjoyed by people from all walks of life. It has a long and rich history, and there are many different kinds of tea to be enjoyed. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this guide will teach you about different tea types and how to steep and serve each kind. You’ll also find some interesting facts about each variety. So sit back, relax, and get ready for a delicious journey through the world of tea.
Green Tea
Let’s start our exploration with green tea. Originating from China and now widely consumed in Japan, this type of tea is made by steaming or pan-frying tea leaves after the harvest. It has a grassy flavor profile and contains high levels of polyphenols and tannins. To steep green tea, use water just under boiling temperature (around 180 to 190 degrees). Steep the leaves for 2-3 minutes, and be sure not to over-steep, as this will cause a bitter taste.
Oolong Tea
Next up is oolong tea, which is also from China. This type of tea is semi-oxidized and falls between green and black tea in terms of oxidation. It has a lighter body and more floral notes than green tea but with a similar level of caffeine. When steeping oolong, use water below boiling (around 190-200 degrees). Steep the leaves for 3-5 minutes, and don’t over-steep, as it will make the tea taste too bitter. However, if you like a stronger flavor, you can steep it for longer.
Black Tea
Black tea is the most commonly consumed type of tea in the world. It has been around since the 1600s, originating from China and India. This tea is fully oxidized after being withered and rolled, giving it a strong, robust flavor. The strong flavor of black tea means you don’t need to steep it for as long. The best temperature for steeping is just under boiling (around 200 degrees). Steep the leaves for 2-3 minutes and be sure not to over-steep, or else it can become bitter.
Rooibos Tea
Also known as red tea, rooibos is a caffeine-free tea from South Africa. This tea has a sweet, woody, earthy, and herbal flavor. It also contains high levels of antioxidants and minerals, making it great for those looking for a healthy beverage option. Many people make mistakes when it comes to steeping rooibos tea. The best way is to use water just below boiling (around 180-190 degrees). Steep the leaves for 3-5 minutes and don’t over-steep, or the tea will become too bitter.
That’s it for now. There are still many types of tea that we can’t cover in this article. So stay tuned for the guide for other types of tea. But we hope this guide has been helpful in giving you an introduction to the most common types of tea around the world. Now that you know more about tea, it’s time to pick your favorite and start steeping. Happy brewing.…