Brewing Pu-Erh cakes and other compressed Pu-Erh teas in a small Chinese teapot is a delightful ritual that allows you to unlock the rich flavors and aromas these teas have to offer.
Here’s a general brewing guide to help you make the most of your Pu-Erh tea experience:
Tools:
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Teapot:
Pour hot water into the teapot to warm it up. Swirl the water around and then discard it. This helps maintain a consistent brewing temperature.
2. Prepare the Tea:
Break off the desired amount of Pu-Erh tea from the cake. For a small teapot, a piece around 5-7 grams is usually sufficient. The amount can be adjusted based on personal preference and the size of your teapot.
3. Rinse the Tea:
Pour hot water over the tea leaves to rinse them. Let it sit for a few seconds, then discard the water. This step helps awaken the leaves and remove any impurities.
4. First Infusion:
Pour hot water (ideally just below boiling) over the tea leaves. The first infusion is quick, usually around 10-20 seconds. Pour the tea into the teacups.
5. Subsequent Infusions:
Pu-Erh teas are known for multiple infusions. Gradually increase the steeping time with each infusion, starting from 20-30 seconds for the second infusion. Aim for at least 3-5 infusions, or until the flavor begins to fade.
6. Enjoy the Tea:
Take a moment to appreciate the rich, earthy aroma and nuanced flavors of the Pu-Erh tea. Note how the taste profile evolves with each infusion.
7. Storage of Compressed Tea:
If you’re not finishing the entire cake in one sitting, ensure the remaining tea is stored in a cool, dry place away from odors. It’s common for compressed Pu-Erh teas to be aged, so they may develop more complex flavors over time.
Tips:
Experiment with water temperature, starting just below boiling, and adjust based on your preferences.
Embrace the ceremonial aspect of the tea preparation, taking the time to appreciate each infusion.
Use a tea strainer when pouring into teacups if you find there are small tea particles in the liquid.
This method allows you to unlock the full potential of compressed Pu-Erh tea, providing a series of infusions that showcase the tea’s complexity and depth.
