Hue-style lotus tea, also known as “Hue lotus scented tea” or “Hue lotus flower tea,” is a traditional Vietnamese tea with a unique and delicate flavor. It is named after the city of Hue, which is known for its beautiful lotus flowers and rich tea culture.
To make Hue-style lotus tea, the process typically involves using fresh lotus flowers and high-quality tea leaves. Here’s a general overview of how it is prepared:
- Harvesting the lotus flowers: The lotus flowers are carefully hand-picked early in the morning when they are in full bloom. This is because the lotus flowers release their most fragrant aroma during this time.
- Collecting the stamens: The stamens, which are the small, yellow pollen-bearing parts of the lotus flower, are plucked from the flowers. These stamens are responsible for imparting the unique aroma and flavor to the tea.
- Layering the tea leaves: High-quality green tea leaves are placed in a container, and the lotus stamens are spread on top of the leaves. The tea leaves absorb the natural fragrance of the lotus stamens during this process.
- Letting the tea absorb the aroma: The tea leaves are left to sit with the lotus stamens for a certain period, usually overnight or for several hours. This allows the tea leaves to absorb the floral fragrance.
- Repeating the process: The layering process is often repeated several times to enhance the flavor and aroma of the tea further. Each round adds more depth to the tea’s character.
- Drying the tea: After the desired level of aroma and flavor is achieved, the tea leaves are carefully dried. This helps preserve the infused fragrance and allows the tea to be stored for an extended period.
The resulting Hue-style lotus tea is characterized by its delicate floral scent and a smooth, mellow taste. It is often enjoyed by steeping a small amount of the tea leaves in hot water, allowing the flavors to infuse, and then sipping the fragrant tea.
Lotus tea is not only appreciated for its taste but also for its potential health benefits. It is believed to have calming properties, aid digestion, and promote overall well-being.
Please note that the specific preparation method and ingredients used can vary, as different tea producers and regions may have their variations of Hue-style lotus tea.