Regular Tea Recipe

Boil water and flavorings

Pour 2 cups water into a small saucepan or kettle. Add optional ginger and crushed cardamom if using. Bring water to a rolling simmer/boil over medium-high heat.

Add tea

Once the water is boiling, reduce heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil and add 2 tsp black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags). Stir once to wet the leaves and continue simmering for 2–3 minutes for a standard-strength brew (3–4 minutes for stronger tea).

Add milk and sugar

Pour 1 cup milk into the saucepan with the brewed tea. Add 2 tsp sugar (adjust to taste). Increase heat just until the mixture returns to a gentle simmer — do not allow to boil over. Simmer for 1 minute to meld flavors.

Strain and serve

Turn off the heat. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the tea into two cups to remove tea leaves and any flavoring solids. If using tea bags, remove them before adding milk or after brewing as preferred. Serve immediately. Offer a lemon slice if desired (omit lemon if milk is used).

Adjust tea steeping time, milk amount, and sugar to personal preference. For a lighter tea, use 1 tsp tea leaves or extend water-to-tea ratio. For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk in equal measure.