The first thing that comes to mind during a visit to any Chinese restaurant is the soothing and welcoming aroma of hot tea served alongside dim sum and everything else on the menu. And what if I tell you that there is so much more to it? Why is hot tea served before eating? Whether you wait to try dim sum and soup, the tea has a light bitterness that makes the food taste even better. The primary concern that arises is whether tea can be associated with traditions. As surprising as it sounds, tea accompanied by health influences is a tradition that is full of rich historical adventures, no pun intended.
Today, we will share insights on how to prepare Chinese tea, the varieties that are served in restaurants, and the most interesting parts, like the health benefits of tea served in Chinese restaurants. They could be anything ranging from serving hot water and drinking tea in front of food to setting up new hours, but I am sure in the end, tea and its purpose will leave any work we do greatly.
Types Of Tea’s
Jasmine Green Tea
Jasmine green tea is one of the most iconic teas you can find in Chinese restaurants. This blend begins with a base of green tea that is scented with fresh jasmine blossoms. The result is a tea that’s delicately floral, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced.
- What makes it special? Jasmine tea is prized for its aromatherapy-like properties that help calm the mind and reduce stress while offering a dose of antioxidants.
- Best pairing: Try it with lighter dishes like stir-fried vegetables or dumplings to avoid overpowering the subtle flavor of the tea.
Gunpowder Green Tea
No, it doesn’t explode, but its name comes from its tightly rolled leaves that resemble tiny pellets of gunpowder. When brewed, the leaves unfurl to release a robust, smoky, and slightly acidic flavor profile.
- Health benefits: Gunpowder green tea is packed with catechins, compounds that support heart health and aid in weight management.
- Best pairing: Its bold flavor stands up well to spicy and rich dishes, like kung pao chicken or crispy spring rolls.
China Keemun Black Tea
Keemun is a mellow yet full-bodied black tea that originated in the Qimen County of China. With fruity undertones and hints of honey, this tea is perfect for those who prefer more potent brews.
- What makes it unique? Keemun black tea has a richer flavor than many other black teas.
- Best pairing: Enjoy it alongside pork dumplings or roasted meats for an enanced your experience.
The Health Benefits of Chinese Restaurant Tea
The health benefits of tea served in Chinese restaurants extend beyond its distinct flavors and aromas. With each sip of jasmine, gunpowder green, or even black tea, there is much more than just hydrating that is taking place. Below is how these types of tea add value to our health.
The health benefits of tea served in Chinese restaurants extend beyond its distinct flavors and aromas. With each sip of jasmine, gunpowder green, or even black tea, there is much more than just hydrating that is taking place. Below is how these types of tea add value to our health.
- Increase the Number of Antioxidants
Polyphenols, catechins, and many more are abundant in Chinese tea, which are known to be antioxidants and help battle free radicals. They aid in managing inflammation, shielding cells, and also mitigating the chances of chronic sickness.
- Promotes Digestion
Do you recall tea helping with your stomach after overspending? Green teas primarily aim to help with containing foods. Having tea while or after eating assists in the breakdown of fat and improves its absorption of nutrients.
- Helps With Stress Relieve Techniques
Because of L-theanine that is present in green tea, relieving stress and relaxing is very easy sipping tea. This does not make the person sleepy. This is the reason why that refreshing feeling experienced from a hot cup of tea is so common while in a busy restaurant.
- Aids Metabolism
Tea gunpowder green and other green teas are identified to aid in increasing metabolism greatly and also help the body in losing calories, enabling maintaining optimal weight.
- Boosts Heart Health
Keemun black tea has shown an enhancement in heart health improvement by boosting LDL or harmful cholesterol levels and also aiding good blood pressure from the high content of flavonoids present.
Brewing Tips for the Best Cup
If you are looking forward to trying Chinese tea at home, ensuring its proper preparation is crucial to relishing its authentic taste. Here are a few pointers that are bound to make your brewing journey easy.
- Filtered water always guarantees a crisp taste.
- It is a must to preheat the water to a suitable temperature: around 175-185°F for green teas and boiling for black teas.
- Always remember to steep for 4-5minutes; too much time can lead to bitterness, and must use with green tea.
- Whenever possible, opt for high-quality loose-leaf tea over tea bags to experience full enjoyment and authenticity.
Closing Thoughts
At a Chinese restaurant, tea is more than just a drink—it is a sign of welcome hospitality and serves as a tremendous boost to one’s health. There is a wide selection of types that come from China, including floral jasmine, smoky gunpowder green, and rich Keemun black tea, which can all go perfectly with one’s meal.
You can try to make some of those flavors at home as well, with premium options such as Xin Qing Jasmine Green Tea or FGO Organic Gunpowder Green Tea. A wam cup of tea can be soothing and relaxing at home, just as it is at a person’s favorite restaurant.
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FAQS
How should I properly make Chinese tea?
For the perfect Chinese tea, always ensure you use fresh, filtered water. Additionally, green teas require a temperature of 175–185°F (80–85°C), and black teas need 200–212°F (93–100°C).
What is the ideal steeping time for tea?
The correct steeping time is linked to the type of tea. Green tea should be steeped for approximately 2-3 minutes, while black tea takes 3-5 minutes. For the best results, always check the tea packaging.
Is it possible to reuse the tea leaves?
Many high-quality Chinese teas can be steeped several times. Each brew seems to add more flavour, with the second or third brew tasting the best.
