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Ingredients
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Tea & Water
Optional Add-ins (per cup)
Equipment
Method
Tea & Water
Measure water
Pour 24 fl oz (about 3 cups) of fresh, cold filtered water into the kettle. This yields four 6 fl oz cups of tea.
Heat water
Bring the water to a full boil (212°F / 100°C). For a slightly mellower cup you can remove from heat just as it reaches a rolling boil.
Pre-warm teapot and cups
Pour a small amount of the hot water into the teapot and teacups, swish briefly, then discard. This helps keep the brewed tea at an even temperature.
Steeping
Add water and steep
Pour the boiling water directly over the tea leaves in the teapot. Cover and steep for 3–5 minutes: 3 minutes for brisk, lighter brew; 4 minutes for balanced flavor; 5 minutes for robust, full-bodied cup.
Taste and adjust
After 3 minutes, taste one cup. If it needs more body, let it steep toward 5 minutes. Avoid steeping longer than 5 minutes to prevent excessive bitterness and astringency.
Strain
When the desired steep time is reached, remove the infuser or pour the tea through a fine strainer into the warmed teapot or directly into cups to stop extraction.
Finish & Serve
Serve
Pour into warmed teacups (about 6 fl oz each). Serve immediately to enjoy the tea at its peak aroma and flavor.
Storage (leftovers)
If you have leftover brewed tea, cool to room temperature, refrigerate in a covered container and use within 24 hours. Reheat gently or serve chilled over ice.