A Prelude to the Journey of Green Tea
It's no secret that green tea is one of the healthiest beverages out there. Packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds, this drink has been a part of traditional medicine for centuries. However, have you ever wondered how this magic elixir is made? In this blog post, we're going to take you on a journey through the production process of green tea - from the moment the leaves are picked to when they end up in your cup. Get ready to learn something new, and come along for the ride!
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Harvesting the Green Tea Leaves
The process of making green tea starts in the tea garden, where the tea leaves grow on bushes. Green tea is typically made from young leaves, which are picked by hand or using machines. To ensure the highest quality tea, only the tenderest leaves from the tips of the branches are selected. This way, the tea will have a delicate, fresh flavour when it's brewed.
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Preventing Oxidation
Once the tea leaves are picked, they are immediately brought to the processing centre, where they undergo a series of steps to prevent oxidation. This is what sets green tea apart from black tea, which is fully oxidized. To prevent oxidation, the leaves are either steamed or pan-fired, which stops the enzymes responsible for the oxidation process. This step is crucial for maintaining the green colour and fresh flavour of the tea.
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Shaping and Drying the Leaves
After the leaves have been steamed or pan-fired, they are rolled or twisted into various shapes, depending on the type of tea being made. Some green teas are shaped into tight, needle-like shapes, while others are rolled into pearls or ball shapes. These distinctive shapes not only make the tea look beautiful, but they also affect the way it brews and tastes.
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The Final Steps
Once the leaves have been shaped, they are dried thoroughly to remove any remaining moisture. This is typically done using hot air or a special oven, which removes the moisture without damaging the tea. After the tea is dried, it may undergo further processing, depending on the type of tea. For instance, some teas are scented with flowers or herbs, while others are blended with fruit or spices.
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From Garden to Cup
Finally, the tea is packaged and shipped to global markets, where it can be brewed and enjoyed by tea enthusiasts like you! To brew the perfect cup of green tea, start by steeping the leaves in hot water for 2-3 minutes. Be sure to use water that is not boiling, as this can scald the delicate leaves and ruin the flavour. Once your tea is brewed, sit back and enjoy the fresh, grassy flavour and energizing properties of this amazing beverage.
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Appreciating the Journey
As you can see, the process of making green tea is a labour-intensive, multi-step process that requires precision and care at every stage. From the tea garden to your cup, the journey of green tea leaves is one filled with complexity and artistry. The next time you enjoy a cup of green tea, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication that went into its creation. Happy sipping!
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