It would be incorrect to assume that just because tea is the second-most-consumed drink in the world (only water is more popular), everyone will love its earthy and herbal flavor. (Thanks to Ted Lasso.
Advertisement Banner
If you are having a problem with the bitterness of green tea, then it is probably not the tea. The bitter notes you tasted in your tea mug may have been caused by the brewing method.
David Segal, co-founder of Firebelly Tea and expert in tea, says that scalding water or boiling water can cause bitter notes. Segal says that boiling water can damage delicate tea leaves. Green tea, on the other hand, is best brewed in water between 170 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit, not at 212 deg F. There’s a way to get the exact temperature without a thermometer. He suggests waiting until the teapot or kettle is completely steamed out before adding tea.
Why does boiling water extract bitter notes from the green tea leaves when used? Segal explains the delicate leaves are high in tannins, a type of polyphenol. If the water is heated too much, the tannins will be extracted from the leaf and the result is a bitter flavor.
Tea leaves steeped for too long can have the same effect. Segal advises that you should not steep Japanese green tea or green tea from other countries for more than three minutes. You will also get a bitter tea. Segal says that a good cup of tea can taste oceanic, grassy or buttery. It should also be fresh and crisp.
Segal says that you should never microwave tea leaves, even if you are heating water in a microwave instead of a kettle. Segal says that you should boil the water first in the microwave, then let it cool and pour it over the leaves.
By making these simple changes, you can make your green tea more rich and balanced rather than bitter.
Check out this video to learn more about the health benefits and differences between matcha and green tea, according to a dietitian:
You can now enjoy a delicious cup of green tea. Check out the list below to find some of the best teas. Don’t forget to serve your cup with something tasty. Steve Schwartz, founder of Art of Tea, says that “fresh botanicals like lavender or lemon verbena infused in shortbread cookie pairs perfectly with a lighter green tea.” This gluten-free recipe for shortbread cookies is perfect to enhance your afternoon tea.
Try these delicious green teas
Firebelly tea makes good Sencha — $28.00
Segal loves this green for its scent! Firebelly Tea’s Makes Good Sencha has a delicate, buttery sencha flavor and a refreshing Japanese gyokuro.
Shop Now
Firebelly All Matcha — $35.00
Matcha is an earthy green tea that’s often made from powder. This Ceremonial grade matcha (the best quality) is earthy, creamy green with umami and sweet notes. You can either brew it alone or add to smoothies and baked goods.
Shop Now
Art of Tea Happy tea — $24.00
This blend of hibiscus rosehips, apple, green rooibos, jasmine, and hibiscus green is sure to lift your spirits.
Shop Now
Art of Tea Ayurvedic Cleanse Tea – $23.00
You can make this tea blend with green tea, pomegranate and cinnamon. Add a little ACV to sparkling water and you have a delicious tea spritzer.
Shop Now
California Tea House Gunpowder — $10.00
This tea is packed with antioxidants and has a vibrant herbal taste.
Shop Now
Oh hello! You seem to be someone who enjoys free workouts, discounts on cutting-edge brands of wellness, and Well+Good exclusive content. Join Well+ to unlock instant rewards.
