How to Make Chinese Green Tea

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Last Updated: March 4, 2021 References

This article details the art of making a cup or pot of green tea using leaves, not bags, by following traditional Chinese methods. Buy some tea, a teapot and some cups. You really don't need to bother with anything else.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Using a Few Leaves

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You will get a few cups of fresh tea for yourself.^{[3]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Using More Leaves to Serve for 4 More People

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Question

Is it safe to drink the leaves in Chinese tea?

Community Answer

It is safe, but it's better to chew them. In China, there are some dishes cooked with tea leaves.

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What is the name of the tea leaf?

Community Answer

It is commonly known as "tea leaf" (seriously), and its scientific name is Camellia Sinensis.

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What is the best time for taking this tea?

Community Answer

You can make it when you feel like it.

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Tips

In Chinese culture, pouring tea for someone can have a lot of meanings.^{[7]
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Research source} When a guest comes, they serve tea to show a sign of welcome. When getting married, a couple kneels on the floor and passes the tea to their parents to express their gratitude. When apologizing in a private place, they stand up, bend their back, pour tea to the one who accept the apology. So, whenever an elder pours out tea for you, it's regarded as a gross politeness.

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Having the spout of the teapot facing anyone may be regarded as a bad manner in a proper tea ceremony, but Chinese usually skip this manner in a casual place.

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Boiled water is too hot for tender green tea leaves. Pouring boiled water upon the leaves will cause the immediate release of tannins, resulting in a bitter brew.

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Warnings

It helps to know how a specific tea will smell before you buy it. If you happen to buy a tea frequently, then you can check at the store if it has gone bad before buying it.

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If you are buying loose leaf tea, make sure you examine what you are putting in the pot. Rarely small objects, such as twigs, foil(depending on the wrapping), or insects can make their way into tea accidentally.

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Watch out for old, out-of-date tea. Check the tea. Smell it. Look at it and check for dried-out leaves. Taste a piece (but don't taste it if is has been wet and in a container for a long time, or smells completely different from its original scent; if it smells sickly sweet [rotted]).

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