In America, many people enjoy the tea that is provided in Chinese restaurants, in the small teapots and even tinier little cups. What most do not realize is that this "Chinese tea," called Oolong tea, is produced organically and according to ancient Chinese culture. This traditional drink in China is generally brewed to a full strength that is bitter but leaves a sweet aftertaste. It has a distinctive taste, unlike black teas which have sweet aromas, or green teas with grassy notes.
The leaves are produced in a couple of different ways; they are either rolled into long curly leaves, or pressed into a round form. The long and curly leaves are the ancient method. The translation of the names of the different types of Oolong teas means "black dragon tea."
This type of tea is manually produced in the time-honored traditions of China. The leaves are picked early in the morning, and only on a clear day. They are picked in exacting units: one bud and three leaves which must get immediate exposure to the sun. Next they are dried in barns to help promote fermentation, and only expert 'tea masters' know when the tea is exactly right and fermentation should be stopped. Because it is partially fermented, it is also known as semi-fermented tea.
The fermentation is typically stopped when the leaves are 30% red and 70% green. Then, the tea leaves are repeatedly rubbed to generate the flavor, texture, and aroma that is so well-loved in China, Japan, and the United States. Next, the leaves are charcoal dried, and at the final stage of production, a tea master is utilized to grade the quality by characteristics and flavor.
When Rachel Ray recently mentioned studies on Oolong tea that show it helps in reducing weight, it started a new diet frenzy, with some unrealistic claims. The tea does give you some benefits like increased energy and lots of antioxidants and drinking some can often stave off cravings for sweets and energy slumps. They taste wonderful, so why not add some to your diet?
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