Simple Gaiwan Tea Brewing Program

Equipment Needed:

• Gaiwan (tea bowl with a lid)
• Teaspoon or scale
• Kettle for boiling water
• Timer

Ingredients:

• Loose leaf tea (e.g., green, black, or oolong tea)
• Fresh water

Steps:

1. Boil Water:

   • Heat fresh water in the kettle. The temperature should vary based on the type of tea:
     • Green tea: ~70-80°C (160-175°F)
     • Oolong tea: ~90°C (195°F)
     • Black tea: ~100°C (212°F)

2. Add Tea Leaves:

   • Open the gaiwan and add 1-2 teaspoons (or about 3-5 grams) of loose leaf tea into the bowl.

3. Rinse the Leaves (optional):

   • Pour a small amount of hot water over the tea leaves and quickly discard the water. This removes any dust and helps open the leaves.

4. First Brew:

   • Pour the appropriate temperature water over the tea leaves, filling the gaiwan.
   • Place the lid on the gaiwan, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
   • Set a timer for 30-90 seconds (depending on the type of tea).

5. Pour and Enjoy:

   • After the timer goes off, hold the lid slightly tilted and pour the tea into your cup or another vessel, preventing the leaves from spilling out.
   • Enjoy your freshly brewed tea!

6. Subsequent Brews:

   • For additional brews, simply refill the gaiwan with hot water and let it steep for a slightly longer time with each infusion (e.g., add 30 seconds for each subsequent brew).

Tips:

• Adjust tea quantity and steeping times based on personal taste preferences.
• Take note of how flavors develop with each infusion, enjoying the nuanced profiles of your chosen tea.

Enjoy your gaiwan-style tea!