Oolong tea is also known as the ‘in between tea’, best classified as an intermediate between green and black tea. This type of tea is native to China and is famous even today for its unique taste and health benefits. Oolong tea has a lot of cultural background as well. Oolong is indeed one of a kind, whether you are a tea lover in any aspect or just beginning to explore new things.
The Unique Production Process of Oolong Tea
The water content is in the in-between stage, thus oolong tea is not classified as black or green tea and is often referred to as semi-fermented tea. The tea’s flavor is created through careful plucking, withering, and a specific degree of oxidation of the tea leaves. This process of processing the teas is quite laborious and always involves a high degree of mastery. When left unattended or poorly executed, the science behind the technique is blemished and the quality of the tea is ruined.
Flavor Profile and Varieties
The taste of oolong tea is one of its distinguishing characteristics; it has an incredibly rich and complex flavor that sets it apart from other types. Because of the differences in processing and geographical location, oolong can also range to provide floral profiles to fruity, and even roasted tea. Some of the more well-known varieties involve:
Tieguanyin: Best known for its floral notes and creamy flavor.
Da Hong Pao: Has legends surrounding it and is a strong and smoky oolong.
Dong Ding: A moderate strength tea with notes of honey and nut elements.
In each variety, the skills possessed by a teamenster come alive thus oolong tea can be used in any particular tea time.
Health Benefits of Oolong Tea
Apart from its taste oolong tea has many health advantages which include:
Antioxidant Rich: Works against free radicals and maintains skin quality
Metabolism Regulator: Formulae for weight and fat helps in weight management.
Stomach Aid: Soothes the stomach and improves digestive system.
Enhances Focus: Provides caffeine and L-theanine focuses and calms the body.
Oolong tea is best included in the daily regimen to complement a healthy lifestyle.
How to Brew the Perfect Cup
Brewing yes! For one to relish oolong tea properly, it has to be brewed in the right manner. This is how it can be done:
Take fresh water that is filtered and place it in the kettle with its temperature ranging from 85-95 degrees Celsius (185-203 degrees Fahrenheit).
Throw in one teaspoon of oolong tea leaves per cup.
Let it soak for 3-5 minutes but you may alter it according to you taste.
The leaves should be reused to make several steeps because oolong tea improves with each additional infusion.