Grandpa Style and Bowl Brewing – The Easiest Way to Make Tea

Tea brewing is an art that has been perfected over centuries, with numerous methods developed to extract the best flavors from tea leaves. While traditional methods like Gong Fu Cha require precision and time, there are simpler and equally enjoyable ways to brew tea. Two such methods are Grandpa Style and Bowl Brewing. These methods are not only easy but also bring a sense of casual enjoyment to the tea-drinking experience. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of Grandpa Style and Bowl Brewing, exploring their origins, benefits, and how you can master these techniques at home. 

 

 

What is Grandpa Style Tea?

Grandpa Style tea brewing is a casual and straightforward method that involves brewing tea directly in a big cup without any strainers, teapots, or specific measurements. This method is particularly popular in China, where tea lovers often prefer a more relaxed approach to tea drinking.

The Origins of Grandpa Style

The term "Grandpa Style" was coined by a tea blogger named MarshalN, who observed his grandfather drinking tea this way. It reflects a traditional and no-fuss approach to tea brewing that is common among older generations in China. Grandpa Style brewing lets you relax, toss in some leaves, and enjoy a personal cup of tea, no fuss required.

How to Brew Grandpa Style Tea

Brewing tea Grandpa Style is incredibly simple and requires just three basic elements: tea leaves, hot water, and a large cup. Some tips to brew tea Grandpa Style:

1. Choose Your Tea: While any tea can be brewed this way, white, yellow, and green teas are particularly well-suited due to their lower loose leaf ratio requirements.
2. Add Tea Leaves: Add a small amount of loose tea leaves to your cup. There is no need to measure precisely; you will learn the right amount through experience.
3. Pour Hot Water: teep your tea by pouring hot water over the leaves. Typically, boiling water is used, but for delicate teas, you might want to lower the temperature slightly.
4. Wait and Sip: Allow the tea to steep for 5-15 minutes. You can start drinking without discarding the leaves. 
5. Refill as Needed: When about a third of the cup is left, add more hot water. Continue refilling until the flavor becomes too weak, at which point you can add a small amount of new tea leaves.

Tips:

• Some tea leaves may float to the top, which is normal. Adjust to drinking the tea with the leaves in the cup.
• This method is perfect for when you don't have time for a full tea ceremony or when you're on the go.

 

 

What is Bowl Brewing?

Bowl Brewing, similar to Grandpa Style, is another simple and personal way to brew tea. Instead of using a tall glass or mug, this method involves brewing tea in a wide bowl. It's a great way to get up close and personal with the tea leaves and enjoy a meditative tea experience.

The Origins of Bowl Brewing

Bowl Brewing is a traditional method often seen in Chinese and Japanese tea cultures. This method allows you to appreciate the beauty of the leaves as they unfurl, releasing their fragrant aroma and elevating the tea experience. This method is particularly popular for teas with long, spindly leaves, such as Dancong oolong.

How to Brew Tea Using Bowl Brewing

Bowl Brewing is straightforward and requires minimal equipment. Steps to brew tea using this method:

1. Choose Your Tea: Select teas with larger, unbroken leaves, such as green tea, white tea, or oolong. Teas with broken leaves, like sencha or CTC black tea, are not ideal for this method.
2. Select a Bowl: Use a wide, shallow bowl. A rice pattern bowl or a bowl similar to a matcha chawan works well.
3. Add Tea Leaves: If you're brewing loose leaf tea, begin by adding the leaves directly to your bowl. You need even fewer leaves than with Grandpa Style.
4. Pour Hot Water: Pour hot water over the leaves, ensuring all leaves are moistened. Allow the leaves to swirl around and settle.
5. Wait and Sip: Let the tea steep for 1-2 minutes. Savor the tea, gently separating the leaves with your lips and teeth as you sip.
6. Refill as Needed: Add more hot water once you've drunk about 3/4 of the bowl. Steep multiple times for stronger tea 

Tips:

• Use water at around 175°F (80°C) to avoid bitterness and make the tea drinkable sooner.
• Bowl Brewing is perfect for a personal tea session when you want to relax and enjoy the process.

 

 

Benefits of Grandpa Style and Bowl Brewing

1. Simplicity and Convenience

Both Grandpa Style and Bowl Brewing are incredibly easy and convenient. They require minimal equipment and preparation, making them perfect for busy days or when you're on the go.

2. Personal and Relaxing Experience

These methods allow for a more personal and meditative tea experience. Let the tea leaves unfurl and become one with the water. Take slow, mindful sips, savoring the warmth and the calming experience of this tea ritual.

3. Enhanced Flavor Profiles

Brewing tea directly in the cup or bowl can reveal new flavor profiles that you might not notice with more traditional methods. It allows the tea to develop gradually, providing a unique tasting experience.

4. Minimal Waste

Using fewer leaves and continuously refilling with hot water reduces waste and makes the most out of your tea leaves. It's an eco-friendly way to enjoy tea.

 

 

Conclusion: Embrace the Ease of Grandpa Style and Bowl Brewing

Grandpa Style and Bowl Brewing are two of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to brew tea. Their simplicity, convenience, and ability to enhance the tea-drinking experience make them perfect for both novice and seasoned tea drinkers. Whether you're looking for a quick cup of tea at work or a calming tea ritual at home, these methods offer a delightful way to enjoy your favorite teas.