The answer is not always straightforward, but traditionally, jasmine tea is made using green tea leaves. While other tea types can be used, the classic method involves scenting green tea with jasmine blossoms.
Understanding Jasmine Tea
Jasmine tea isn't a type of tea plant, but rather a tea that has been flavored with jasmine flowers. The process of creating jasmine tea is unique, emphasizing the fragrant infusion rather than a specific tea leaf type.
How Jasmine Tea is Made Traditionally
- Base Tea: The base tea is typically green tea.
- Scenting Process:
- Growers layer green tea leaves with jasmine blossoms.
- The jasmine blossoms are replaced multiple times until the green tea leaves are thoroughly infused with the jasmine fragrance.
- This is typically repeated several times over a few days to reach the desired level of scent.
- Flavor: The result is a tea that has a distinct floral aroma and a light, delicate flavor.
Other Base Teas
Although green tea is the traditional choice, jasmine tea can also be made with other types of tea:
- Oolong Tea: Some producers use oolong tea as a base.
- Black Tea: Occasionally, black tea is used to create a different flavor profile.
Key Takeaway
While jasmine tea can come in several varieties based on the kind of tea it uses, it traditionally relies on green tea leaves. This method provides the most authentic and delicate flavor profile commonly associated with jasmine tea.
| Aspect | Traditional Method | Other Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Base Tea | Green Tea | Oolong/Black Tea |
| Scenting | Jasmine Blossoms | Jasmine Blossoms |
| Flavor Profile | Light, Floral | Varies |
