What Really is Jasmine Pearls Tea ?
- Kelvin Lee
- Oct 23, 2024
- 5 min read
Jasmine Pearls tea is a mesmerizing combination of high-quality green tea leaves and the enchanting fragrance of fresh jasmine blossoms. Also known as Moli Hua Cha (茉莉花茶) in Chinese, this tea is famous for its delicate floral scent, light sweetness, and soothing nature. The "pearls" in Jasmine Pearls tea refer to the hand-rolled green tea leaves, which are carefully shaped into small, pearl-like balls and scented with jasmine flowers.
In this blog, we will explore the beauty, history, and unique characteristics of Jasmine Pearls tea, along with tips on how to brew the perfect cup.

What Are Jasmine Pearls?
Jasmine Pearls tea is made by blending two essential elements: young, tender green tea leaves and freshly picked jasmine flowers. The green tea is harvested in the early spring, when the leaves are at their freshest. After picking, these leaves are tightly rolled by hand into tiny spheres that resemble pearls.
The tea leaves are then stored until summer, when jasmine flowers bloom. The pearls are scented with the flowers by layering the tea leaves with fresh jasmine blossoms, allowing the leaves to absorb the floral fragrance. This scenting process is often repeated multiple times, with the highest quality Jasmine Pearls being scented up to seven times.
The result is a beautifully fragrant tea with a balance of floral and vegetal notes, offering a truly refined tea-drinking experience.
A Brief History of Jasmine Pearls Tea
The tradition of scenting tea with jasmine flowers began in China during the Song Dynasty (960–1279). Jasmine, which is native to Persia, was introduced to China via the Silk Road. Initially, jasmine flowers were prized for their beauty and fragrance, and it didn’t take long for Chinese tea masters to incorporate the flower’s scent into their tea-making process.
By the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), jasmine-scented teas had become popular throughout China, and Jasmine Pearls emerged as one of the finest representations of this art. The technique of hand-rolling the tea leaves into pearls not only enhanced the tea’s visual appeal but also helped preserve the delicate aroma of the jasmine flowers.
Today, Jasmine Pearls tea remains one of the most beloved scented teas, not only in China but around the world, cherished for its light, refreshing taste and floral fragrance.
The Unique Flavor Profile of Jasmine Pearls Tea
Jasmine Pearls tea offers a refined and elegant flavor that is both soothing and invigorating. It strikes the perfect balance between the fresh, grassy taste of green tea and the sweet, floral notes of jasmine. Here’s what you can expect from a well-brewed cup of Jasmine Pearls tea:
Floral aroma: The most prominent feature of Jasmine Pearls is its intoxicating jasmine fragrance. The scent is sweet and refreshing, with a calming effect on the senses.
Delicate sweetness: The tea itself has a gentle sweetness that complements the floral aroma. This natural sweetness is light and smooth, without any overpowering aftertaste.
Vegetal undertones: The green tea base provides subtle vegetal notes, often described as fresh, grassy, or slightly nutty, which balance the sweetness of the jasmine flowers.
Smooth finish: Jasmine Pearls tea has a smooth and soft mouthfeel, with no bitterness. The tea leaves release flavor gradually, offering multiple infusions with a consistent, gentle taste.
Health Benefits of Jasmine Pearls Tea
In addition to its lovely flavor and aroma, Jasmine Pearls tea also boasts a range of health benefits. The green tea base is rich in antioxidants, while the jasmine flowers add calming and stress-relieving properties. Here are some of the key health benefits associated with drinking Jasmine Pearls tea:
Rich in antioxidants: Green tea is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and support overall health.
Promotes relaxation: The soothing aroma of jasmine has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Drinking jasmine tea can be a great way to unwind after a long day.
Supports heart health: The antioxidants in Jasmine Pearls tea may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Aids in digestion: The gentle properties of jasmine-scented tea can aid in digestion and help prevent bloating or discomfort after meals.
Boosts metabolism: Like other green teas, Jasmine Pearls can help enhance metabolism, making it a popular choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
Improves mental alertness: With moderate caffeine levels, Jasmine Pearls tea provides a gentle energy boost without the jitteriness often associated with coffee. It helps improve focus and concentration.
Brewing Jasmine Pearls Tea
How to Brew Jasmine Pearls Tea
Brewing Jasmine Pearls tea is a simple process, but attention to detail will ensure that you get the best flavor and aroma from your tea. Here’s a step-by-step guide to brewing the perfect cup of Jasmine Pearls tea:
Choose the right vessel: A glass teapot or a porcelain gaiwan (lidded bowl) is ideal for brewing Jasmine Pearls. The clear teapot allows you to watch the pearls unfurl, adding to the visual enjoyment of the tea.
Measure the tea: Use about 5-7 grams (1-2 teaspoons) of Jasmine Pearls for every 150 ml of water. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Water temperature: Jasmine Pearls tea should be brewed at a lower temperature to avoid burning the delicate tea leaves. The ideal water temperature is around 75-80°C (167-176°F).
Steeping time: Steep the tea for about 2-3 minutes for the first infusion. Jasmine Pearls can be brewed multiple times, with subsequent infusions requiring slightly longer steeping times.
Watch the pearls unfurl: One of the joys of brewing Jasmine Pearls tea is watching the small pearls gradually unfurl into full leaves, releasing their fragrance and flavor.
Enjoy multiple infusions: Jasmine Pearls tea is perfect for multiple infusions, with each steep revealing new layers of flavor. The floral fragrance tends to be strongest in the first infusion, while the vegetal notes become more prominent in later brews.
How to Choose High-Quality Jasmine Pearls Tea
When shopping for Jasmine Pearls tea, it’s essential to look for quality to ensure you’re getting the best flavor and aroma. Here are some tips for choosing high-quality Jasmine Pearls:
Appearance: High-quality Jasmine Pearls should be tightly rolled and have a uniform shape and size. The leaves should have a vibrant green color, indicating freshness.
Scent: The tea should have a strong jasmine fragrance without any artificial or overpowering perfumes. The floral aroma should be natural and sweet.
Origin: Jasmine Pearls are primarily produced in the Fujian province of China, where the climate is ideal for growing both green tea and jasmine flowers. Look for teas sourced from this region for authenticity.
Hand-rolling: The best Jasmine Pearls are hand-rolled, as this process helps preserve the flavor and fragrance of the tea leaves.
Reputation: As with any premium tea, it’s important to buy from reputable sellers. Specialty tea shops or trusted online vendors will offer the highest quality Jasmine Pearls tea.
Conclusion: The Allure of Jasmine Pearls Tea
Jasmine Pearls tea is a delightful blend of fragrant jasmine flowers and high-quality green tea leaves, offering a harmonious balance of floral sweetness and vegetal freshness. Whether you’re a seasoned tea drinker or just beginning your journey into the world of loose-leaf teas, Jasmine Pearls provide a refreshing, aromatic experience that is perfect for any time of day.
By taking the time to brew this tea correctly, you can fully appreciate the beauty of the jasmine fragrance and the smooth, delicate taste of the green tea. The elegance and simplicity of Jasmine Pearls make it a must-try for tea lovers everywhere.
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