普洱茶饼是这样制成的英语：详解普洱茶饼制作过程

普洱茶饼是这样制成的英语：详解普洱茶饼制作过程

Title: How Pu'er Tea Cake Is Made: An In-Depth Look into the Production Process

As a tea lover, one might wonder how the distinct and flavorsome Pu'er tea cake is made. This article delves into the intricate steps involved in creating this unique tea, providing an insight into the art and tradition behind its production.

Pu'er tea, known for its earthy and rich taste, is a type of fermented tea produced in the Yunnan province of China. Its history dates back to the Qing Dynasty when it was considered a tribute tea, offered to the emperors. Today, Pu'er tea is not only appreciated for its taste but also for its health benefits, including reducing body weight and blood fat.

1. Harvesting the Tea Leaves

The first step in making Pu'er tea is the harvesting of tea leaves. This process is done manually by skilled workers who select the youngest and freshest leaves from the tea trees. These leaves are then carefully plucked and transported to the processing facility.

2. Withering

Once at the facility, the tea leaves are spread out on large bamboo trays to wither. This process allows the leaves to lose their moisture content, making them more pliable and easier to roll. Withering can take several hours, depending on the weather conditions.

3. Killing the Green ( shaqing )

After withering, the leaves are subjected to a process called killing the green, which involves heating them to deactivate the enzymes that cause oxidation. This step is crucial as it stops the leaves from fermenting and preserves their green color. The leaves are typically roasted in a large wok or steamed, depending on the desired outcome.

4. Rolling

Once the leaves have been de-enzymed, they are rolled by hand or machine to bruise them and release their essential oils. This rolling process is what gives Pu'er tea its distinctive flavor and aroma. The bruised leaves are then left to ferment, which can take anywhere from a few days to several months.

5. Fermentation

Fermentation is a key step in the production of Pu'er tea. During this process, the leaves are pile-fermented, which means they are heap together in a controlled environment to encourage the growth of beneficial microorganisms. This fermentation process gives Pu'er tea its earthy and complex flavors. The degree of fermentation can vary, leading to different classifications of Pu'er tea.

6. Drying

After fermentation, the leaves are dried to remove any remning moisture. This is typically done in the sun, a process known as sundrying. The leaves are spread out on a flat surface and allowed to dry naturally. This step is important as it ensures that the tea will not spoil during storage.

7. Pressing into Tea Cake

Once the leaves are dry, they are ready to be pressed into the distinctive cake form. This is done using a large hydraulic press that applies pressure to the leaves, shaping them into cakes of various sizes and shapes. The cakes are then left to cool before being wrapped in paper for further aging.

8. Aging

Pu'er tea is known for its aging process. The cakes are stored in a controlled environment with proper humidity and temperature to allow them to mature over time. The longer the tea is aged, the more complex and rich its flavors become. This aging process can take years, or even decades, for the tea to reach its peak flavor.

9. Packaging and Distribution

Finally, the aged Pu'er tea cakes are packaged and distributed. They are wrapped in special paper that allows the tea to continue aging while protecting it from damage. The tea cakes are then shipped to tea shops and enthusiasts around the world.

Conclusion

The production of Pu'er tea cake is a meticulous and labor-intensive process that requires skill, knowledge, and patience. From harvesting the leaves to aging the cakes, each step plays a crucial role in creating the unique flavor and health benefits of this tea. Whether enjoyed for its taste or its health properties, Pu'er tea cake is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Chinese tea-making.

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Core Phrases and Vocabulary:

- How is tea made? (怎样制成茶)

- Classification according to the degree of fermentation, rolling, baking, and tea leaf maturity (按照制造时发酵程度、揉捻、烘焙和茶叶成熟度分类)

- Pu'er tea was one of the tribute teas in the Qing Dynasty (普洱茶在清代为贡茶)

- Pu'er tea has effectiveness in reducing body weight and blood fat (普洱茶具有减少体重和血脂的功效)

Understanding these phrases and vocabulary will help you appreciate the depth of the Pu'er tea-making process and its cultural significance.