"048 HOUSHUN," with its elegant umami and sweetness reminiscent of dashi, pairs perfectly with Japanese cuisine. This time, we've paired it with a white ae-mono (tofu-dressed salad) using seasonal nanohana (rapeseed flowers).
The gentle sweetness of the dressing that envelops the slight bitterness of the vegetables, combined with the rich umami of the tea, creates a pleasant lingering taste that gradually spreads in your mouth.
The pottery that conveys a sense of grace with a touch of cuteness and gentleness is made by Hanako Nakazato in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. It beautifully showcases the color of the tea and the green of the nanohana.
"048 HOUSHUN" and Japanese Small Dishes
To bring out the umami and sweetness, it's recommended to brew at a slightly lower temperature. Warming the vessel helps to enhance the aroma. Enjoy the beautiful, clear golden color of the tea as well.
"048 HOUSHUN" Kyoto Prefecture "Wazuka" Farm: Katsuyuki Nishiyama
 |
"HOUSHUN is a recommended variety in Kyoto Prefecture, and it's a new variety with a short history since its registration. Its characteristic is its rich and delicious taste. Tea buyers often praise this variety." |
What You'll Need
Brewing Method
1/ Brew the first infusion
Pour 85ml of 70°C water over the tea leaves in the teapot and steep for 1 minute. During the steeping time, pour hot water into the cup to warm it, then discard the water before pouring in the tea.
2/ Brew the second infusion
After finishing the first infusion, pour 85ml of 80°C water into the teapot, steep for 15 seconds, then pour into the cup to complete!
TEA TALK
"048 HOUSHUN," born in Wazuka, a tea-producing area of Kyoto, is a tea with little bitterness and pronounced umami and sweetness. Through pairing, you can enjoy how the umami becomes more pronounced or the sweetness feels stronger. It also pairs well with sweets like cookies and dried fruits, so please give it a try.
