Restaurants›Blue Willow Restaurant & Gift Shop›Hot Tea Recipe

Hot Tea Recipe

Inspired by Blue Willow Restaurant & Gift Shop
Time10m
Serves2

Make Hot Tea Recipe in just 10m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Tea Base

Optional Add-ins

Method

Brew Tea

1

Boil water

Pour 2 cups of fresh cold water into a kettle or small saucepan. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat (about 3–5 minutes depending on stove).

2

Add aromatics (optional)

If using fresh ginger or whole spices, add them to the water as it comes to a boil so they infuse. Simmer with the boiling water for 1 minute to release flavor.

3

Steep tea

Remove the pot from heat or reduce to a gentle simmer and add 2 teaspoons of loose tea (or 2 tea bags). Let the tea steep for 3–5 minutes depending on desired strength (3 minutes = light, 5 minutes = strong).

4

Strain or remove bags

If using loose tea or added spices, strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve into a cup. If using tea bags, lift and gently squeeze them against the side of the pot or cup, then discard.

Finish & Serve

5

Sweeten and season: Taste the brewed tea. Add sugar or honey (start with 1 teaspoon) and stir until dissolved. Add milk (1/4 cup) if making milk tea, or add 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice for a bright finish (do not add lemon if milk is used).

6

Adjust and serve: Adjust sweetness and milk to taste. Pour the tea into a heatproof cup and serve immediately. Optionally garnish with a thin slice of lemon or a cinnamon stick.