ABOUT THE TEA:
Silky smooth and with a hint of flowery spiciness; oolong is known for getting better with each cup, making it a perfect choice for those long, lazy, hazy days of tea drinking.

One of the most famous of all Oolong Teas, it has a delightfully fresh fruity flavour. Partial oxidation, means that Iron Buddha combines the benefits of both green and black teas.

Perfect to drink with a plate of savoury dumplings or some fried rice and chicken.

INTERESTING FACTS REGARDING TEA:
This is regarded as ‘top shelf” oolong tea as it originates from the Fujian Provence. Often referred to as “monkey picked tea”, this comes from a legend that it was grown on such steep mountain slopes that it needed monkeys to help harvest it.

Iron Buddha is made from a very unique strain of the Camellia Sinensis plant. The key to making this tea really well is to keep everything really hot. Make the brew with fresh boiled water, and warm the tea ware before use.

The name “oolong” comes from the Chinese for “black dragon.”

Oolong is more oxidized than green tea, but less than black tea. Consequently, its flavour is somewhere between the two; it isn’t as sweet as black tea, but it is more slightly more floral and less grassy than green tea.

The health benefits of oolong are known to include both antibacterial and antiviral properties, as well as boosting metabolism and the immune system. It aids in the relief of allergies, diabetes, eczema, and obesity, and may help prevent cancer.

If you find the taste of oolong too strong, use a smaller measure of tea leaves or steep for less time, or sweeten with honey. As you grow accustomed to the flavour, you can brew stronger tea and eliminate these additions.

Even after all those years, oolong tea is enjoyed by people the world over, especially in restaurants thanks to its ability to retain, and even improve its taste after 4 or 5 infusions.

If you stick to infusing oolong in water that is 80-100 degrees Celsius, then you should get a clear golden green colour, which is exactly what you’re looking for.

HOW TO BREW:
Add 360ml of boiling water to 1-2 teaspoons of tea and brew for 3-5 minutes. Serve as is. Refill with boiling water up to 3 times. Store in a cool dry place.
Serve in our Zi Sha Bamboo Story Cup.

FOOD PAIRING:
Try this dish with either of the following dishes:

• Shark Fin Dumplings
• Crystal Prawn Dumplings