All the ways to brew tea

Not too long ago, I drove down Fairview Street in Boise, Idaho called Brew Awakening. It's a very creative name for a coffee shop!To my surprise, the retail space is now empty.This could be someone's dream and sadly not being realized.With the benefit of high traffic count, cars going by don't always stop for your product. Fast morning commuters going over 35 mph don't always stop for your business. Location can make a big different for the fast drink-through coffee shop. Maybe the owner found a better location.

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 can be 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 itself. The Japanese has gone as far as to creating a tea ceremony where every move has an intention. Like mediation, the process slows down the mind and allows wisdoms to come through.

Kung Fu tea, a Chinese tradition, encompasses the reflective spirit, the etiquette, and the skills of making and pouring the tea. Kung Fu tea tradition is not for crushing thirst, but to experience the tea through the fragrance and the taste. A special miniature clay tea pot is used.Clay tea pots absorbs the fragrance of the tea.Over time, the aroma of the tea becomes part of the teapot.

In modern days, the general guidelines are 2 to 5 minutes for steeping black tea.Oolong tea takes longer to brew, 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 to 6 minutes at 180 degree temperature.Second brew 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 these steps 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.