Sep 01 2026

Hot Tea Recipe

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

Equipment

Method

Prepare Water and Mug

  1. 1

    Measure water and heat

    Pour 2 cups (about 480 ml) of fresh cold water into a kettle or saucepan. Heat the water until it reaches a full rolling boil (for black tea) or just before boiling (~190–200°F / 88–93°C for green tea).

  2. 2

    While the water is heating, place a mug on a heatproof surface and set out your tea bag and any optional add-ins (honey, sugar, lemon, milk).

Steep Tea

  1. 3

    Steeping

    Pour the hot water into the mug. Immediately add the tea bag to the hot water. Steep for the appropriate time: 3–5 minutes for black tea, 2–3 minutes for green tea, and 5–7 minutes for most herbal teas. Use a timer to avoid oversteeping.

  2. 4

    If using loose leaf tea, use an infuser or strain leaves after the recommended steep time.

Finish and Serve

  1. 5

    Remove tea bag and season

    After steeping, remove the tea bag (or infuser). Stir in 1 teaspoon honey or sugar to taste if desired. Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or cream for a milk tea, or squeeze a lemon wedge for citrus flavor. Taste and adjust sweetener or milk as preferred.

  2. 6

    Let the tea cool for a minute so it is safe to drink. Serve hot.

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