The Art of the Infusion
Brewing tea is as much about chemistry as it is about tradition. The core of a great cup lies in the **Leaf-to-Water Ratio**. While many are accustomed to the standard "one bag per mug," loose-leaf tea offers a much wider spectrum of flavor that can only be unlocked with precise measurement.
Western vs. Gongfu Brewing
In **Western brewing**, we use a low leaf-to-water ratio (around 1:60). The leaves sit in a large volume of water for a longer period (3–5 minutes). This produces a large, consistent cup but loses the subtle aromatics of the leaf.
In contrast, **Gongfu Cha** (meaning 'skill tea') uses a high leaf-to-water ratio (around 1:15). You brew extremely small quantities—often just 100ml—for very short bursts (15–30 seconds) across multiple infusions. This reveals how the flavor of the tea evolves as the leaves expand.
Water Temperature: The Invisible Filter
Using boiling water on delicate Green or White tea can burn the leaves, releasing unwanted bitter tannins almost instantly. Conversely, using 80°C water on a fermented Black or Puerh tea might fail to extract the deep wood and leather notes. Every gram of leaf has a perfect temperature window.
Brewing Metrics Comparison Table
| Tea Type | Grams per 250ml | Steep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Dragonwell (Green) | 4.2g | 2-3 mins |
| Assam (Black) | 5.0g | 3-5 mins |
| Darjeeling (Black/Oolong) | 4.5g | 3 mins |
| Puerh (Gongfu Style) | 16.0g | 15-30 secs |
Related Kitchen Tools
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard ratio for brewing tea?
For standard Western brewing, a ratio of 1:50 to 1:60 is common (e.g., 2 grams of tea for every 100-120ml of water).
What is Gongfu brewing?
Gongfu brewing is a traditional Chinese method using a much higher leaf-to-water ratio (often 1:15 to 1:20) and very short, multiple infusions.
How much tea do I need for a 250ml mug?
For a standard cup, around 4-5 grams of loose-leaf tea is the balanced recommendation.