Green Tea Complete Guide

What is Green Tea?

Green tea is made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis that have undergone minimal oxidation during processing. After harvesting, the leaves are quickly heated (by pan firing or steaming) to stop the oxidation process, preserving their green color and fresh, grassy flavor.

This minimal processing means green tea retains more of its natural compounds, including high levels of catechins (especially EGCG), amino acids like L-theanine, and vitamins. These compounds are responsible for green tea's health benefits and unique flavor profile.

Types of Green Tea

Chinese Green Teas

Longjing (Dragon Well)

China's most famous green tea, known for its flat, sword-shaped leaves and sweet, nutty flavor. Produced in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Best brewed at 175-185°F for 2-3 minutes.

Bi Luo Chun (Green Snail Spring)

Named for its tightly rolled, snail-like leaves. Grown in Jiangsu Province, this tea has a fruity, floral aroma and delicate, sweet taste. Brew at 175-185°F for 2 minutes.

Gunpowder

Named for its tightly rolled, pellet-like leaves that resemble gunpowder. Has a bold, slightly smoky flavor. Excellent for Moroccan mint tea. Brew at 180-190°F for 3 minutes.

Japanese Green Teas

Sencha

The most popular Japanese green tea, accounting for about 80% of tea production in Japan. Has a fresh, grassy flavor with a slight sweetness. The leaves are steamed after harvesting. Brew at 170-180°F for 1-2 minutes.

Matcha

A powdered green tea made from shade-grown tea leaves. The entire leaf is consumed, providing maximum antioxidants and caffeine. Used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. Whisk 1-2 teaspoons in 2-3 oz of 175°F water.

Gyokuro

Premium shade-grown green tea with a rich, umami flavor. The tea plants are shaded for 3 weeks before harvest, increasing chlorophyll and L-theanine content. Brew at 140-160°F for 2-3 minutes with lower temperature water.

Genmaicha

A blend of sencha and roasted brown rice, creating a nutty, toasted flavor. The rice adds a savory note and reduces caffeine content. Brew at 175-185°F for 2-3 minutes.

Other Notable Green Teas

Jasmine Green Tea

Green tea scented with jasmine flowers, creating a fragrant, floral cup. Popular in Chinese tea culture. Brew at 175-185°F for 2-3 minutes.

Health Benefits of Green Tea

Rich in Antioxidants

Green tea contains high levels of catechins, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), one of the most powerful antioxidants found in food. These compounds help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.

Brain Health

The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in green tea improves brain function, enhances focus, and provides calm alertness without the jitters associated with coffee.

Heart Health

Regular consumption of green tea has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improved cholesterol levels.

Weight Management

Green tea may boost metabolism and increase fat oxidation, potentially supporting weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

Cancer Prevention

Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in green tea may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, though more research is needed.

How to Brew Green Tea

Water Temperature

Green tea is delicate and requires cooler water than black tea to avoid bitterness. Ideal temperature is 170-185°F (77-85°C). Use slightly cooler water (140-160°F) for premium teas like gyokuro.

Steeping Time

Steep green tea for 2-3 minutes. Premium Japanese teas like gyokuro can be steeped slightly longer, while delicate Chinese teas may need only 1-2 minutes.

Amount of Tea

Use 1-2 teaspoons (2-3 grams) of loose leaf tea per 8 ounces of water. Adjust based on your taste preferences and the specific tea.

Brewing Steps

1. Heat water to the appropriate temperature (170-185°F for most green teas)
2. Preheat your teapot or cup by rinsing with hot water
3. Add green tea leaves to your infuser or teapot
4. Pour hot water over the leaves
5. Steep for 2-3 minutes (adjust based on tea type)
6. Remove leaves immediately to prevent over-steeping
7. Enjoy your perfectly brewed green tea!

Multiple Infusions

High-quality green tea leaves can often be steeped 2-3 times. Each subsequent infusion may require slightly longer steeping time or slightly hotter water. The flavor profile will change with each infusion, revealing different notes.

Tips for the Perfect Cup

• Don't use boiling water: Water that's too hot will make green tea bitter
• Don't over-steep: Longer steeping times extract more tannins, causing bitterness
• Use fresh water: Fresh, filtered water makes a big difference in flavor
• Store properly: Keep green tea in an airtight container away from light, moisture, and strong odors
• Consume fresh: Green tea is best consumed within 6-12 months of production

Choosing Quality Green Tea

What to Look For

• Fresh leaves: Should be vibrant green in color, not brown or dull
• Intact leaves: Whole leaves are generally better quality than broken leaves or dust
• Pleasant aroma: Should smell fresh and vegetal, not stale or musty
• Origin information: Quality teas often include information about origin and harvest date

Where to Buy

For the best quality, buy from reputable tea vendors who specialize in green tea. Look for vendors that:

• Source directly from tea gardens
• Provide information about origin and harvest dates
• Store tea properly to maintain freshness
• Offer samples or small quantities for trying new teas