Brewing Green Tea Correctly - Loose Leaves

Brewing green tea properly allows to release maximum beneficial compounds. The benefits are particularly associated with an antioxidant property of polyphenols. Type of polyphenols - catechins help to reduce blood cholesterol and high blood pressure, boost metabolic rate, and provide antibacterial effects. Besides polyphenols, green tea contains L-Theanine, caffeine, vitamins, and minerals. The amino-acid L-Theanine promotes stress relieves and calmness, reduces high blood pressure, improves concentration and attention. Caffeine acts as a stimulant for a central nervous system.

For the best result, use a teapot. You also can brew green tea directly in a cup.

Use a tea kettle and heat water to the boiling point. Add hot water to the teapot and cool it down to 150-175 degrees Fahrenheit (65-80°C).
Add loose leaves to the teapot.

Amount

Use 2 - 3 grams of tea leaves or 1 or 2 tablespoons (depending on the leaves size) per one cup (8-oz of water).

Pour the hot water into the teapot.

Water

Important! Do not add green tea to the boiling water.

The optimal brewing temperature to save catechins content should be between 150-175 degrees Fahrenheit (65-80°C). This temperature range is optimal for dissolving amino acids that contribute flavor and sweetness. If the temperature is higher 175°F (80°C), dissolving tannins will add a bitter taste into your tea.

Brew the leaves before the tea is ready.

You can use infusers and strainers.

Steeping Time

A steeping time depends on leaves size and water temperature. The optimal steeping time is approximately 1-5 minutes.

If you like stronger and bitter tea, add more leaves or brew it for a few minutes longer.

Good News

Green tea from loose leaves is a very economical beverage, it can be infused two-three times.

Measure out ½ - 1 teaspoons (1 - 1 ½ tea scoops) of Matcha powder into a cup or Matcha bowl.
Add 2-3 ounce hot water (150-175°F) and using the bamboo whisk, whisk rapidly using a ‘w’ pattern making sure your Chasen isn’t touching the bottom of the bowl and your foam is smooth, light and colored.
Add more hot water.

Drink immediately, before powder has time to settle. It is normal for some powder to remain at the bottom of your cup.

You can use a shaker bottle. Shake Matcha in a shaker bottle till froth appears.

After opening, keep Matcha in a dark refrigerated place to preserve the freshness.