The following is a step-by-step method to brewing green tea, just as is done in Japan.
This recipe is for preparing 3 cups. Adjust water and tea quantity to desired amount. Boil Water in an Ordinary or Electric Tea Kettle.
Step 1:Pour Hot Water into the 3 Teacups.
This will cool down the water to an appropriate temperature.
For Sencha, use water between 70ºC (158ºF) and 80ºC (176ºF)
For Houjicha and Genmaicha, use water between 90ºC (194ºF) and boiling.
For Houjicha and Genmaicha, you may alternately skip Step 1, and pour boiling water directly into teapot after adding tea.
Step 2 : Add Green Tea to the Teapot.
One heaped tablespoon (about 7 grams) of tea makes 3 cups.
For Houjicha and Genmaicha, use slightly more tea (about 8.75 grams).
Step 3 : Pour Hot Water from Cups into Teapot, Steep for about 30 Seconds*
Should be about 1.5 cups (350cc) of hot water for 7 grams of tea.
*From the 2nd infusion, it is only necessary to steep very briefly before pouring.
Step 4 : After Steeping, Pour Tea into Cups.
While pouring it helps if you gently rotate the pot to ensure tea does not separate.
Step 5 : Pour to the Last Drop.
Green tea is delicious to the very last drop, so be sure you drink it up!
This will ensure that the following infusions will also taste delicious.
Enjoy!