In Japan, the common method for producing green tea involves steaming the leaves. However, tea that is pan-fired using a kettle called a “kama” instead of steaming is known as pan-fired tea. The process of pan-firing removes the green, grassy taste inherent in fresh leaves and creates a toasty aroma known as “kama-ka” or “kama-kou.”
The method of pan-firing tea leaves is widely used in Chinese green teas and is said to have been brought to Japan from China during the late Sengoku period. Subsequently, steaming became the more common method in Japan, and the number of producers of pan-fired green tea dwindled. Today, it is only produced in a few limited areas in Kyushu, and due to its rarity, pan-fired tea is often referred to as a “legendary tea.”
This article will introduce the characteristics of pan-fired tea and how to brew it deliciously.
The brewed tea will look like the picture below.
Characteristics of the appearance of tea leaves and tea.
Pan-fired green tea leaves are characterized by their curled, round shape. The brewed tea has a transparent yellow-green color, often referred to as olive green.
Flavor characteristics
The tea has a smooth mouthfeel, allowing you to gently experience its umami and sweetness. Additionally, you can enjoy the refreshing bitterness and astringency typical of pan-fired tea.
Aroma characteristics
You can enjoy the most distinctive feature of pan-fired tea: the toasty aroma known as *kama-ka* or *kama-kou*.
Brewing conditions
Tea leaves: 7g (3–4 teaspoons)
Water amount: 300ml
Brewing temperature: 70°C (Raising the temperature to around 85°C will enhance the aroma.)
Brewing time: 1.5 minutes
Recommended tea pairings
- Burrata cheese (and other fresh cheeses)
- Rice crackers
- Olives
Another characteristic of pan-fired green tea is that it reveals different nuances when you make slight adjustments to the brewing temperature and time. teplo teapot Using the teplo teapot, you can automatically brew tea under optimal conditions. If you’re interested, be sure to check it out.
Once you get hooked on the toasty aroma of pan-fired tea, you might not be able to escape its allure. Prepare yourself for this legendary Japanese tea and enjoy!
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