I understand that some people like loose tea. I used to use loose tea, but I have come to the point where I simply prefer using a tea bag. To me, it really isn’t a big deal. But, in some circles, using tea bags is almost blasphemous.
First of all, let me say, that for these so-called “purists,” you might want to find something more noble to pursue and to actually get a life. I understand that there are some tea bags, mostly the kind you find at Krogers or Walmart, leave a little much to be desired. But, if you purchase a quality tea that comes in a quality pouch, pyramid, or bag, you are going to get the exact same flavors and benefits.
This has been an issue, especially for those of us who enjoy Oolong tea. Oolong tea bags are actually relatively new. As more and more manufacturers began selling Wulong, the need to use a bag grew… which is fine with me.
Let me give you a couple of tips when you are buying Oolong tea bags, whether at a place like Whole Foods, or ordering online.
- Choose one that gives room for the tea to float during the steeping process. Too many bags are small and tight, trying to cram as many bags into as small a box as possible. This can break the leaves and you won’t receive the full benefits of the tea.
- Choose one that can last at least a full day so that you can re-use the bag again later in the day. I like to re-use mine at least twice, sometimes three times. I actually enjoy the flavor more the second time around.
- If you’re like me, I enjoy variety. Sometimes I go with the little pyramids (those are my favorites – especially with company), and sometimes with a more of a traditional bag, as long as the bag is a quality one.
- I usually spend $12 – $15 on a tin of Oolong tea bags when I am buying online or at Whole Foods. I found that spending less than that usually resulted in less quality.
Just remember, this is not your mother’s Lipton sun tea brewing outside in the summer (ha ha). Oolong tea has so many good health benefits, from the antioxident values to even the weight loss and slimming value. While you don’t need to go overboard, don’t get cheap when buying. It is still a lot cheaper than Starbucks and will last you a long time.
Call me a bit wierd, but I also never buy Oolong tea unless it meets two other criteria: 1) It must be ogranic oolong. I don’t trust anything else. 2) It must come from East Asia. I have tried Wulong from other areas of the world, and the flavor was different and it felt like I was drinking something entirely different.
My final thought here – the next time you have a few extra dollars, purchase or give yourself a nice tea set to complement your tea. It is pure asthetics, but it is one more thing that I enjoy either by myself or with company. You can do a Google search for these sets. Put your oolong tea bag in the pot, steep it, and pour.