To use fresh tea leaves, you'll essentially follow a similar process to using dried tea, but with a few adjustments to account for their higher moisture content and potency.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Harvest and Prepare (if applicable): If you're harvesting directly from a tea plant, pick young, tender leaves. Gently wash them if necessary to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel. You can either use the leaves immediately or let them slightly wither for a milder flavor. Withering involves spreading the leaves out on a tray for a few hours until they lose some moisture.
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Dosage Adjustment: Fresh tea leaves are more potent than dried ones. Start with about half the amount you would normally use for dried tea. For example, if you typically use 1 tablespoon of dried tea leaves per cup, begin with about 1/2 tablespoon of fresh tea leaves. Adjust to your preference after your first brew.
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Heat Water: Heat fresh, filtered water. The ideal temperature depends on the type of tea you're making:
- Green Tea: 170-185°F (77-85°C)
- White Tea: 170-185°F (77-85°C)
- Oolong Tea: 190-205°F (88-96°C)
- Black Tea: 200-212°F (93-100°C)
Use a tea kettle with a temperature control for accuracy. If you don't have one, bring the water to a boil and then let it cool slightly before pouring.
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Steep the Tea: Place the fresh tea leaves in a teapot, infuser, or directly into your cup. Pour the hot water over the leaves.
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Steeping Time: Steep for a shorter duration than you would for dried tea. Start with these general guidelines and adjust to taste:
- Green Tea: 1-3 minutes
- White Tea: 1-3 minutes
- Oolong Tea: 2-5 minutes
- Black Tea: 3-5 minutes
Taste the tea frequently during steeping to avoid over-extraction, which can lead to bitterness.
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Strain and Serve: Once steeped to your liking, strain the tea leaves (if necessary) and pour the tea into your cup. Enjoy your freshly brewed tea!
Important Considerations:
- Leaf Quality: The quality of the fresh leaves directly impacts the taste. Look for young, undamaged leaves.
- Experimentation: Finding the right amount of leaves and steeping time is a matter of personal preference. Experiment to discover your perfect cup.
- Storage (if not using immediately): If you're not using the fresh tea leaves immediately, store them in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. They're best used within a day or two.
