Enjoying a cup of tea while appreciating the natural aroma and taste, alongside a bonsai tree. Setting a bonsai, which encapsulates a small piece of nature in a single pot, on your table marks the beginning of an elegant tea time. In this article, we introduce a recipe for "028 Ryofu," brewed using cooled water in four small tea vessels, accompanied by the "Dwarf Crape Myrtle" bonsai recommended by "Sekibokka" for its ethnic atmosphere.
The crisp and refreshing taste of "028 Ryofu" is named after the image of new buds swaying in a "cool breeze" (ryofu). While the first sip is light, as you continue drinking, you'll notice a pleasant aroma reminiscent of boiled chestnuts. This tea is perfect for enjoying with family and friends during lively gatherings.
"028 Ryofu" Recipe: Perfect for an Elegant Tea Time
After drinking "028 Ryofu," grown in Okayama, known as the "Land of Sunshine," you'll experience a gentle sweetness and lingering aftertaste. Its gentle and delicate flavor seems to slowly unravel your heart as you take time to enjoy the tea. Even when brewed at high temperatures, it doesn't become bitter, and it releases a refreshing, toasty aroma similar to Tie Guan Yin tea.
＜Ingredients＞
・4g of "028 Ryofu" tea leaves
・Boiling water
・4 small vessels
＜Brewing Method＞
[1] Pour boiling water from the clear teapot into the 4 vessels
Fill the clear teapot with boiling water to just below the ridge. After a brief pause, pour the water into the 4 vessels.
[2] Add tea leaves to the teapot and return the water
Place the tea strainer and tea leaves in the clear teapot, then return the slightly cooled hot water to the teapot.
[3] Wait for the tea leaves to unfurl
Observe the tea leaves as they expand. Wait about 30 seconds until they are about 40% unfurled.
[4] Pour into the vessels
Divide the tea evenly among the 4 vessels. To ensure uniform distribution, pour in the order 1-2-3-4-4-3-2-1. For the second infusion, after enjoying the first, pour hot water directly into the teapot without cooling it in the vessels. Be sure to savor the change in flavor due to the temperature difference.
Sipping from small vessels seems to make the gentle aroma of "028 Ryofu" feel even more special. After carefully cooling the water and meticulously brewing the tea, when you lift your face from the cup, you'll see the beautiful "Dwarf Crape Myrtle" bonsai. It might be worth immersing yourself in the happiness of experiencing such a moment.
Tea Used in This Recipe
This recipe was featured in "TOKYO TEA JOURNAL" VOL.17. You can view the special feature on the theme "Opening the Door to Nature" from VOL.17 here.
