A Brief History of Tea

The origins of tea can be traced back nearly 5,000 years to a legendary emperor of China. A prolific herbalist, it is believed that leaves from some twigs he was burning floated into a boiling kettle of water. The results were delicious, and tea was invented. The hot beverage flourished throughout southern Asia; the Dutch East India Company introduced it to Europe in the late 17th century. From there it spread to the American colonies and the rest of the world!

Types of Tea

There are many types of teas, the most popular being black, oolong, green and white. All teas come from the same warm-weather evergreen plant: the Camellia sinensis, or tea plant. Tisane or “herbal” teas can be a mixture of just about anything: herbs, flowers, spices, seeds, etc. There are also varieties of tea that are real teas with spices or other flavorings blended in. Earl Grey, for instance, is black tea with bergamot peel or oil added.

The Benefits of Tea

Tea is more popular than ever. And every cup is brimming with benefits: natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Drinking tea has actually been found to be better for you than drinking water. It rehydrates your body and its healthy antioxidants may offer protection against a wide range of diseases. Tea can be an invigorating start to the morning, a soothing break from a busy day, or a comfortable way to unwind and relax each evening – it all adds up to a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

The Art of Steeping Tea

Great care is taken to create every tea’s unique character. Each tea should be brewed at the right temperature to properly savor and appreciate all the natural and aromatic flavors and benefits. More delicate teas risk burning at general steeping temperatures; this variety should be steeped at a lower temperature to optimize flavors. Below is a chart with our suggested steeping temperatures and times.

Tea Steeping Chart

Type

Temperature

Steep Time

 

 

 

Delicate Tea

160°F

1–2 min

 

 

 

Green Tea

175°F

2–3 min

 

 

 

White Tea

185°F

2–3 min

 

 

 

Oolong Tea

190°F

3–4 min

 

 

 

French Press

200°F

4–5 min

 

 

 

Black & Herbal Teas

212°F

3–5 min

(full boil)

 

 

 

 

 

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Cuisinart CPK-17 manual Brief History of Tea, Types of Tea, Benefits of Tea, Art of Steeping Tea
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CPK-17 specifications

The Cuisinart CPK-17 is a standout electric kettle that perfectly balances modern convenience with sophisticated design. Designed for tea enthusiasts and those who regularly prepare hot beverages, this kettle has quickly gained acclaim for its performance, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

One of the primary features of the CPK-17 is its stainless steel construction, which not only enhances its durability but also contributes to its sleek, elegant appearance. This kettle boasts a generous capacity of 1.7 liters, making it ideal for serving multiple cups of tea or coffee simultaneously. Whether you're making breakfast for the family or hosting guests, you can count on the CPK-17 to meet your needs.

The kettle is equipped with six preset temperature settings ranging from 160°F to 212°F, allowing you to brew a variety of teas and coffees at their optimal temperatures. Green tea, white tea, oolong tea, and black tea each require different heat levels and the CPK-17 ensures that each cup is brewed to perfection. This versatility is a significant advantage for users who appreciate the nuances in different types of tea.

One of the standout technologies used in the Cuisinart CPK-17 is the one-touch control panel, which allows for effortless operation. With just the press of a button, users can select their desired temperature or program the kettle for a quick boil. Additionally, the kettle features a keep-warm function that maintains the selected temperature for up to 30 minutes, providing users ample time to prepare their tea or coffee without fear of cooling.

Safety is also a top priority with the CPK-17. It includes an automatic shutoff feature, which kicks in when the water reaches boiling point or if the kettle is accidentally switched on without water. This added peace of mind makes it a suitable choice for busy households.

The Cuisinart CPK-17 also features a 360-degree swivel base, allowing for easy access from any angle. Its large, ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, and the integrated filter helps to ensure that water is free of impurities.

In summary, the Cuisinart CPK-17 is not only a stylish addition to your kitchen but also a highly functional appliance. With its variety of temperature settings, one-touch controls, and safety features, this electric kettle is perfect for aspiring baristas and tea aficionados alike. Its thoughtful design and technology make it a worthy investment for those who appreciate quality in their hot beverage preparation.
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