Today we are going to show you how to brew tea in a Gaiwan with ‘Milky Oolong’…
A Gaiwan is essentially a three-part lidded vessel. The one which I am using today is a glazed (non-porous) porcelain Gaiwan with tasting cups. This is a brilliant option as you can make all different types of tea in it (the porcelain will not taint the taste of the tea).
We are also going to combine this brewing session with a ‘tea in mind’ tip. Today, it is all about breathing. Oolong teas relate to the metal element in ancient Chinese learning, which in turn, relates to your lung and large intestine. It is very important that we bring awareness to our breath and take full inhales and exhales through a method of ‘box breathing’. This allows us to rebalance and relax as we nourish our body with oxygen.
Our Five Step Guide to Brewing Tea in a Gaiwan
Step 1 : The Water
Take about 1 teaspoon of your tea and pop the tea leaves directly into the Gaiwan. This Gaiwan holds about 50mls of water so it is perfect for a single person.
Step 2 : ‘Wash the Leaves’
Step 3 : The First Infusion & Tea in Mind Exercise
Pour your water into the Gaiwan around the sides, the same as before. Now your first infusion can be left to brew for 30 seconds – 1 minute, which is largely down to personal preference.
Whilst your tea is brewing, why not try a box breathing exercise? This is where you imagine four sides of a box, which allows you to form a visual element to your breathing. Take a deep breath in for 5 seconds and hold this for 5 seconds. Then exhale this breath for 5 seconds and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat this whilst imagining you are navigating around 4 sides of a box. This provides slightly more focus and direction to hold each section of the breathing equally. Take this moment to fully relax.
The beauty of the Gaiwan is the aroma which can be experienced when you lift the lid after the infusion is complete. Definitely do not miss experiencing the scent from your tea – it is a delicious start.
Step 4 : The Serving
This is your first infusion ready for you to enjoy!
Step 5 : Reinfuse Oolongs & Relax
Then when you are ready, you can brew another infusion. With oolong, every time you infuse it, you can experience different tastes coming through the tea. I usually infuse mine up to 4 times!
Brewing with a Gaiwan really creates an experience alongside the method of drinking tea. It allows you the time to be fully present in the moment and experience the tea with all of your senses. I hope that you have found this useful and are excited to brew tea in a Gaiwan! If so, please do share your tea moments with us on instagram @eteaket. They make our day.
Happy Brewing!