Renowned for its rich umami taste, Gyokuro holds a special place in Japanese tea culture and has gained popularity around the world. The tea is known for its exceptional flavour, vibrant green colour, and unique cultivation process. Whether enjoyed in a traditional tea ceremony or savoured in the comfort of one’s home, this tea offers a truly remarkable tea-drinking experience.
What Makes Japan’s Gyokuro Tea So Popular?
Gyokuro holds a special place in Japanese tea ceremonies, reflecting its cultural significance and appreciation for the art of tea. The name, ‘Gyokuro’ translates to ‘jade dew’ alluding to the tea’s vivid green colour and the delicate nature of its leaves.
In addition to its exceptional taste and cultural significance, Gyokuro tea offers numerous health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins for their potential health-promoting properties. The combination of theanine and caffeine in Gyokuro can provide a balanced energy boost. Sipping this tea doesn’t give you the jittery side effects often associated with other caffeinated beverages.
However, the price can be more expensive than some might expect, but why? The limited quantity and harvest period, along with the extra labour for cultivating is the reason why. Moreover, it is considered high quality as the shading process takes about 20-30 days. The harvest also requires careful attention to detail. After harvesting, the tea leaves undergo a series of steps to transform into the final product. The leaves are even steamed to prevent oxidation and preserve their vibrant green colour.
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How To Brew This Japanese Tea?
To fully appreciate the unique characteristics of Gyokuro, proper brewing techniques are essential. The water used for brewing should be of high quality, preferably filtered or spring water, to avoid any unwanted flavours. The ideal water temperature for brewing Gyokuro is around 50-60°C (122-140°F), significantly lower than the boiling point of water.
Gyokuro is traditionally brewed in small, handleless teapots called ‘kyusu’. The tea leaves are steeped for 1-2 minutes. This helps to extract delicate flavours without releasing excessive bitterness. The brewed Gyokuro tea is then served in small cups or bowls. And now, you appreciate its aroma, taste, and vibrant green colour as you sip!
Gyokuro tea stands as a pinnacle of Japanese tea craftsmanship. From its origins in Japan to its health benefits and cultural significance, it has been captivating the world!
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