Green Tea

Nowadays, everyone is talking about the health benefits of green tea. What is green tea, anyway? Green tea comes from the same tea plant as black tea, but it is processed differently.  Normal black tea comes from fermented tea leaves. The fermentation changes its color and flavor and increases levels of caffeine and tannins, whereas green tea is unfermented, slightly steamed, dried tea leaves.

Green tea contains chemicals called favonoids, which are very powerful antioxidants. But remember, green tea is not caffeine free.  Green tea’s anti-oxidizing properties come from the presence of its caffeine. The health benefits of green tea include anti-aging, immune boosting, anti-carcinogenic, cholesterol reducing, and the fact that it is anti-diabetic. It is also good for weight loss.
 

Did you know that green tea is best for getting rid of hangovers caused by over consumption of alcohol?

How to brew green tea

 When you are brewing the green tea or any tea, remember what the Chinese say: “Water is the mother of the tea”. Boil the water to 180˚ F. Swirl the teapot with hot water and add 1 teaspoon of tea leaves for one cup of tea. Add hot water and let it brew for 3 minutes and enjoy. Green tea is usually not served with either milk nor with sugar.

Next time you are craving hot tea, how about reaching for some wholesome green tea?

For more memorable centerpieces, tablescapes, and recipes (including gluten free recipes), please check out my book, Entertaining From an Ethnic Indian Kitchen, at my website komalinunna.com.
 

I am joining  Cindy for Show,Tell  and Foodie Friday
How Sweet the Sound.