Gong Fu Tea Brewing Guide

Introduction

Gong Fu Cha, or the Gong Fu tea ceremony, is a traditional Chinese method of brewing tea that emphasizes the art and skill of tea-making. The term "Gong Fu" translates to "skill" or "effort," reflecting the meticulous and mindful approach to brewing tea. This method is known for bringing out the full flavor and aroma of the tea leaves, creating a rich and immersive tea-drinking experience.

What You'll Need

• Tea Leaves: High-quality loose leaf tea, such as oolong, pu-erh, or green tea.
• Teapot: A small clay or porcelain teapot, often called a Yixing teapot.
• Gaiwan: A lidded bowl used for brewing and drinking tea.
• Tea Cups: Small, handleless cups to appreciate the tea's aroma and flavor.
• Tea Tray: A tray with a drainage system to catch any spilled water or tea.
• Tea Tools: A tea scoop, tea tongs, and a tea strainer.
• Kettle: A kettle to heat water to the appropriate temperature.

Steps to Brew Gong Fu Tea

1. Prepare the Teaware: Rinse the teapot, gaiwan, and tea cups with hot water to warm them up. This helps maintain the temperature during brewing.
2. Measure the Tea Leaves: Use a tea scoop to measure the appropriate amount of tea leaves. Generally, use about 5-7 grams of tea leaves for a 150ml teapot or gaiwan.
3. Rinse the Tea Leaves: Place the tea leaves in the teapot or gaiwan and pour hot water over them. Quickly pour out the water to rinse the leaves and awaken their aroma.
4. First Infusion: Pour hot water (around 85-95°C or 185-203°F, depending on the tea type) over the tea leaves. Cover the teapot or gaiwan and let the tea steep for about 20-30 seconds.
5. Pour the Tea: Pour the tea into the tea cups, either directly from the teapot or through a tea strainer. Enjoy the first infusion, appreciating the aroma and flavor.
6. Subsequent Infusions: Repeat the process for multiple infusions, gradually increasing the steeping time by 5-10 seconds with each infusion. High-quality tea leaves can be steeped multiple times, each infusion revealing new flavors and aromas.
7. Appreciate the Tea: Take your time to savor each cup of tea, noting the changes in flavor and aroma with each infusion. The Gong Fu method encourages mindfulness and appreciation of the tea-drinking experience.

Tips for Gong Fu Brewing

• Water Quality: Use filtered or spring water for the best taste.
• Temperature Control: Adjust the water temperature based on the type of tea. Green teas require lower temperatures, while oolong and pu-erh teas can handle higher temperatures.
• Experiment: Feel free to experiment with the amount of tea leaves, water temperature, and steeping time to find your perfect brew.