Gongfu cha (工夫茶, gōngfu chá)
Gongfu cha (工夫茶) is a tradition of attentive brewing in small quantities, usually with a relatively high proportion of leaves and repeated short infusions.
It is closely associated with Chaozhou tea culture in Guangdong, where oolong has a prominent place. Regional traditions and schools have their own methods and sequences. Modern home brewing may be simpler and need not reproduce a full ceremony.
Place leaves in a small teapot or gaiwan, add water and decant after your chosen time. A serving pitcher helps give each cup the same strength; without one, pour a little into each cup in turn. Match vessel size, leaf quantity and temperature to the tea and the number of people.
With each infusion, watch the leaves open and notice how the flavour changes. Keep going while you enjoy the tea, and stop when you have had enough. You can also brew a larger cup using fewer leaves and a longer steep.
Related teas
Chinese tea glossary