The Best Teas To Drink in Summer and tea pairing vol.1
立夏 (5.5-20.5, SUMMER BEGINS): The sound of cicadas heralds the arrival of Lì Xià, and green tea is the best for nourishing the heart. "立" means "great" and signifies that the plants sown in spring have grown tall and upright.
From a health perspective, after Lì Xià, it is important for our bodies to adapt to the changing weather and focus on nourishing the heart. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the heart corresponds to the summer season. Nourishing the heart entails maintaining inner peace and tranquility, which involves letting go of anger.
Teas suitable for this season include fresh green teas, aged Pu-erh teas of at least three years, and Oolong teas. White teas aged for three years or more and well-aged dark teas can also provide cooling and relief from summer heat.
小满 (20.5-5.6, Xiǎo Mǎn): Grains are growing, and white tea tastes pure during Xiǎo Mǎn. The second solar term of summer has two meanings: one is that the seeds of summer crops start to plump but are not yet fully mature, only partially ripe; the other is that rainfall is abundant during this period, meeting the needs of crops.
Just as agricultural crops have their destinies during 小满, various teas also have their roles. Green teas have already been processed, and Wuyi rock teas have completed the initial processing and are ready for further refining during the months of July and August. Fenghuang Dancong teas have entered the final stage of refinement, while Pu-erh teas are busy being pressed into cakes and packaged. White peony from Zhenghe has already been packed. Teas in different times and spaces have different processes.
芒种 (5.6-21.6, Máng Zhòng): Ripe grains, humid and hot weather; aged dark tea is especially enjoyable.
Now is the time of the year with the highest temperatures. People sweat a lot, and the body is prone to 'Qi' deficiency. In addition to replenishing fluids and electrolytes, it is also necessary to nourish 'Qi'. There is a saying, "Food is better than medicine for nourishing the body."
Chinese Yam, also known as Shan Yao, is an excellent choice for pairing with tea and replenishing Qi. Pairing it with Blueberry Yam, a famous Chinese cold dish, creates a perfect harmony when enjoyed alongside a medium oxidized Oolong Tea such as Fenghuang Dancong (Duck Shit Dancong) . When it comes to replenishing fluids, Citrus fruits and Longgan Fruit are both wonderful options. Citrus fruits are often enjoyed with tea in many cultures, while Longgan Fruit has a calming effect and pairs effortlessly with teas that have either a savory or sweet profile, enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful contrast. Consider enjoying it with teas such as Anji Baicha and White Teas for a truly refreshing experience.
Remember to adjust the brewing temperature and steeping time according to the tea type and personal preference. Stay hydrated and enjoy the refreshing and cooling properties of these recommended teas during the summer months. Cheers to a delightful tea journey with Cha Moods!