Oolong Tea

What Is Oolong Tea?

Oolong tea, like all true teas, is made from the leaves of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis); what sets it apart is that its leaves are partially (semi-) oxidised. Since this degree of oxidation sits between green tea and black tea, oolong is positioned between the two.

Depending on the degree of oxidation and roasting, it offers a very wide flavour range: lightly oxidised versions are floral and close to fresh green tea, while heavily oxidised, roasted versions are dark, toasty, and close to black tea. This diversity makes oolong a rich tea category.

Nutritional Values of Oolong Tea

Plain brewed oolong tea is almost calorie-free as a drink; it mainly contains caffeine and the natural plant compounds found in tea. Unless sugar or milk is added, its calorie contribution to a meal is negligible.

How Should Oolong Tea Be Assessed?

Since oolong contains caffeine, those sensitive to caffeine and those drinking it in the evening should be mindful. It is a drink enjoyed for its taste as part of a balanced fluid intake.

This information is general; oolong tea is a drink, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Oolong Tea?

Good oolong has whole leaves, either curled or rolled into balls, that are clean and carry their distinctive scent. Dusty, scent-lost, or damp products are not preferred.

• The leaves should be whole and clean
• It should carry its distinctive scent
• Damp, dusty products should not be chosen

How to Store Oolong Tea?

Oolong tea is stored in a sealed, light-blocking container in a cool, dry place. Since tea easily absorbs surrounding odours and moisture, it should be kept away from spices and scented products.

Using Oolong Tea in the Kitchen and Brewing

Oolong is mostly drunk brewed hot; it is also used as iced tea, in tea-based drinks, and as a flavouring in some sweet and savoury recipes. Varieties that can be steeped many times over give a different taste with each infusion.

How Is Oolong Tea Brewed?

Oolong is usually brewed with water just below boiling point (around 85–95 °C), for short steeping times; the same leaves can be re-steeped several times, yielding different layers of flavour. Steeping too long can make it bitter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is oolong a green tea or a black tea?

Neither; oolong is a semi-oxidised tea positioned between green and black tea. It is made from the same tea plant, just with different processing.

How many times can oolong be re-steeped?

Quality oolong leaves, especially the ball-rolled kind, can be re-steeped several times; each infusion gives a different taste and intensity.

What does oolong taste like?

Depending on the variety, it ranges widely from floral and lightly roasted to toasty and intense; so there is no single “oolong taste.”