ah2323 > wrote:
>Most of you are probably familiar with the gunpowder green tea sold in
>most Asian markets. Until recently, I didn't think much of it, and I
>assumed its usual dirt cheap price tag was an example of getting what
>one pays for. But several weeks ago, I gave it another try when nothing
>else was available, and I have to change my opinion. It's a reasonably
>pleasant brew *if* you pay attention to steeping time, i.e. no more
>than one--possibly two--minutes. Also, I tend to like a rather strong
>infusion, usually using two teaspoons/bags where "normal" people use
>one. For gunpowder, one teaspoon is enough for pretty much anyone.
>Pretty much any deviation from this results in the bitter, tanniny brew
>that I--and others, I would imagine--associate with gunpowder. Thoughts?

This is all pretty true, but don't forget temperature issues. Steeping
gunpowder tea in boiling water will result in the most bitter and astringent
mess you ever put in your mouth, even with a short steep. But careful
control of temperature and steep time can make a very pleasant cup from
some of the cheapest green.
--scott
--
"C'est un Nagra. C'est suisse, et tres, tres precis."