Preparing a delicious cup of loose-leaf tea is all in the details. The amount of tea, water temperature, and steep time all have a direct effect on the end flavor and overall drinking experience. The tea’s packaging is the best source for recommended steeping instructions. Follow these steps for a single-serve cup of hot tea or iced tea. For larger vessels such as a teapot, scale tea and water quantities to accommodate the desired amount of servings.
Supplies Needed for Brewing Tea
The instructions below are for a single-serve cup of hot tea or iced tea. For larger vessels such as a teapot, scale tea and water quantities to accommodate the desired amount of servings.
Supplies
kettle*
water, preferably freshly drawn
loose leaf tea of choice
standard measuring Tablespoon or teaspoon
brewing vessel
infuser or strainer
mug or drinking vessel
*Recommended: kettle with exact temperature capability or digital thermometer
How to Brew Hot Tea
1. Pour fresh water into a kettle and heat to exact temperature stated on tea package instructions.
2. While water is heating, dose the amount of tea (per tea package instructions) directly in your chosen brewing vessel or in an infuser set inside the brewing vessel.
3. Pour 8 ounces of heated water over the tea leaves and cover.
4. Steep according to tea package instructions. For best results, use a timer.
5. After steeping for the instructed time, separate the liquid from the tea leaves by removing the infuser or pouring the liquid into your chosen mug or drinking vessel through a strainer (see note) and enjoy.
How to Make Iced Tea
To prepare iced tea using the hot brew method, follow the same instructions as above except for two key differences:
- Steep the tea in half the amount of water (4 ounces) to make a concentrate.
- After separating the infusion from the tea leaves, add 4 ounces of cold/ice water to the hot tea concentrate to cool it down. Add ice and enjoy.
Note: For all true tea categories (green, white, oolong, black, pu-erh) it is crucial to separate the tea leaves from the infusion (also known as liquor). As long as the leaves are in contact with water, they will continue to infuse and over-extract their tannins, resulting in astringency.