Do You Always Need Boiling Water to Brew Tea?
The water temperature used for brewing tea is a crucial factor in determining the quality of the tea. So, do you always need to use boiling water to brew tea?
Tea Types and Water Temperature
Different types of tea require different water temperatures. For example, green tea and white tea typically require lower water temperatures (70-80°C), while black tea and puerh tea are better brewed with near-boiling water (90-100°C). Using boiling water for green or white tea can damage the delicate components of the leaves, resulting in a loss of the tea's light fragrance and taste.
Boiling Water and Tea Flavor
Boiling water helps extract the active ingredients from tea leaves, especially for teas that can withstand high temperatures, such as black tea and oolong tea. These teas release their aroma and flavor more effectively when brewed with hot water. However, for more delicate teas like white and green tea, using slightly lower water temperatures can prevent overly bitter or astringent flavors.
Conclusion
Not all teas require boiling water. The water temperature should be adjusted based on the type of tea to ensure the best flavor and aroma of the tea.
