A Special Gift from Taiwan: My Journey with Pouchong Tea
I want to share a special Taiwanese tea that my mom brought me when she visited.
Although I wasn’t initially a fan of traditional tea, I had some exposure through my dad, who drank it daily and enjoyed his own tea accessories. Interestingly, my husband loves tea. He grew up drinking Turkish tea because his parents made it a daily ritual.
On a trip to Taiwan, my mom took us to Jiufen, a beautiful mountain town northeast of Taipei. We spent two hours in a traditional tea shop, where we learned how to brew tea properly. Surprisingly, my husband became better at making tea than I did!
I started drinking tea because my husband didn’t want the high-quality tea to go to waste. Over time, I developed a habit of drinking it each morning. Now, I find it to be a light, refreshing drink that leaves my mouth feeling fresh. Plus, it’s healthy! I do recommend avoiding tea after 3 PM, though, as it can affect sleep for some people.
What is Pouchong Tea?
Pouchong tea (包種茶) is a lightly oxidized oolong tea from Wen Shan, Taiwan. It strikes a perfect balance between green tea and oolong tea, offering a delicate floral aroma and a smooth, slightly sweet aftertaste. Due to its minimal oxidation (about 10–20%), it provides a flavor that is both fresh and vibrant.
Health Benefits of Pouchong Tea:
Drinking Pouchong tea offers multiple potential health benefits:
✅ Rich in Antioxidants – Helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
✅ Boosts Immunity – High in polyphenols, which support the immune system.
✅ Supports Heart Health – May help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
✅ Reduces Cholesterol – May aid in lowering bad cholesterol levels.
✅ Aids Digestion – Helps reduce bloating and supports gut health.
✅ Supports Weight Loss – May boost metabolism and fat oxidation.
✅ Regulates Blood Sugar – Oolong teas may help lower glucose levels in people with Type 2 diabetes.
✅ Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties – Studies suggest oolong teas may help prevent certain cancers, including throat and neck cancer.
✅ Promotes Dental Health – Contains natural fluoride, which helps prevent cavities.
(All benefits are sourced from the internet.)
It’s tea time
How to Brew Pouchong Tea:
Warm up the teapot with boiling water, then pour the water into the tea leaves and cover the lid for 1 minute before serving.
- You can prepare the same amount of tea by pouring boiling water over the leaves 3 to 4 times.
- Tea vessels made of clay enhance the flavor, giving the tea a richer taste.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Pouchong Tea
If you’re looking for a refreshing, smooth tea with great health benefits, Pouchong tea from Taiwan is a must-try! Whether you’re new to Taiwanese teas or a long-time tea drinker, this lightly oxidized oolong is a fantastic addition to your daily routine.
