Thé Vert Menthe Recipe

Warm teapot and rinse tea

Pour about 1/2 cup of the boiling water into a heatproof teapot to warm it; swirl then discard the water. Add the 2 tsp green tea to the teapot and pour in 1/4 cup of boiling water to lightly rinse the leaves. Swirl for 10–15 seconds, then carefully pour off and discard that rinse water to remove dust and some bitterness.

Add mint and sugar

Place the 1 bunch (about 8–12 large sprigs) of fresh spearmint into the teapot with the rinsed tea leaves. Add the 3 tablespoons granulated sugar into the pot, distributing it around the leaves and stems so it dissolves evenly.

Steep with boiling water

Pour the remaining boiling water (approximately 3 3/4 cups) into the teapot over the tea, mint, and sugar. Stir gently with a spoon to help dissolve the sugar. Cover the teapot and let steep for 3 to 5 minutes depending on how strong and aromatic you prefer the tea (3 min for lighter, 5 min for stronger).

Mix and aerate (traditional pour)

Before serving, to blend flavors and slightly aerate the tea (a traditional Moroccan technique), pour a small glassful from the teapot into a separate glass, then pour it back into the teapot from a height of a few inches. Repeat this transfer once or twice. This helps dissolve remaining sugar and mellows bitterness.

Strain and pour

Pour the tea into small glasses, using a tea strainer if desired to catch loose leaves and stems. If you prefer stronger mint aroma, add an extra fresh mint sprig to each glass. Optionally add a lemon slice to a cup for a citrus twist.

Serve immediately while hot. Tea keeps warm in the covered teapot for about 20–30 minutes; reheat gently if needed (do not boil).