Tea
Various kinds of teas
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Tea cultivation and consumption originated in China thousands of years ago, with legends tracing it back to Emperor Shennong around 2737 BCE. From China, tea spread throughout Asia, eventually reaching Europe and the rest of the world. Over centuries, different regions developed unique tea varieties, processing methods, and brewing rituals, leading to the diverse tea culture we know today.
Tea plays a significant cultural role in many societies, particularly in East Asia, where it's often associated with hospitality, ceremony, and meditation. The act of preparing and sharing tea can symbolize respect, friendship, and social connection.
Chinese Tea Ceremony (Gongfu Cha)
Gongfu Cha is a traditional Chinese tea ceremony emphasizing skill, precision, and appreciation of the tea's flavor. It involves specific teaware, water temperature, and brewing techniques to maximize the tea's potential.
Japanese Tea Ceremony (Chanoyu)
Chanoyu is a traditional Japanese tea ceremony rooted in Zen Buddhism. It emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. The preparation and serving of matcha (powdered green tea) are highly ritualized.
British Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea in Britain is a social occasion that typically involves sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, cakes, and of course, tea. It is a symbol of elegance and refinement.
Tea's flavor profiles are incredibly diverse, ranging from grassy and floral to earthy and smoky, depending on the tea type, processing method, and origin.
Green teas are typically grassy, vegetal, and sometimes slightly sweet. Black teas tend to be bolder, malty, and sometimes fruity. White teas are delicate and subtly sweet, with floral or honeyed notes. Oolong teas exhibit a wide spectrum of flavors, from light and floral to roasted and nutty. Pu-erh teas often have earthy and musty flavors, sometimes with sweet or woody undertones. Herbal teas, or tisanes, showcase a vast range of flavors based on the herbs, flowers, and fruits used, such as chamomile (floral), peppermint (minty), or hibiscus (tart).
Water Temperature
Different tea types require different water temperatures. Generally, white and green teas need lower temperatures (around 170-185°F) to avoid bitterness, while black and herbal teas can handle higher temperatures (around 200-212°F).
Steeping Time
Over-steeping tea can lead to a bitter and astringent flavor. Follow the recommended steeping time for each tea type. Green teas typically require shorter steeping times (1-3 minutes) than black teas (3-5 minutes).
Tea Storage
Store tea in an airtight container, away from light, moisture, and strong odors, to preserve its flavor and aroma. Tea can easily absorb surrounding smells.
Leaf to Water Ratio
A good guideline is one teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8 ounces of water, but adjust to taste. Experimenting with different ratios can help you find your preferred strength.
Explore additional Tea dishes and restaurants
Explore TeaDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Edmonton.
Explore EdmontonLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Canada.
Explore Canada