How to Brew Dragonwell Lung Ching Green Tea
By Clipper Ship Tea Company | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to brew Dragonwell Lung Ching green tea for a smooth, buttery cup. Follow these simple steps for water temperature, leaf amount, and steeping time.
Quick answer
Brew Dragonwell Lung Ching green tea with water around 175°F (80°C), about 1 teaspoon of leaves per 8 ounces, and steep for 2 to 3 minutes. Adjust to taste.
Why water temperature matters for Dragonwell
Dragonwell Lung Ching is a pan-fired green tea, which gives it a savory, buttery character. Using water that is too hot—near boiling—can scorch the delicate leaves and release bitter compounds. Aim for water that is just below a boil, around 175°F (80°C). If you don't have a thermometer, let boiling water sit for a couple of minutes before pouring.
The flattened shape of Dragonwell leaves, created by hand-panning, allows them to unfurl quickly. This means you don't need a long steeping time to extract flavor. Over-steeping can make the tea taste harsh and astringent, so keep an eye on the clock.
Choosing the right amount of leaves
The amount of Dragonwell leaves you use affects both strength and flavor. A standard ratio is about 1 teaspoon (2-3 grams) of loose leaves per 8-ounce cup. If you prefer a stronger cup, you can add a little more, but be careful not to overdo it—too many leaves can overpower the delicate vegetal notes.
For a gaiwan or small teapot, you can use more leaves with shorter steeps, but for a simple mug, the teaspoon ratio works well. Remember that Dragonwell is a green tea, so it can be re-steeped multiple times; the flavor will evolve with each infusion.
Step-by-step brewing guide
- Heat the water: Heat fresh, filtered water to about 175°F (80°C). If using a kettle without temperature control, bring to a boil and let it sit for 2 minutes. Check the water temperature if you're unsure—boiling water will ruin the taste.
- Measure the leaves: Place about 1 teaspoon (2-3 grams) of Dragonwell Lung Ching leaves into your cup or teapot for every 8 ounces of water. Adjust the amount next time based on your strength preference.
- Pour and steep: Pour the hot water over the leaves and steep for 2 to 3 minutes. Start with 2 minutes and taste, then extend if you want a stronger cup. Set a timer—oversteeping leads to bitterness.
- Strain and enjoy: Strain the leaves or use a infuser, then sip slowly. Notice the buttery, vegetal, and nutty flavors. You can re-steep the leaves 2-3 more times, adding a little more time for each subsequent steep. Don't discard the leaves after the first steep—Dragonwell rewards multiple infusions.
A Dragonwell worth trying
- Dragonwell Lung Ching Organic: Dragonwell Lung Ching Organic has tasting notes of vegetal, buttery, and nutty, and is described as savory, aromatic, and smooth. This flavor profile is best enjoyed with a slightly cooler water temperature and a shorter steep to preserve its delicate notes.
Dragonwell Lung Ching Organic
