[SwellJoe]

I've tried all of the gunpowder/pearl teas at the two asian markets on Castro, and have been underwhelmed. The tea tends to be too bitter and the Jasmine overpowering. The price also offends my delicate sensibilities--between 9 and 18 bucks for one tin, which makes twenty to thirty cups of tea. My girlfriend drinks Mighty Leaf Earl Grey, so I can become accustomed to spending crazy prices for tea, but only if I enjoy it more than the cheaper alternative.

[rms]

My supply of Jasmine pearls came from a trip to Beijing a while ago... the department store had two varieties of Jasmine pearls; I got the better ones. I don't remember exactly how much it was, but it was definitely a lot less than a dollar an ounce.

Especially when cost is a concern, you can reuse the leaves at least two or three times. The only problem is figuring out how to store the wet leaves. I never figured that out, in fact.

Enjoy your tea, the convenience of bags is enough that it's really rare for me to actually make it from leaves.