Guangzhou, also known as Canton, is a city steeped in history and tradition, with its rich culinary heritage being one of its most cherished aspects. One such tradition that has stood the test of time is the early morning tea experience. This cultural ritual, deeply rooted in the local customs, offers a unique glimpse into the essence of Guangzhou’s way of life. In this article, we will delve into the secrets behind Guangzhou’s traditional early tea experience, exploring its origins, customs, and the delightful array of delicacies that accompany it.

Origins of the Early Tea Experience

The early tea experience in Guangzhou can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). It was during this period that tea houses began to flourish in the city. These establishments became gathering places for the local populace, where they could sip on tea, engage in conversation, and enjoy a variety of snacks. The early morning tea tradition became particularly popular among the working class, who would gather to unwind after a hard day’s work.

The Time and Place

The early tea experience is typically enjoyed between 6:00 am and 8:00 am. During this time, tea houses in Guangzhou are bustling with activity as locals arrive to partake in the ritual. These tea houses are often found in traditional Chinese architectural styles, with intricate wood carvings and ornate decorations that add to the ambiance.

The Tea

The cornerstone of the early tea experience is, of course, the tea itself. In Guangzhou, the most popular type of tea is the Pearl Milk Oolong, also known as “Pearl Tea.” This tea is characterized by its light, floral aroma and astringent taste, which is balanced by the addition of milk and sugar. The preparation of Pearl Tea is an art form in itself, requiring skilled hands to achieve the perfect blend.

### Pearl Tea Preparation

1. **Boil the Water:** Use fresh, cold water and bring it to a boil.
2. **Measure the Tea:** Use one teaspoon of Pearl Tea leaves for every 100 ml of water.
3. **Steep the Tea:** Place the tea leaves in a teapot and pour hot water over them. Steep for 3-5 minutes.
4. **Add Milk and Sugar:** Strain the tea into a cup and add milk and sugar to taste.
5. **Enjoy:** Sip slowly and appreciate the rich flavors.

The Snacks

Accompanying the tea are an array of delightful snacks, known as “dim sum” in Cantonese. Dim sum refers to a variety of small dishes that are typically steamed, fried, or baked. Some popular dim sum items include:

  • Char Siu Bao: A savory bun filled with slow-cooked pork, glazed with soy sauce and honey.
  • Siu Mai: Small dumplings made with shrimp and pork, steamed to perfection.
  • Shu Mai: Similar to siu mai, but with a slightly sweet filling of pork and shrimp.
  • Pork and Tofu Skin Rolls: Thin sheets of tofu skin filled with minced pork, seasoned with soy sauce, and steamed until tender.
### Char Siu Bao Preparation

1. **Ingredients:**
   - Pork belly: 300 g
   - Flour: 1 cup
   - Water: 1/2 cup
   - Salt: 1 teaspoon
   - Sugar: 1 teaspoon
   - Rice wine: 1 tablespoon
   - Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
   - Honey: 1 tablespoon
   - Yeast: 1 packet

2. **Prepare the Pork Belly:**
   - Boil the pork belly until tender.
   - Slice the pork belly into thin strips.
   - Glaze with soy sauce, honey, and rice wine.

3. **Prepare the Dough:**
   - Mix flour, water, salt, sugar, and yeast.
   - Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
   - Let it rise for 1 hour.

4. **Shape the Buns:**
   - Divide the dough into small balls.
   - Flatten each ball and place a strip of pork belly in the center.
   - Wrap the dough around the pork belly, shaping it into a bun.

5. **Bake:**
   - Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
   - Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   - Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Conclusion

Guangzhou’s traditional early tea experience is more than just a ritual; it is a celebration of the city’s rich culinary heritage. By partaking in this tradition, visitors and locals alike can savor the unique flavors of Guangzhou’s early morning tea experience, creating lasting memories along the way.