Tea Recipe
Make 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 Additions
Method
Tea Base
- 1
Boil Water
Pour 2 cups of fresh cold water into a small saucepan or kettle. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- 2
Steep Tea
If using loose leaves, place 2 teaspoons of black tea in an infuser or teapot; if using tea bags, add 1–2 tea bags. Pour the just-boiled water over the tea and cover or place a lid on the pot to keep heat in. Steep for 3 to 5 minutes depending on desired strength (3 minutes for lighter, 5 for stronger).
- 3
Remove Leaves
After steeping, remove the tea leaves or tea bags promptly to avoid bitterness. Gently press a tea bag or lift the infuser to drain; do not squeeze aggressively.
Optional Additions
- 4
Sweeten
If you want sugar, stir in 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar while the tea is hot so it dissolves fully. Alternatively, add honey to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon).
- 5
Add Milk
If adding milk, warm 1/4 cup milk separately or pour cold milk directly into the hot tea. Stir to combine. Adjust amount to taste. For a milkier tea (like British or chai-style), add more milk in 1–2 tablespoon increments.
- 6
Add Lemon or Spices
For lemon tea, add 1 slice of lemon to the brewed tea and do not add milk (lemon curdles milk). For spiced tea, add one crushed cardamom pod, a small slice of fresh ginger, or a 1–2-inch piece of cinnamon stick to the water before boiling; strain out with the tea leaves when serving.
- 7
Serve
Pour the finished tea into a cup. Taste and adjust sweetener or milk as needed. Serve immediately while hot.