Not too long ago, I drove down Fairview Street here in Boise, Idaho and noticed a coffee shop called Brew Awakening. What a perfect name for a coffee shop!The space is now empty.It looks like someone’s dream not being realized.Even with high traffic street, cars speeding by don’t always stop. Morning commuters driving faster than 35 mph don’t usually stop for products or services. I hope the owner advanced to a better space. 

Here I am trying to offer you some simple guidelines on a perfect brew cup of tea.The way to a perfect cup of tea is as deep as the history of tea.The process of brewing tea keeps us present in the moment.The three elements that keeps our attention and being present in the moment are temperature, brewing time and serving traditions.The steps are just as important as the drink.The Japanese created a tea ceremony that sets intention for all its moves and meaning for each gesture.Taking all actions wtih mindfulness and care allows you to be present in the moment. This is recommanded when brewing tea.

Kung Fu tea is a Chinese tradition that encompasses the reflective spirit, the etiquette, and the skills of making and pouring the tea. Drinking Kung Fu tea is not to crush thirst, but to experience the tea through the fragrance and the taste.The tea taste better with each brew when clay teapot is used.Clay tea pots absorbs the fragrance of the tea.Over time, the teapot aged with the aroma of the tea.

In modern days, the general guidelines are 2 to 5 minutes for steeping black tea.Oolong tea steeps longer, about 5 to 8 minutes. The best water temperature is 180-190. Green tea takes about 2-4 minutes at 160 to 170 degree water.  White tea steeps for 4-6 minutes at 180 degree temperature.  Second infusion will take twice as long for the flavor to infuse.  Steep time for Rooibos and other herbal tea varies, but most of them needs to steep 5 minutes or more.Adjust the recipe to your personal taste. 

Whatever method or tools you use, be with the process and enjoy the experience.Savor your tea time and have a brew awakening.

Filed under: Tea, black tea, brewing awakening, Coffee, green tea, herbal tea, rooibos, steep time, Tea, white tea