"037 Tsuyuhikari DAISEN" offers a refreshing taste in the first infusion and a robust, astringent umami in the second. It pairs well with the slight bitterness of cacao, making it perfect for creating a Japanese-style Valentine's Day experience when combined with fermented sweets made with sake lees.
Recipe: Enjoying "037 Tsuyuhikari DAISEN" with Fermented Sake Lees Chocolate Sweets
By intentionally brewing it stronger to create a slightly rough texture, we achieve a tea with umami that can stand up to the richness of chocolate.
What You'll Need
Brewing Method
[1] Brew the first infusion
Pour 100ml of 70°C water over the tea leaves in the teapot, steep for 1 minute and 20 seconds, then pour into a pitcher.
[2] Add the second infusion to complete
Pour 60ml of 80°C water into the teapot, steep for 20 seconds, then add to the pitcher to complete.
How to Make Sake Lees Chocolate
Roughly chop 60g of your preferred chocolate and melt it in the microwave for 40 seconds to 1 minute. Soften an equal amount of sake lees in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, mix with the chocolate, roll into small balls, dust with cocoa powder, and chill in the refrigerator.
TEA TALK
"Inoue Seikien" in Daisen Town, located in the northern part of Tottori Prefecture, cultivates tea leaves with thick leaf flesh and a rich flavor. The "037 Tsuyuhikari DAISEN" produced on this farm is characterized by a deep umami reminiscent of matcha. The first infusion has a clear golden color, while the second infusion turns a deep, eye-opening green.
The featured teaware is available for purchase on Senchado Tokyo Online!
(Right in the main image): Beautiful with its simple shape and smooth glaze. Toyomi Nakamura "Tea Pitcher - Cylindrical - White" Scheduled for sale in early February. ¥4,180
(Center in the main image): These tea cups, which our buyer fell in love with at first sight, are also perfect for Chinese tea. Toyomi Nakamura "Flower-shaped Tea Cup" Scheduled for sale in early February. ¥1,980
(Left in the main image): The color and silhouette reminiscent of the Yi Dynasty. The slight distortion unique to handmade work is endearing. Tsutomu Takeshita "Small Plate" Scheduled for sale in late February. ¥1,320