Guide to Green Tea Leaves!

What is Green Tea?

Green tea is a famous beverage made from the green tea leaves of the plant Camellia Sinensis. Unlike black tea, it’s less processed, which ensures more natural nutrients. It has a fresh, light taste that many people enjoy, both hot and cold.

In ancient China, green tea leaves were used in traditional medicine. Green tea's Chinese origins date back thousands of years and people drank it to improve focus and boost energy.

There are many different varieties of green tea, some with added flavors like jasmine or mint. Due to its soothing properties, green tea is also used in skincare products. Its natural caffeine content provides mild energy without boosting the jittery effect of coffee.

The Origin of Green Tea

The use of green tea in China has a long history. It originated in China over 4,000 years ago and has been a key part of Chinese culture. Historians say Emperor Shen Nong discovered it around 2737 BC when green tea leaves accidentally blew into his pot of boiling water.

Over time, the Chinese started using green tea due to its health benefits and refreshing taste. Soon, it started being used in neighboring countries such as Korea and Japan. It also became an important part of those countries' traditions. 

In the 16th century, traders brought it to Europe. Nowadays, green tea is enjoyed worldwide not only for its taste but also for its old history and rich culture, making it one of the most popular beverages globally.

How is Green Tea Made?

Green tea is made from the young, fresh leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. A careful process must be followed to ensure high-quality tea.

Step1: Plucking
First, we pick the young tea leaves that retain more natural flavors. 

Step2: Fixation
Next, we lightly steam them to prevent further oxidation. This step is crucial to preserving their fresh color and flavor. 

Step3: Rolling
The leaves are then rolled to release natural flavors and dried naturally, which can effectively promote the flavors to release during brewing, elevating the tea body.

Step4: Drying
Drying stops fermentation and other biochemical reactions, ensuring the tea’s quality is optimized. There are three main drying methods, which are stir drying, hot air drying, and sun drying.

Throughout the process, leaves are handled gently to keep their flavor and nutrients intact. So, in the end, we are left with a refreshing, natural tea that’s rich in antioxidants and ready to be enjoyed by tea lovers.

Tasting Notes for Green Tea

Green tea offers a fresh, grassy flavor with hints of sweetness. It often tastes light and smooth, sometimes with a touch of bitterness. Some common words that describe its flavor are:

• Grassy
   
• Vegetal
   
• Nutty
   
• Sweet 
   
• Umami
   
• Floral

Green tea has a lighter and less bitter taste than black tea. It’s also less strong and a bit more delicate compared to herbal teas. 

Different Types of Green Tea

Green tea is further categorized into Chinese Green Tea and Japanese Green Tea.

Chinese Green Tea 

Chinese Green Tea is a famous category of green tea known for its delicate flavor. It is made from fresh, young tea leaves that are quickly steamed to preserve their fresh taste and natural color.

This green tea has a mild, grassy taste and is rich in antioxidants. Its common varieties are Bilouchun and Longjing, which offer unique qualities and flavors

Japanese Green Tea

Japanese green tea is renowned for its diversity in flavor, aroma, and appearance, offering a unique spectrum of experiences depending on the variety. 

Each type of Japanese green tea carries its own distinct personality, with a flavor profile influenced by its cultivation, processing, and preparation methods. From the rich umami of Gyokuro and matcha to the comforting warmth of Hojicha and Genmaicha, Japanese green teas offer a diverse and deeply satisfying range of tastes and experiences.

Our Premium Green Tea

Mua Yik’s Premium Green Tea Is infused with unique flavors of fresh and seaweed herbs, offering a fresh aroma and taste. You’ll enjoy a medium caffeine to boost your energy, without the jitters.

Our classic and Jasmine Green Teas, with their sweet aroma and grace, give you a delightful experience. Browse here and choose your best brew at Mua Yik Tea.

What are The Benefits of Green Tea?

Hand-picked and organically processed fresh green tea leaves are rich in antioxidants and natural nutrients, known for their quality and flavor. Green tea is celebrated worldwide for its refreshing taste, rich history and versatility. It is known to enhance focus and provide a calming effect, making it an excellent choice for those looking to relax or improve concentration.

How Much Green Tea Is Good for You?

Each cup of green tea contains 20-45 mg of caffeine. Experts say we should keep our daily caffeine intake to less than 100 mg, so 3 to 4 cups of green tea per day are fine. However, many people drink more than this as green tea has less of a jittery effect than coffee. 

How to Brew Green Tea Perfectly?

Green tea leaves can be infused with various herbs for a fresh aroma. Its taste is usually excellent. However, to achieve a perfect taste and maximize its benefits, you can follow the tips below to brew it.

Things You Need

1. Green tea leave or green tea bags
    
2. Kettle/Pot
    
3. Tea Cup
    
4. Filtered Water
    

Steeping Steps

Step 1: Heat the water

Step 2: Measure green tea
Golden ratio: For one cup of tea, use 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of green tea leaves or one tea bag. Use approximately 250ml of water for a 3g tea bag.
 

Step 3: Pour green tea leaves/bag
Gently put measured green tea leaves or green tea bags into the teapot.
 

Step 4: Pour water 
Now, put hot water into your teapot.

Step 5: Steep the tea

Step 6: Pour the tea into a cup
Now green tea is ready, pour it into your teacup and enjoy it.

Enhancing the Flavor

You can use several ingredients to customize your green tea flavor. Try the ingredients below and enjoy a perfect green tea.

• Citrus: For a fresh, tangy twist, you can add lemon or lime
   
• Dairy: Dairy like milk or almond milk can add a smooth and creamy texture.
   
• Honey: You can add a spoonful of honey for a touch of natural sweetness.
   
• Mint: Mixing fresh mint leaves can give your tea a cool and refreshing taste.
   
• Ginger: For a spicy kick, grate a small piece of ginger and steep it with your green tea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To enjoy a perfect cup of Green tea, avoid the common mistakes:

• Avoid boiling water: Green tea needs cooler water, about 175°F to 185°F.
   
• Do not use too much tea: One bag or 1.5 mg of green tea leaves is enough for a cup.
   
• Use fresh leaves: For a better taste, use fresh leaves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Green tea good for you?

Green tea has many health-promoting properties, making it suitable for everyone. However, if you are sensitive to caffeine, avoid drinking too many cups of green tea.

What is the best time for me to drink green tea?

You can usually take green tea anytime you feel tired. However, for best results, it is best to drink it in the morning or early afternoon, 1 to 2 hours after your meals.

What is the best flavor of green tea?

You have several options for green tea flavor. But green tea with jasmine, which adds floral notes and lemon for a tangy taste, is popular and excellent.