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1
Gather the new yellow-green leaves (3 leaf shoots).
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2
I gathered up one big sieve worth.
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3
This amount of leaves is processed in 3 batches.
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4
Start processing the leaves as soon as they are picked.
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5
It's best not to wash them, but it bothers me not to so I rinse them quickly in water.
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6
Drain the water off well.
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7
Put the leaves on a heatproof dish and microwave for about 2 minutes.
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8
This steams the leaves.
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9
The steamed leaves are hot.
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10
Taking care not to burn yourself, rub the leaves vigorously.
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11
It may be best to rub them on a cutting board...
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12
Squeeze out the moisture in the leaves as you rub them for 2 to 3 minutes.
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13
Put the leaves back in the microwave, and microwave for 1 minute this time.
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14
From this point on we'll be drying the leaves.
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15
Repeat Steps 5 and size - rub the leave, then dry them out - 5 to 6 times.
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16
The fragrance of the new tea leaves will fill the room.
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17
The leaves will gradually lose moisture and become crispy.
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18
When there's no moisture left in the leaves they're done.
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19
These are the finished leaves!
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20
If some just won't dry out enough in the micorowave, dry them in a frying pan slowly over low heat.
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21
Let's try brewing some.
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22
The color was quite light this time, but the flavor was strong.
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23
Cold iced green tea is delicious too.
