Pure Leaf Black Tea Recipe

Boil water

Bring 4 cups (about 950 ml) of fresh filtered water to a rolling boil in a kettle or saucepan.

Steep tea

Place 4 teaspoons of loose-leaf black tea (or 4 black tea bags) into a heatproof pitcher or teapot. Pour the boiling water over the tea. Steep for 3 to 5 minutes depending on desired strength (3 minutes for lighter, 5 minutes for stronger). Avoid steeping longer than 5 minutes to prevent excessive bitterness.

Remove leaves/bags

After steeping, strain out the loose leaves or remove and discard the tea bags. Gently press tea bags against the side with a spoon if using bags and you prefer a stronger brew (optional).

If making sweet tea, while the tea is still hot add 4 teaspoons granulated sugar (or 4 tablespoons simple syrup or 2 tablespoons honey) and stir until fully dissolved. Adjust sweetness to taste. If you prefer unsweetened, skip this step.

If using granulated sugar and you plan to serve iced tea, dissolve the sugar in about 1/4 cup of the hot brewed tea first (or use simple syrup) to ensure it blends smoothly when chilled.

Allow the tea to cool at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes, then place the pitcher in the refrigerator until chilled, about 1 to 2 hours. For faster cooling, pour the tea into a shallow container and refrigerate or add ice directly (see note).

To serve iced: Fill glasses with ice (about 1/2 to 1 cup per glass). Pour chilled tea over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices and mint sprigs if desired.

To serve hot: Pour freshly brewed tea into cups and serve immediately. Add sweetener while hot if desired and stir to dissolve.