Eleanor Nakama-Mitsunaga
|
Whether enjoyed as a quick pot of Lipton or a leisurely cup of Lapsang Souchong, black tea is the most popular tea in the Western world. The health benefits of drinking tea vs. coffee have also kept popularity of the drink consistently high over the years.
The basics: Black tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, a relative of the camellia flower that is native to Asia and was first cultivated by the Chinese more than 1,000 years ago. In fact, all teas -- green, oolong and black -- derive from the same plant. It is in the processing of the leaves that the various forms are derived.
Black tea is the type that is most processed. The tea leaves first go through a withering process to remove moisture. Then they are rolled and allowed to ferment, then dried in controlled ovens.
Black tea is generally graded by size and whether the leaves are whole or broken -- not by quality. Broken grades are ideal for quick brewing, as in tea bags.
Some of the finer black teas include Assam, Ceylon, Darjeeling, Keemun and Lapsang Souchong -- all grown in different regions of Asia.
Selecting: Black tea is available as loose leaves or in bags. Loose leaves require a teapot, strainer or wire ball for steeping, while tea bags are a convenient alternative. Fine teas are more likely to come as loose leaves, however, because the tea in tea bags tends to age faster.
Remember, the most expensive teas are not necessarily the best tasting. Taste is very relative, thus, try a number a varieties to find the right one for you.
Storing: All teas should be used within six months to a year of purchase. Store in an airtight container that doesn't allow much light to penetrate. Avoid glass and clear plastic.
Tea needs to be stored in a cool, dry, dark area. It may be kept in the refrigerator for longer storage, but protect it from moisture, which may deteriorate quality.
Use: Black tea is the most common tea served hot or iced. Preparing it is a simple matter of steeping the leaves or tea bags in hot water. With iced tea, brew a stronger batch of tea and add cold water and ice after the tea is steeped. Black tea can also be used in marinades, sauces and dressings, or in preparing traditional Chinese tea-smoked poultry.
Where to buy: Purchase black tea at any supermarket or specialty food store. For something a bit fancier, visit a specialty shop such as L'Ecipier in Ala Moana Center. Prices vary greatly depending on quality, quantity and variety.
Eleanor Nakama-Mitsunaga is
a free-lance food writer. Contact her
online through features@starbulletin.com
