Sencha: what is this tea, description, properties

Japanese sencha tea is popular not only among Asians, it is loved all over the world. This drink is endowed with a mass of useful properties. The correct approach to brewing Sencha gives the opportunity to maximize flavor and aroma. Green tea Sencha has long been a classic of Japan, which has its connoisseurs all over the world.

Sencha Tea Varieties and Features

This variety of tea appeared several centuries ago. Legend has it that it was first cultivated by Japanese Buddhist monks back in the 13th century. For a long time this variety was available only to the wealthy people. Sencha was considered an expensive product. After a while, it became popular not only in its native country, but also beyond its borders.

Thin rolled up petals of sencha resemble pine needles. In Japan they are also called spider legs. During production, the leaves of this tea are not roasted, but simply steamed. This makes it possible to preserve the maximum amount of vitamins and minerals present in its composition.

Flavor and aroma

Sencha is similar to a regular green tea in taste and aroma. Its distinctive feature is a more refined taste. The aroma of sencha is barely perceptible, and some say it has a slight bitterness. But this has nothing to do with the flavor of the tea and is explained by the long brewing period. If brewed correctly, it has no bitterness.

The color of this tea is light yellow, typical of green teas. The aroma is faintly expressed. The strong smell suggests that the composition present aromatic additives. The taste of senchi is mild with notes of light astringency. We should also note a pleasant aftertaste. Sencha has the following effects on the body:

• relaxing;
• refreshing;
• mental stimulation.

How to drink sencha tea correctly?

Japanese tea is drunk with a variety of desserts. To get the most out of the local Asian flavor, it is poured into Japanese-style dishes. However, to experience the subtle flavor nuances, it must be consumed pure.

In Japan, sencha is drunk not only hot, but also slightly cooled. A cup of cool tea is refreshing in the heat, while the hot beverage is relaxing and sleepy, and can be drunk in the evening.

What are the benefits of sencha

Sencha contains a large amount of ascorbic acid, which has a positive effect on the immune system, protecting the body from infections. It also contains vitamin A, which contributes to strengthening bone tissue, vision, hair and nails. And also in this kind of tea is tocopherol, which improves the condition of the skin, thanks to it becomes less brittle hair.

Japanese tea has a lot of antioxidants that reduce the likelihood of tumors. They fight free radicals and inhibit the aging process. Natural antioxidants have a beneficial effect on the skin and make facial wrinkles less pronounced.

Cooking rules and contraindications

To brew sencha, it is necessary to use filtered liquid, which has no impurities with sediments. Also requires a special utensil - ceramic, glass or clay.

The kettle is first scalded with hot water, and then the tea petals are placed in it. Pour them with the liquid, the temperature of which is no more than 85 degrees. After half a minute, the first brew is drained in order to rinse the tea and get rid of the bad taste. The leaves are infused with water and left to stand for a minute, after which they are ready for sampling. Sencha can be brewed 3 to 4 times.

Japanese tea should not be consumed if you have individual intolerances or allergic reactions. The drink should also not be abused by women during pregnancy and breastfeeding, people who are hypotensive.