Milk Oolong Tea Recipe (Jin Xuan)

Milk oolong tea leaves: These are the star of the recipe, providing a creamy, buttery flavor that is unique to this type of tea.

Boiled and slightly cooled water: Essential for brewing the tea, the water should be boiled and then allowed to cool slightly to the optimal temperature for steeping.

To enhance the flavor of your milk oolong tea, consider pre-warming your teapot by rinsing it with hot water before adding the tea leaves. This helps maintain the optimal brewing temperature and ensures a more consistent and flavorful infusion.

• milk oolong tea leaves - Substitute with green tea leaves: Green tea leaves offer a similar light and floral flavor profile, though they lack the creamy notes of milk oolong.

• milk oolong tea leaves - Substitute with jasmine tea leaves: Jasmine tea leaves provide a fragrant and delicate taste, which can mimic the subtle floral notes of milk oolong.

• boiled and slightly cooled water - Substitute with boiled and slightly cooled coconut water: Coconut water adds a natural sweetness and a hint of creaminess, enhancing the tea's flavor.

• boiled and slightly cooled water - Substitute with boiled and slightly cooled almond milk: Almond milk introduces a nutty flavor and creamy texture, complementing the tea leaves.

• Store your milk oolong tea leaves in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Choose a container that is opaque to protect the leaves from light, which can degrade their quality over time.

• Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors. The pantry or a dedicated tea cabinet works perfectly.

• For long-term storage, consider vacuum-sealing the tea leaves. This method removes air and helps preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the milk oolong.

• If you need to freeze the tea leaves, first ensure they are in an airtight, freezer-safe container. This prevents moisture from entering and causing freezer burn.

• When ready to use frozen tea leaves, allow them to come to room temperature before opening the container. This prevents condensation from forming on the leaves, which can affect their quality.

• Avoid storing milk oolong tea in the refrigerator, as the frequent opening and closing can introduce moisture and odors that may compromise the tea's flavor.

• Label your storage containers with the date of purchase or freezing. This helps you keep track of the tea's freshness and ensures you use the oldest stock first.

• For the best flavor, try to use your milk oolong tea within six months of purchase. While it may still be drinkable after this period, the taste and aroma may not be as vibrant.

• Stovetop method: Pour the leftover milk oolong tea into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Remove from heat once it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can alter the delicate flavors.
• Microwave method: Transfer the tea to a microwave-safe mug or container. Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches the desired warmth. Avoid overheating to preserve the tea's subtle notes.
• Double boiler method: Fill a pot with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl with the tea over the pot, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Stir occasionally until the tea is warmed through. This gentle method helps maintain the tea's original flavor profile.
• Thermos method: If you have a good-quality thermos, you can pour the leftover milk oolong tea into it immediately after brewing. The thermos will keep the tea warm for several hours, allowing you to enjoy it later without reheating.

• Teapot: A vessel to hold the tea leaves and hot water for steeping.

• Kettle: Used to boil the water before letting it cool slightly.

• Teaspoon: For measuring the precise amount of milk oolong tea leaves.

• Cup: The final container for enjoying the strained tea.

• Strainer: To separate the tea leaves from the liquid when pouring into the cup.

Preheat the water: Boil water in advance and store it in a thermos to save time when making multiple cups of milk oolong tea.

Measure the leaves: Pre-measure tea leaves and store them in small containers for quick use.

Use a timer: Set a timer for the steeping process to ensure perfect flavor without having to watch the clock.

Quick cooling: Pour boiled water into a cup and let it cool for a minute while you prepare other ingredients to streamline the process.