Steeping oolong tea is an art, one that offers endless opportunities to explore its rich, complex flavors. Whether using the Western-style approach or the traditional Asian-style method, each brings out unique aspects of oolong tea’s character. Let me walk you through the steps to brew this remarkable tea perfectly, no matter which method you choose.
Western-Style Steeping: A Balanced Approach
Western-style steeping is a great way to brew oolong in a medium to large teapot (24–32 ounces). This method uses a lower tea-to-water ratio and longer steep times, ideal for relaxed tea sessions.
Step 1: Measure Your Teapot
To determine the correct amount of tea, measure the capacity of your teapot. Divide its functional volume by 6, as most tea measurements are based on 6 ounces of water. For example, a 24-ounce teapot would require four measures of tea for a well-balanced pot.
- Semiball-rolled oolongs: Use 2 teaspoons of tea per 6 ounces of water.
- Strip-style oolongs: Use 1.25–2 tablespoons of tea per 6 ounces.
- Leaf-style oolongs: Use 1–2 tablespoons of tea per 6 ounces.
Step 2: Heat the Water
Water temperature is crucial. Oolong teas thrive at 180°F–200°F. To achieve this, watch for “string of pearls” bubbles threading along the surface or boil the water and let it rest for two minutes. Remember: the darker the leaf, the hotter the water.
Step 3: Rinse the Tea
Before brewing, rinse the tea by pouring just enough hot water to cover the leaves, then discard this liquid. This helps the leaves open and prepares them for steeping.
Step 4: Steep and Enjoy
Steep the tea for 3–5 minutes, adjusting the time based on the leaf style:
- Semiball-rolled teas need longer steep times for their tightly rolled leaves to unfurl.
- Flat or open-leaf oolongs release their flavors faster and require shorter steeping times.
While Western-style oolong may only yield one or two infusions, these cups are rich and satisfying, perfect for slow enjoyment.
Asian-Style Steeping: Unlocking Depth and Complexity
Asian-style steeping in a small teapot (under 10 ounces) or gaiwan is the traditional method for oolong tea. This technique uses a higher tea-to-water ratio and multiple short infusions, revealing the tea’s evolving flavors with each steep.
Step 1: Choose Your Vessel
For this method, I prefer a porcelain gaiwan or a Yixing clay teapot. If using an unglazed teapot, dedicate one for light oolongs and another for dark oolongs to preserve the tea’s flavor integrity.
Step 2: Measure the Tea
Use 5–6 grams of tea per 6 ounces of water. If you’re steeping tightly rolled semiball-rolled oolongs, allow space for the leaves to expand as they rehydrate.
- Fill your gaiwan or teapot half to two-thirds full of leaves, depending on the style.
Step 3: Heat the Water
As with Western-style steeping, use 180°F–200°F water. Remember the rule: the darker the leaf, the hotter the water.
Step 4: Rinse the Tea
Rinsing is essential for oolongs steeped Asian-style. Pour hot water over the leaves, cover briefly, and immediately pour it off. This step awakens the leaves and prepares them for the first infusion.
Step 5: Short Steep Times, Multiple Infusions
The beauty of Asian-style steeping lies in its brevity and repetition. Begin with 30 seconds to 1 minute for the first steep, increasing by 10–15 seconds with each subsequent infusion. Oolongs prepared this way can be re-steeped 6–8 times, offering a journey through its changing flavors and aromas.
Why Rinse Oolong Tea?
The rinse step, common in oolong preparation, serves a dual purpose:
- It cleanses the leaves of any dust or impurities.
- It allows the leaves to open, ensuring an even release of flavor in subsequent steeps.
The rinse is not meant to be consumed but instead primes the tea for the “true” first steep.
Discovering the Magic of Oolong
Both Western-style and Asian-style steeping have their charms. I use Western-style when I want a single, hearty pot of tea and Asian-style when I’m in the mood to savor oolong’s complex, evolving nature over multiple infusions.
Whether you prefer semiball-rolled, strip-style, or leaf-style oolongs, the joy of brewing lies in experimenting with steeping times, temperatures, and quantities. With every cup, you’ll uncover new layers of flavor and deepen your appreciation for this versatile and captivating tea.
