Tea sommelier Yukino Aoshima shares some advice on how to brew a cup of tea like a pro.
Can you give us some tips for brewing really great tea at home?
“For green tea, use hot water that’s 175 degrees. For oolong, between 180 to 190 degrees. If you're going to brew black tea or herbal teas, that would be 212 degrees.”
What if you don’t have an electric kettle to control the temperature?
“Look inside the kettle and see if the bubble is the size of a crab's eyes. That's 175 degrees. If you want to bring it to the oolong temperature, look for a fish eye. If you need 200 degrees, look for the size of a pearl in a pearl necklace. Turn off the heat and use the hot water straight from the kettle. You won't burn the tea leaves and you’ll get the perfect cup.”
Any other tips for brewing at home?
“Get the freshest tea leaves. If you're going to store your leaves in a cupboard, find a place that's dark and cool. You don't want your tea leaves to pick up any scents from the same cabinet, so avoid storing them next to spices.”
