Gyokuro (Shade-Grown Green Tea)

Rich and Umami. Gyokuro is Japan's most premium green tea, grown under shade for 20 days before harvest. This process boosts the tea's amino acid content, giving it an intense umami sweetness and deep emerald color unlike any other tea.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons gyokuro tea leaves
• 3/4 cup water (50 to 60°C / 120 to 140°F)

Instructions

1. Heat water to just 50 to 60°C (120 to 140°F), much cooler than other teas.
2. Place gyokuro leaves in a small teapot.
3. Pour the warm water gently over the leaves.
4. Steep for 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Pour slowly into small cups, savoring each sip.

Tips

• Use less water and a longer steep for maximum umami richness.
• The spent leaves can be eaten with a drop of soy sauce and ponzu as a delicacy called "chagarashi."

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