How to Brew Blooming Teas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Blooming teas are a stunning and flavourful way to enjoy tea. These hand-tied bundles of dried tea leaves and edible flowers are designed to unfurl in hot water, creating a beautiful display while infusing the water with delicate flavours. Brewing blooming teas is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you brew the perfect cup of blooming tea in Singapore.

Step 1: Gather Your Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have the following items: Blooming teas: Choose a blooming tea of your preference. These are often available in various blends, including green tea, white tea, or black tea, with flowers like jasmine, marigold, or hibiscus. Glass teapot or heat-resistant glass container: A transparent teapot is ideal for blooming tea, as it allows you to watch the tea ball unfurl and bloom. If you don't have a glass teapot, any heat-resistant, clear glass container will do. Boiling water: Freshly boiled water is essential to properly steep the tea and allow the bloom to open. Optional: Tea cups: If you’re sharing the experience, prepare a few tea cups for serving.

Step 2: Boil Fresh Water

Start by boiling fresh water. Blooming teas are typically made with either green or white tea leaves, which are best brewed at slightly lower temperatures than black tea. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, let it cool for about 2-3 minutes until it reaches around 85-90°C (185-194°F). This temperature is perfect for allowing the tea leaves to release their flavour without becoming bitter.

Step 3: Add the Blooming Teas to the Teapot

Place the blooming teas into the glass teapot or container. Be sure to handle the tea ball gently to avoid damaging its delicate structure.

Step 4: Pour Hot Water Over the Tea Ball

Carefully pour the hot water over the tea ball, ensuring that it is fully submerged. The tea ball will initially float but will gradually begin to sink as it absorbs water and starts to unfurl.

Step 5: Watch the Tea Bloom

Over the next 3-5 minutes, watch as the tea ball slowly unfurls and the flowers inside it begin to bloom. The visual transformation is mesmerising, making this a perfect tea to enjoy with guests or during a moment of relaxation. The blooming process usually takes around 5 minutes, but you can let it steep longer if you prefer a stronger flavour. Keep in mind that over-steeping can sometimes lead to bitterness, especially with green or white tea.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the tea has fully bloomed and reached your desired strength, it's time to serve. You can pour the tea directly from the teapot into your cups. If you’re using a large glass container, you may need to carefully decant the tea into cups using a ladle or pour it into a smaller teapot for serving. The same tea ball can often be re-steeped multiple times. Simply add more hot water and let the tea steep again for a slightly longer period.

Step 7: Store Leftover Tea Properly

If you don’t finish all the tea in one sitting, you can store the leftover tea in the refrigerator for later enjoyment. Blooming tea can also be enjoyed cold, so consider chilling the brewed tea for a refreshing iced version.

Tips for the Best Blooming Tea Experience

Choose quality tea balls: Not all blooming tea sets in Singapore are created equal. Higher-quality tea balls often have more intricate designs and better flavour. Look for reputable brands or specialty tea shops that offer artisanal blooming teas. Use a glass teapot: The visual aspect of blooming tea is one of its main attractions. A clear glass teapot will enhance the experience by allowing you to watch the tea bloom in all its glory. Experiment with flavours: Blooming tea comes in a variety of flavours and flower combinations. Don’t hesitate to try different types to discover your favourite.

Look No Further Than Kindred Teas

Discover the magic of brewing with Kindred tea, where each cup is an enchanting blend of artistry and flavour. By following our simple steps, you can create a mesmerising tea experience that not only delights the palate but also elevates your tea rituals with a touch of elegance. Perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a peaceful moment alone , our blooming tea gift sets are designed to impress. Elevate your tea experience—shop our exquisite collection at Kindred Teas today and bring home the beauty of blooming tea.