In our daily lives, brick tea is a very traditional and unique type of tea. brewing a fragrant cup of brick tea isn't complicated, but it does require some skill and patience. Today, let's discuss the correct way to brew brick tea so you can easily enjoy its delicious Taste at home.

(Image source: network, delete upon request)

What is Brick Tea?

Brick tea is a type of tea that is compressed into a brick shape after steaming, usually for long-term storage. Historically, brick tea was an important commodity in trade, especially as a staple beverage in regions such as Tibet and Mongolia.

Preparation for Brewing Brick Tea

To brew good brick tea, we first need some basic tools and materials:

• Brick tea
• Tea knife or tea pick (for breaking apart the brick tea)
• Teapot or Gaiwan
• Teacup
• Boiling water

Method for Breaking Apart Brick Tea

Brick tea is usually quite hard and requires a tea knife or tea pick to break it apart. Here are the steps:

1. Find the edge or seam of the brick tea and gently insert the tea knife or tea pick.

2. Carefully lift the tea knife or tea pick upward, avoiding excessive force that could cause the tea leaves to break.

3. Place the broken-off tea leaves into a prepared container for later use.

(Image source: network, delete upon request)

The Process of Washing Brick Tea

Washing the tea removes dust and impurities from the surface of the leaves while also awakening their aroma. The steps are as follows:

1. Place the broken tea leaves into a teapot or gaiwan.

2. Pour a small amount of boiling water over them, gently shake the teapot or gaiwan, then quickly discard the rinse water.

The Steps for Properly Brewing Brick Tea

After washing the tea, we can begin the actual brewing process. The specific steps are as follows:

1. Pour boiling water into the teapot or gaiwan; the recommended water temperature is between 90-95 degrees Celsius.

2. Cover with a lid and steep for approximately 20-30 seconds (adjust the Steeping time according to personal preference).

3. Pour the brewed tea into a teacup and savor the clear fragrance of the first infusion.

4. For subsequent infusions, slightly increase the steeping time by about 10 seconds each time.

Tasting Techniques for Brick Tea

Tasting tea involves more than just drinking; it includes smelling the aroma, observing the color, and appreciating the taste. Here are some tips:

1. Before tasting, take a moment to smell the tea's aroma and appreciate its unique scent.

2. Observe the color of the tea liquor; good brick tea typically has a bright, clear red hue.

3. When tasting, sip slowly and savor the changes and layers of flavor in the mouth.

(Image source: network, delete upon request)

Storage Methods for Brick Tea

Properly stored, brick tea can be kept for a long time and even improves with age. Here are some recommendations for storing brick tea:

1. Avoid direct sunlight and store the brick tea in a cool, dry place.

2. Choose packaging materials with good breathability, such as paper boxes or cloth bags.

3. Do not store with items that have strong odors to prevent flavor contamination.

Summary

As a traditional type of tea, brick tea is loved by tea enthusiasts for its unique production methods and rich flavors. By using the correct brewing method, we can fully experience the aroma and taste of brick tea. Hopefully, today's sharing will help you better master the brewing techniques for brick tea and enjoy every cup of tea's delightful moments.