#Oolong tea flavor profile

[wisdomandroyalty]

Exploring the Crafting and Flavors of the 4 Distinct Types of Tea

Discover the world of tea! 🍵 Explore the unique flavors of black, green, white, and oolong teas. Unveil the Camellia sinensis secrets and savor their health benefits. #TeaVariety #SipAndEnjoy #WizBlog #Food

Prepare to uncover the fascinating reality behind four much-loved teas in this enlightening article. Delve into the intricate process of crafting their distinct flavors and discover how they are expertly prepared and served, promising an indulgent and invigorating experience like no other. Tea is a universally cherished beverage that holds a special place in the hearts of people worldwide,…

[grandmother-goblin]

Reblog for bigger sample sizes. I know there are LOTS of types of teas out there, and I tried to cover most of the ones I could think of (I split up herbal because there are so many different flavor profiles!)

Also, I know the names might vary based on where you live and there are a lot more subcategories than what I listed. If there are any that I haven't listed that you love, please let me know!

[wellhealthhub]

Oolong Tea: Unveiling the Enchanting Benefits of this Elegantly Balanced Brew

Amidst the vast ocean of beverages, few contenders can match the elegance and wellness prowess exuded by oolong tea. This extraordinary tea, gracefully poised between the realms of green and black teas, has been revered across diverse cultures for ages due to its distinct flavor profile and a plethora of potential health advantages. Embark on a captivating journey with us, as we embark on an…

[misc-obeyme]

Okay so im a massive tea snobdrinker. Love me my leaf juice. I love everything from old school Chinese to full English drowning in milk. If the OM cast had a signature tea, what do you think they would be?

Personally I can't see Mammon drinking anything but coffee, and Lucifer has a thing for premium aged Pu-er, but the rest elude me. Earl gray seems a little obvious for barbs, so I thought I'd ask an expert 😉

Also congrats on the 50k+ word fiction. Can't wait to read it! I'm seriously thinking of ways to put Pandora on page properly, of which you have her thanks.

-🪿honk

Oh, thank you! It was never meant to be that long but here we are 🙃

I do hope you write Pandora's story if you're inspired to!! For me, it's truly the highest of compliments when someone says I've inspired them to write or create something... I hope you enjoy the journey!

Okay, okay, so tea.

I'm kind of a snob too but I also drink coffee... I like all kinds of fancy drinks! But I haven't really considered what I think the characters' signature might be so now I'm curious about it.

Lucifer is interesting because he's canonically a tea drinker - his and Barb's chatroom is called Tea Demons lol. And I think you're right, he's gonna go for the rare or more involved type of tea and the way pu-er is made that checks right out to me.

I kinda think Mammon would drink chai tea lattes. I don't know why, but something about that combo of spicy sweet just makes me think of him.

Levi doesn't strike me as a tea drinker much at all. He gives off massive energy drink vibes. But I could see him maybe going for some southern style sweet tea or like... an Arnold Palmer or something. An obvious exception would be if there was some kind of tea specific to an anime he was into lol.

They don't really talk about Satan drinking tea, but he absolutely strikes me as a drinker of tea. One of his hobbies is latte art so I could see him experimenting with tea lattes. But I think just for regular drinking, he would probably go herbal. Chamomile or mint or maybe lemon.

Asmo likes pretty tea so I assign him hibiscus tea. Either hot or iced, it's this gorgeous dark red. I also think he'd like to dump sugar into his tea and that actually makes hibiscus tea taste delicious imo. I also see him going floral in other ways like maybe having traditional black tea but flavored with rose or lavender.

Beel strikes me as a citrus guy. Orange spice tea. I could also see him enjoying something like peach tea. Or teas that are specifically made for like... giving you energy and such. You know for workouts?

Belphie probably drinks Sleepy Time tea lol. I mean that's probably too on brand but it'd be funny. Still, something soothing like chamomile is probably best for him.

I kinda get the sense that Diavolo will drink whatever tea Barbatos serves him. And I think he probably prefers Devildom varieties. But if he was going to have something from the human world, I'd have to go with acai berry tea. It's also dark red which gives me Dia vibes, but it's naturally a little sweeter than hibiscus so you don't have to add a ton of sugar.

Ahh Barbatos. I'm flattered you think of me as an expert. But it's hard to choose one for him because he seems to appreciate the flavors and uses of many different blends. However, if I was going to choose something, it'd be Jasmine green tea. Simple, elegant, with a subtle flavor profile that's easy to mess up if you don't brew it right, and a hint of floral. I could also see him particularly enjoying silver moonlight white tea - rare and harvested only beneath a full moon. That just feels like the kind of mysterious vibe Barb would like lol.

I think Simeon seems like he would also enjoy a variety of flavors, but I'd give him oolong. It's like in between black and green, smooth and sweet, just kind of perfect, like he is.

Solomon is the Earl Grey drinker. Classic and robust, with its black tea flavor enhanced with that little burst of bergamot. He might drink it black too but he likely puts milk in it. Though I can see him also enjoying it in latte form. I'm just imagining Satan making him London Fogs with cats drawn in the foam~

Mephisto probably drinks only Devildom tea lol. But if I'm gonna say what I think he'd be into rooibos. It's another red tea, so we've got his flamboyance, but it's more earthy in flavor than either hibiscus or acai which I think would fit his palate. Plus we know that he dumps sugar in his tea and I think a good rooibos could handle that.

Raphael strikes me as an English Breakfast tea drinker. Give him the classic black tea blend with some milk, but no sugar. I don't know why, it just feels no nonsense like him lol.

Lastly I give Thirteen matcha tea. Thirteen is different in many ways - the only female in the cast, the only reaper, etc. And matcha is tea but it's different and it has a unique flavor. And matcha powder can be used in all kinds of things, too. It's versatile. And I think all of that fits with her personality.

Oh dear I seem to have written an essay on tea. It's fine, it's fine, I'm totally normal about this I promise.

[brilla-brilla-estrellita]

SnowBaz Tea: SSCoNE 2024

As part of our 2024 event, we had a tea party at The Bookworm in Omaha. I was tasked with deciding which teas we would be having. And by "tasked with," I mean I took this task on myself without asking despite the fact that @shrekgogurt was in charge of food. But at least it was still related to an activity, which I was in charge of, right?

Anyway, I, along LavenderSprinkles and RynMar (neither on tumblr, but both on AO3), spent a lot of time looking at different teas for the best SnowBazzy options to have at our tea party. We had to narrow it down to 3, but I found so many good options, I didn't want them to go to waste! And I didn't get a chance to talk much about the ones I did decided on, either.

For now, I'll just discuss the teas we did choose. The tea house all of these blends come from is my absolute favorite: Friday Afternoon Tea (Whoa, I just discovered they're on tumblr! Hi @friday-tea!). It is a queer latine owned and operated small business that specializes in creating blends inspired by your favorite fandoms. It has been called "The Gayest Tea Shop on the West Coast" by Cosmopolitan Magazine: a title that the owner and employees proudly carry. No, they don't pay me for this. I just really freaking love their tea and the community they strive to create. So who else would I go to for our SnowBaz tea party?

French Cookie

Ingredients: Black tea, almond, orange peel (replaced with lemon peel to avoid an allergy in the group), natural vanilla and almond flavoring

Fandom Blend? No, house blend

Representing: Simon

This tea can actually come as a black tea, a rooibos, or an oolong. I had originally planned for rooibos to make sure we had a decaf option, but once I found Small Lady, I went back to our tried and true favorite black tea base.

This is one has been a long time coming. Back when I first read the series, LavenderSprinkles and I spent all of our free time thinking about the characters. At one point I asked her, "If Simon were a tea, what tea would he be?" She immediately answered "almond rooibos." (Though in my opinion, it's a better fit for what Simon would actually drink than what Simon would be. Either way, it's Simony). It wasn't until planning for SSCoNE that I realized (and she confirmed) that she was specifically thinking about French Cookie. Since the original discussion, LavenderSprinkles has started getting the black tea version for iced tea in the summer, and it's delicious, so we knew it would work great for the tea party. I think I'll have to go back and try the rooibos version again, though!

Derpy Hooves

Ingredients: Black tea, white tea, marigold, natural vegan cream flavoring, bergamot oil

Fandom Blend? My Little Pony

Representing: Baz

I knew I wanted a floral tea for Baz, and Derpy Hooves delivered! I hadn't had it before and it was so good, at least for a floral tea lover like myself. And bergamot oil? Obviously.

I had no idea what fandom this was from when I picked it. Once I realized it was My Little Pony, I just about died. My first thought was "Baz would be horrified!" After a moment, though, I decided that Baz would secretly know all about MLP becuase of his sisters. Ever since I started thinking about what the crew would wear to see Barbie (omg, a whole year ago???), I've had a headcanon that Petra is a total horse girl.

There were sooo many good Baz teas, but a lot of them were very... unusual. For the tea party, we figured a tea that would be appealing to lots of people would be the better choice, so I picked a more moderate flavor profile, but I am very excited to talk about some of the other ones I found in a future post!

Small Lady

Ingredients: Rooibos, sour cherry, strawberry, pink peppercorn, sugar star sprinkles (removed because of potential soy allergen), pink lustre dust, natural black cherry flavoring, bergamot oil

Fandom Blend? Sailor Moon

Representing: A Lady Ruth Tea Party

I mean. Sour cherry and bergamot oil alone are Simon and Baz. Add in the pink, the glitter, the black cherry, the strawberry, the sprinkles and tell me you don't have a Lady Ruth creation on your hands. And yes, I said glitter! Unfortunatley this didn't come through at the tea party. I think the tea bags I put the loose leaf in didn't allow for the glitter to escape. But I promise you it's adorable and that glitter makes it through all but the finest grained teabags and steepers. When I brew it at home, it is sparkling.

This was the most commented-on tea at the party (in a good way), and it makes sense! It's fun and fruity and light and can be as gay as it wants. It can even be extra gay, as a treat! (Seriously, you could order this and ask them to add glitter of every color or rainbow sprinkles or something.) (They might charge extra if you get really wild -- I'm not sure.)

Bonus Tea: AO3

Ingredients: Oolong tea, aloe vera, orange peel, osmanthus, natural orange flavoring, natural cream aroma

Fandom Blend? General fandom

Representing: All of us weirdos

We ended up not getting this one for the tea party because it's so orange heavy (an allergen for some), and taking out or substituting the orange would just not be the same. But when I tell you I squealed when they revealed this blend for the first time! Unfortunately, I forgot to get some before it went out of seasons, so I will eagerly await its return next year.

That's all for now. I will have at least one more post with some of the runner up teas, but I have a feeling this might become a series with how many teas are in the (always growing) Friday Afternoon Tea catalogue alone.

[chthonic-cassandra]

Some tea recommendations for @argyleheir (sorry it's taken me a while!). Their stated preferences: "I enjoy a wide range of teas but tend to prefer bold black varieties, and these potentially with fruity or floral undertones rather than a specifically floral tea. Prefer citrus over berry, especially lemon. Bitter flavors are good. I do also enjoy classic jasmine quite a lot :) I'll put milk in if the flavor is enhanced, but not otherwise."

If you haven't ever had Constant Comment, I think you might like it very much - it's a black tea with citrus and warm spice, readily available at many American grocery stores.

Dark Iris by August Uncommon is a flavored oolong with the richness of a black tea. Its complex flavor profile includes lime, peach, and pistachio. I've been meaning also to try August Uncommon's Metropolitan, which also looks like it might suit your tastes.

For a strong unflavored black tea with an edge of bitterness, I'd recommend pu-erh.

[llondonfog]

lettie i need an expert opinion. how does one enjoy tea?

i need warm drinks for a medical thing, but oh my god. i am having no luck with tea. i never have. coffee is not an option, and while i do enjoy hot chocolate, it's not something i can drink every day.

any advice would be lovely.

allow me to wax poetically (and hopefully practically) about tea (and i do hope it helps and eases your medical strains <3)

this might sound a little silly, but for me, tea enjoyment starts with the ritual of it all. heating water up in a kettle (mine's pink, naturally...i cling to the aesthetic...), selecting a tea from my pantry shelf that's entirely devoted to many loose leaf types and flavors, measuring it out into a tea infuser, selecting a cup or mug that matches the mood i'm feeling, setting a timer for however long that tea is meant to steep, and then finally settling into a steaming mug that i've prepared for myself by curling up with a book, putting on a show i've been meaning to watch, or simply opening the windows and watching the world outside while my cat sits next to me.

i say all of this because, again, it might sound silly, but it's part of a calming ritual helps me either start the day when i get up early before work, settles me from the frustrations and hectic demands of work when i get home, soothes me before bed, or when i'm making it for friends and family, an act of love where each detail is cared for so that i can savor the delight of the person i'm entertaining. i know this isn't much about flavors/types, which i suspect is where you might be headed, but i think it's equally as important because tea preparation can take anywhere between 5-10 minutes, and those minutes should be yours to center yourself.

now, for tea types: (important because tea can be ridiculously expensive and why waste your money on something you won't even reach for twice speaks from devastated experience and tea betrayals)

real quick to touch on before the flavor profile breakdown; tea types differ in caffeine widely. depending on what your goal is with tea, it can have a negative effect on your sleeping schedule (black/matcha- surprisingly high depending on the amount) if you drink concentrated volumes closer to bedtime

i have an awful penchant for black teas— i find them to be full-bodied and with such interesting, heavy flavors that i gravitate to them naturally. since they can be so biting and bitter though, i know many people might choose to soften the tea with sugar or honey to your taste preferences, but....i really just enjoy it plain, i don't tend to alter the taste of my teas if at all. there's been a wide range of tea companies/grocers in general carrying london fog or chai tea mixes in cartons at the store? i've seen them in walmart/krogers/target, and they're fairly decent? rishi and target's brand of london fog mix definitely ties for first place for me if i have to make it quickly at home lol

herbals/greens can be a hit and miss— i really dislike the heavily flavored teas that just have essential oils and shit added to them to make the flavors more pungent, i never enjoy those lol i tend to reach for these though when i'm feeling like i have a cold or like now when i'm currently cramping. a good friend sent me some maple herbal tea from the adirondack, and i'm mourning my last cup of it as it literally has carried me through so many awful period cycles. again, these teas can be flavored with sugar or honey just to add to their sweetness, but i really don't find it necessary as i prefer the original taste of the tea.

white and oolongs are probably my second favorite, but they can be very...light in flavor, almost aromatic instead of bodied. it can sometimes feel like you're drinking heated water with a floral aftertaste and hey, on some days, maybe that's just what you want lol. (again, sweeten how/to your desire, i just prefer not to do so.)

and matcha is a class all on its own lol i know it can be very divisive tea depending on the amount of sweetening you do or don't since it can be almost...fishy? if that's a good way to describe it? this is the only tea i'll add a LOT of sugar/simple syrup to when i order it. my mother thinks it is a bastardized foul but i'll order a 24 oz matcha with 3 pumps of rosewater syrup and it is honestly fixes whatever the hell is wrong with me (for at least 24 hours lol). i wouldn't advise for the matcha premixes in the cartons at the grocery store, i've tried a few and...bleh. there's something so artificial about them (i say, slurping a sugarfied sludge of matcha and rose).

so i literally am opening my pantry to list out a few and their types that i enjoy, to hopefully give a sense of their flavors:

queue mignonne tea, yuzu & earl grey— this one has such a pleasant citrus kick to a typical earl grey flavor, i love it in the mornings to wake up the senses!

maple herbal tea— a mix of chamomile, rooibos, sunflower, calendula, and maple; instantly soothed my aches and cramps, but it could have been a placebo effect just because i loved this tea so damn much lol

sleepytime tea by celestial seasonings— i can't explain this tea haha it's the tea from my childhood. my father would always make this for me when i was sick and i just associate it with warmth.

milk oolong/double milk oolong— has a meaty flavor? literally the only way i can explain it, very deep and heavy on the tongue. but it's one i reach for when i have cramps too, and it's a good staple i keep around.

ma wei moonlight & white peony— VERY LIGHT flavor teas; floral and sweet in nature, moonlight is heavy gardenia scented while the peony is....peony lol.

olbas wellness tea— THIS IS NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED. this is a swiss herbal tea of over 20 different herbs that i swear to god, will knock your sinuses clear open within five seconds of inhaling/drinking. a little, A LITTLE!! goes such a long way with this tea, it's got such a pungent and unique flavor, i literally just keep it around for the winter to knock myself back into coherence lol

and as a fun little extra, i have to say that my favorite hot drink outside of tea (if it's a possibility for you) is wassail, especially now in the wintertime. it's a recipe from my grandmother and a little different than what you might find online, but basically cider and fruit juice, an orange studded with cloves, cinnamon sticks, and cooked in a crock pot for at least four hours before enjoying; it literally is a balm for the soul, and i'm more than happy to share the full recipe if it's of any interest<3

did this answer anything or did i simply ramble on about tea......

[ask-barbatos]

A Guide to Camellia Sinensis

Dear students, allow me to share a small glimpse into the world of tea, a beverage that has brought comfort and joy to countless souls for millennia. The heart of true tea lies in the Camellia sinensis plant, a highly cultivated plant native to East Asia.

From the lush fields of China to the mist-kissed mountains of India, this plant has been cultivated with great care, its leaves steeped in hot water to create a beverage of unparalleled beauty and complexity.

The cut of the tea leaf plays a significant role in its flavor and character. Whole leaves, broken leaves, fannings, and dust each offer a unique experience, from the robust to the delicate.

Whole leaves, for instance, provide a full-bodied flavor and a long-lasting infusion, making them a popular choice for those seeking a traditional tea experience.

Broken leaves, on the other hand, offer a more intense flavor and a quicker steeping time, making them ideal for those who prefer a stronger brew.

Fannings and dust, the smallest particles of tea, offer a rapid infusion and a concentrated flavor, perfect for those who are short on time or simply desire a strong cup of tea.

Pictured above: Taylor's English Breakfast tea on the left and Taylor's Earl Grey on the right, to demonstrate the visual difference between whole and cut.

The preparation process, from the gentle steeping of Chinese gongfu cha to the robust brewing techniques of Western tea culture, can dramatically alter the taste and aroma of your tea.

Chinese gongfu cha, for example, involves using small, porcelain teapots and cups, and steeping the tea for very short periods of time. This method allows for a more delicate and nuanced flavor profile.

Western tea culture, on the other hand, often involves steeping tea in larger teapots for longer periods of time, resulting in a bolder and more robust flavor.

I invite you, students, to embark on a journey of tea discovery. Explore the vast world of Camellia sinensis, from the subtle nuances of white tea to the bold flavors of black tea. With each sip, you may find a new appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

Now, let us delve deeper into the popular cuts of tea and their preferred preparation methods.

White Tea:

Cut: Often consists of young whole leaves or buds that have been minimally processed.

Preparation: Gentle steeping in cool water for a short period to preserve its delicate flavor and light color.

Flavor: Known for its subtle, floral, and slightly sweet taste.

Green Tea:

Cut: Typically consists of whole leaves or broken leaves that have been steamed or pan-fried to prevent oxidation.

Preparation: Steeping in hot water for a short period to retain its fresh, grassy flavor and vibrant green color.

Flavor: Varies widely depending on the specific type of green tea, but often characterized by a clean, grassy, or vegetal taste.

Oolong Tea:

Cut: Can vary from whole leaves to broken leaves, but is often partially oxidized, resulting in a unique flavor profile between green and black teas.

Preparation: Steeping in hot water for a longer period, allowing the leaves to fully bloom and release their complex flavors.

Flavor: Offers a wide range of flavors, from floral and fruity to nutty and earthy.

Black Tea:

Cut: Typically consists of broken leaves or fannings that have been fully oxidized.

Preparation: Steeping in boiling water for a longer period to extract its strong, bold flavors.

Flavor: Known for its rich, full-bodied taste, often with notes of chocolate, caramel, or spice.

Each type of tea offers a unique experience, and the best way to appreciate their individual qualities is to experiment with different preparation methods and steeping times. So, dear mortals, I encourage you to embark on a journey of tea discovery and savor the beauty of Camellia sinensis.

Various definitions:

First Flush: The first cuttings of the plant in early spring, often yielding a higher quality tea.

Silver Tips: A white tea made from the delicate buds of a tea plant.

Below is a table indicating steep times:

Notes:

This table provides a general guideline. Steeping time and temperature can vary depending on the specific tea and desired flavor strength.

Some teas, like white tea, benefit from multiple short infusions instead of a single long steep.

Experiment with different steeping times and temperatures to find your perfect cup.

Water temperature is crucial. Using water that is too hot can burn the tea leaves, resulting in a bitter taste.

The more water is heated, the more oxygen is released from the water. The oxygen is important to bring out the flavor of your tea, so please be vigilant as to not exceed your water temperature. A great tool for novices and experts alike would be a temperature controlled electric kettle.

In addition to the cut of the tea leaf and the preparation method, the quality of the water used can also significantly impact the taste of your tea. Soft, mineral-free water is generally preferred for tea brewing, as it allows the delicate flavors of the tea to shine through without being overwhelmed by strong mineral tastes.

A good starting point would be mountain spring water or filtered water, specifically with as neutral a pH as possible. Distilled water is not recommended, although neutral in pH, lacks the oxygen needed to bring out the sublime flavor in tea.

Hard water, on the other hand, contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can react with the tannins in tea, creating a bitter or astringent taste. While some people may enjoy the added flavor complexity that hard water can impart, it is generally best to use soft water for optimal tea flavor.

If you live in an area with hard water, consider using a water filter or a mineral remover to soften the water before brewing your tea. This can make a noticeable difference in the taste and overall quality of your beverage.

Next subject will include flavor infused teas such as Jasmine, Earl Grey, and Fruit teas.

[kaerinio]

@drakonprince approached her grace: does your muse consume more caffeine or less caffeine than the average person? how do they typically consume it?

in canon, daenerys' caffeine fix typically comes in the form of black teas — — — her favorites being something akin to oolong and ceylon due to the robust flavors — — — with a couple dollops of honey. that being said, she consumes less caffeine than the average person. while she loves tea and may even occasionally break her fast with it, she's not really downing it for the caffeine, nor does she have any set ritual for consuming it. she drinks tea to relish in the delightful flavor and delicious warmth, and she does so on a whim. now, in modern settings, it is quite the opposite. while she'll tell people that she's a tea person (and truly, she is!), daenerys winds up drinking more coffee daily than tea to keep herself going and to keep her energy up while she's juggling her caseload, the numerous boards she's on, and the various causes she devotes her time to. you can usually find dany carrying around some reusable vessel filled with hot or iced coffee. tea, though, is like a luxury, and she likes to dedicate time to it. it is an indulgence. the quality of coffee she keeps around her home and buys on the go is varying/does not really matter to her, especially since she typically overwhelms the base flavor with milk and sugar; however, when it comes to tea, she always buys the good stuff, and she has a gorgeous set she uses to brew and serve it. how she takes her tea depends on the flavor profile. for some teas, she'll take the steaming cup as is; for others, she may add sugar, honey, lemon, or lavender. before the day is over, she'll at least consume a lulling serving of lavender and chamomile tea on her sofa, surrounded by her three dogs, as a part of her nighttime routine. all that to say . . . canon dany consumes much less while modern dany is practically always buzzing with caffeine.

[bandyriddles]

It's another fall heatwave here in Brooklyn, so I'm sharing my go-to method for keeping cool that I picked up from my below the Mason-Dixon line days: drink iced beverages all day long.

I'm no longer a sweet tea girlie, but I do love unsweetened iced tea and Serious Eats completely changed my approach to cold brewing it. The trick to get the full flavor profile with a cold brew is to cold steep for 1 hour at room temperature, and then finish the brew overnight in the fridge. I do this a big glass carafe. You can also use something like a french press if you want to use loose leaf tea.

I tend to go for lower caffeine options because I like to drink a lot of tea and I already have coffee first thing in the morning. Especially good cold brewed:

Hibiscus (agua de jamaica) tea is pictured above. Caffeine free and naturally sour, you can drink this all day long. I love to add a bag of peppermint tea to the mix as well. Also great with a little sugar and fresh lime juice. Hibiscus can mildly lower blood pressure in large quantities, so just be wary if you have low blood pressure.

Barley tea (mugicha) is another great caffeine free one. Roasty toasty and so refreshing, kind of like iced coffee. Got into this during a May trip to Japan. It can be somewhat difficult to find in American grocery stores, but Asian markets often have this in big tea bags especially for cold brewing.

Hojicha, a roasted green tea. In general, toasty flavors become super lovely and mellow when iced.

Kukicha, aka twig tea. Made primarily from tea stems a bit more oxidized than standard green tea. Low caffeine.

Oolong is really good cold-brewed. I like a more oxidized/roasted variety for this method. Like traditionally brewed oolong, you can also get multiple steeps out of it if you're using loose leaf. Each subsequent steep will have less caffeine.

[icecoldwilliams]

𝑪𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓: @withpoison | ✲・*:･ﾟ✲･ﾟ:*  ˚ₓ

There's comfort found in routine. Laying within something as simple as a mere sip of tea. Robust, sharp, full-bodied familiarity. — An assassin's favorite, black with a touch of Assam.

No unpredictability.

The cup of Oolong currently warming her hands however? It donned a flavor palette as erratic as they come. – Vast range of characteristics, each taste like playing roulette with what you'll get today.

In her line of work, the atypical partner on joint missions was all the same. Amateur or skilled asset. Crippling narcissist or idealistic vigilante. Modus operandi at times varying more than the number of fish in the sea, stars in the sky... or worse, the number of lives on their heads.

And yet somehow despite the idiosyncrasies the experience could always be summed up as one thing:

A nuisance.

Nina preferred matters brisk. Swift, precise execution ending in being paid her dues. Learning another's methods takes time, profiling motives even more so, and already this occasions necessary crutch was wasting what little they had.

Ten minutes after the agreed rendezvous and here the blonde was, waiting among the mutually silent atmosphere of the riverside tavern. Replacing her cup of tea with a compact mirror to catch a glimpse of a almost coequal serpent over her shoulder.

Slithering away while she could only sigh.

❝I gave you the courtesy of meeting on your home turf... The least you could do is minimize the initial observation..❞

[theconstitutionisgayculture]

You should try a light roast coffee with a dash of milk or half n half. Or heavy whipping cream, or oat milk. Or whatever you think you'd like best.

With a light roast coffee, you can often avoid that very strong and bitter flavor of dark or medium roasts, even if you were to drink it black. Actually, light roast often have a light, citrusy tone. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if you were able to find a light roast in the ballpark of oolong tea since I personally feel that black teas and light coffees are close companions.

Milk will give it a dash of sweet creaminess. Half n half or whipping cream will give it more of a tart (think sour cream) flavor but a rich texture. I've had coffee with butter in it, which was not my favorite, but the idea is that your coffee can substitute for a meal.

>> I don't drink dairy alternatives, so idk what the draw might be to oat milk etc.

Or, like your anon who asked about the coffee, you could try just diluting the beverage with a bit of water. That's probably where I would start if I had to start drinking coffee all over again, bc, like with whiskey, adding different levels of water can help control how strong the flavor is without changing the profile. I personally prefer my coffee iced. It's wondrous how the ice subtlety alters the flavor.

Anyway, coffee is a hobby of mine, so I thought I'd tell you, your dad's super bitter black coffee you couldn't stomach as a kid doesn't represent coffee as a whole (I'm sure you know). There are lots of options for people who don't want that really bitter black stuff. White espressos, blondes, various coffee/cream concoctions of Italian origin. I get the impression you're particular about food, but who knows? You could find something you like!

☕☕☕

Cheers!

Damn, this is super detailed. I love it. Thanks for the recommendations! I think I'd probably try the milk first though. I like sweet drinks a lot. Sweet, desserty coffee is what I was hoping to try, actually.

[optionalcausality]

Cool random food I tried today: grass jelly.

The flavor was interesting in part because it has three components: the primary flavor of the plant (in the mint family) that is its own unique thing, the sweetness of the gelatin, and then this sort of underlay that reminded me of tea but was otherwise hard to place.

Turns out, the process used in aging & fermenting the plant's leaves is very similar to the process used for oolong tea. So the third part of the grass jelly's distinctive flavor profile is whatever that process imparts. It's just neat!

[madamlaydebug]

What’s the most consumed beverage on the planet? (well, besides water) Tea. ☕ 🍵

According to legend, #tea was discovered accidentally by Shen Nung, a Chinese emperor who was pleasantly surprised by the flavor of his drink after tea leaves fell into his pot of boiling water.

Since then, tea is a staple in households around the world, at the #breakfast table, or serving as a #caffeine pick me up during the day. The four main categories are: black, oolong, green and white. We’ll break down each tea’s special properties and caffeine amounts:

☕ Black: the most popular (accounts for 84% of all tea consumed!) and the most caffeinated: 50 mg caffeine / 8 fl oz

☕ Oolong: hailing from southern China and Taiwan, it’s similar to black tea, but with slightly less caffeine: 38 mg caffeine/ 8 fl oz

🍵 Green: second most consumed tea, it gets its color from tea leaves that are not oxidized and maintain their green hue. Responsible for your favorite matcha concoctions when it’s ground into a powder, it contains: 25 mg caffeine/ 8 fl oz

🌿 White: the least processed and least caffeinated: 15 mg caffeine/ 8 fl oz

🌼 Herbal: from a different plant than the four above; popular versions include #mint, #chamomile and #rooibos, and contain no caffeine.

And that’s the tea. 😉

MATCHA IS GREEN TEA ON STEROIDS❗ It has twice the relaxed energy profile of coffee and more antioxidant power. If that's not enough it's mean green, which means it is rich in chlorophyll, one of the few phytonutrients that can simultaneously nourish AND detoxify. In addition to its intense nutrient density, Matcha has some unique detoxification properties.

[dilnak]

The Art of Tea: A Journey through Culture, Health, and Flavor

Tea, the second most consumed beverage in the world after water, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. Beyond being a comforting drink, tea embodies culture, health benefits, and a world of flavors. In this article, we'll take a journey through the world of tea, exploring its origins, its impact on culture, its many health benefits, and the myriad of flavors it offers.

The Origins of Tea

The story of tea begins in ancient China, where legend has it that Emperor Shen Nong discovered tea around 2737 BCE when tea leaves blew into a pot of boiling water he was preparing. Over time, tea became deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, influencing everything from art and philosophy to medicine and daily rituals.

Tea eventually made its way to Japan, where it took on its own unique traditions, most notably in the form of the Japanese tea ceremony, or Chanoyu. This ritualistic practice celebrates the preparation and consumption of matcha, a powdered green tea that emphasizes mindfulness, aesthetics, and respect.

The British also played a significant role in tea's global spread. During the 17th century, the British East India Company began importing tea from China, making it popular in England and eventually leading to the Boston Tea Party in 1773, a pivotal event in the lead-up to the American Revolution.

Tea and Culture

Tea has had a profound influence on the cultures it has touched. In China, tea has long been associated with Confucianism and Daoism, and it has played a central role in various social rituals and ceremonies. In Japan, the tea ceremony is not just a cultural practice but a spiritual one, emphasizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

In British culture, the tradition of afternoon tea became popular in the 19th century, and it remains a cherished custom today, complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and a pot of Earl Grey or English breakfast tea.

Tea and Health

Beyond its cultural significance, tea offers a wide range of health benefits. The leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which produces black, green, white, and oolong teas, contain polyphenols, antioxidants, and other compounds that have been linked to various health advantages.

Antioxidants: Tea is rich in antioxidants, such as catechins in green tea and theaflavins in black tea. These compounds help combat free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Mental Alertness: Tea contains caffeine, which, though less than coffee, can provide a gentle and sustainable energy boost without the jittery side effects.

Weight Management: Green tea, in particular, is believed to aid in weight management by boosting metabolism and promoting fat oxidation.

Digestive Health: Herbal teas like peppermint and ginger can soothe digestive discomfort, helping with issues like indigestion and bloating.

Stress Reduction: The ritual of making and sipping tea can have a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Flavors of the World

Tea's diversity goes beyond its cultural significance and health benefits. Different types of tea are created through varying processes, resulting in a wide array of flavors.

Green Tea: Known for its grassy and earthy flavors, green tea is minimally processed, preserving its natural color and fresh taste. Varieties like Sencha, Matcha, and Dragonwell offer distinct profiles.

Black Tea: Black tea, with its robust and bold flavors, undergoes full oxidation. Varieties like Assam, Darjeeling, and Earl Grey showcase the diversity within this category.

White Tea: White tea is the least processed, resulting in a delicate, floral, and slightly sweet taste. Silver Needle and White Peony are well-known white tea varieties.

Oolong Tea: Falling between green and black tea in terms of oxidation, oolong teas are complex and nuanced. They can range from light and floral to dark and rich, with Tie Guan Yin and Da Hong Pao being notable examples.

Herbal and Fruit Infusions: Beyond the traditional tea types, there's a world of herbal and fruit infusions, including chamomile, peppermint, hibiscus, and more, each offering unique and delightful flavors.

Conclusion

Tea is more than just a beverage; it's a cultural treasure, a source of well-being, and a voyage of flavors waiting to be explored. From the serene Japanese tea ceremonies to the bustling British afternoon teas and the myriad health benefits, tea continues to captivate hearts and minds around the world. So, whether you're seeking a moment of tranquility, a boost of energy, or simply a delightful taste experience, a cup of tea is always ready to take you on a journey of culture, health, and flavor.

[chineseteaset]

Chinese Gongfu Tea Set

Chinese Gongfu Tea Set: Mastering the Art of Tea Brewing

The Chinese Gongfu tea set represents a refined approach to tea brewing, deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of China. “Gongfu” translates to “skill” or “effort,” which speaks to the precision and care involved in preparing tea using this method. It’s not just about brewing tea—it’s about creating an immersive experience that engages all the senses, allowing one to appreciate the flavors, aromas, and the beauty of the tea itself.

Key Components of a Gongfu Tea Set

A traditional Chinese Gongfu tea set is designed to facilitate multiple small infusions, extracting the best flavors from high-quality loose-leaf teas. Here are the essential items included:

Tea Pot (Yixing or Gaiwan): The Yixing teapot, made from purple clay, is highly favored in Gongfu tea ceremonies due to its porous nature, which enhances the flavor of the tea. Alternatively, the Gaiwan, a lidded bowl, is used for brewing and drinking.

Tea Cups: These are typically smaller than Western-style cups, designed to allow multiple infusions and savor each sip slowly.

Tea Pitcher (Cha Hai): This vessel is used to even out the strength of the tea between infusions, ensuring a consistent flavor.

Tea Tray: A specialized tray with drainage to hold the teapot and cups, allowing excess water to drain away during the brewing process.

Tea Utensils: This includes the tea scoop, tea needle, and tea tongs, which help handle the leaves and the cups without disrupting the ceremony.

The Art of Brewing

Using the Gongfu tea set involves a methodical process. First, the tea is rinsed briefly to awaken the leaves, then steeped in short, controlled infusions. Each infusion reveals different layers of flavor, and the ritual itself encourages a mindful, meditative state.

Unlike the typical Western tea set, where tea is brewed in one go, the Gongfu method allows for several rounds of steeping. Each round offers a slightly different profile, highlighting the richness and depth of the tea.

The Role of Clay and Porcelain

When choosing a Gongfu tea set, the materials matter. Clay teapots from Yixing, particularly favored for oolong or pu-erh teas, absorb the essence of the tea over time, enriching each brew. Porcelain tea sets, on the other hand, are prized for their non-porous nature, which preserves the purity of lighter teas like green or white teas.

Cultural Significance

The Gongfu tea ceremony is more than just about tea—it’s a cultural experience that reflects Chinese values of balance, harmony, and respect. Every element, from the utensils to the process, is steeped in history and designed to bring out the best in the tea.

The practice of using a Gongfu tea set is becoming popular outside China as well, with tea enthusiasts around the world appreciating the meditative, detailed process of making tea the traditional way.

Choosing the Perfect Gongfu Tea Set

When selecting a Gongfu tea set, consider the types of teas you prefer. A Yixing teapot is ideal for darker, fermented teas, while porcelain or ceramic is perfect for lighter, more delicate brews. Look for sets that include all the essential pieces for a complete experience, and choose one that resonates with your aesthetic preferences, as the visual appeal is also an integral part of the Gongfu tea ceremony.

A Chinese Gongfu tea set is more than just a collection of tea ware—it's an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the centuries-old tradition of tea craftsmanship.