Tea Recipe

Bring water to a rolling boil

Pour 4 cups of cold water into a kettle or saucepan. Place over high heat and bring to a rolling boil (large bubbles continuously breaking the surface). This should take about 5–7 minutes depending on your stove.

Pre-warm teapot or cups (optional)

While the water is heating, optionally pour a little boiling water into the teapot or cups, swirl, and discard. This keeps the brewed tea hot longer and prevents temperature shock.

Add tea

If using loose tea: measure 2 teaspoons of black tea leaves (approximately 2 tsp per 4 cups) into an infuser or directly into the teapot. If using tea bags: add 2 tea bags to the teapot or into individual cups.

Pour hot water over tea and steep

When the water reaches a rolling boil, remove from heat and immediately pour the hot water over the tea leaves or bags. Cover the teapot or cup and let steep for 3–5 minutes depending on desired strength: 3 minutes for light, 4 minutes for medium, 5 minutes for strong. If using loose tea without an infuser, strain after steeping.

Prepare milk and sweetener (optional)

If you prefer milk tea, warm 1 cup of milk gently in a small saucepan over low heat until steaming (do not boil) or heat briefly in the microwave (about 30–45 seconds). Stir in sugar or sweetener to taste (start with 2 teaspoons and adjust).

Combine and serve

Remove tea bags or strain out loose leaves. For plain black tea: pour the brewed tea into cups. For milk tea: add warmed milk to the cups to reach desired color and taste (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup milk per cup of tea). Add sugar if you haven't already. For lemon tea: squeeze a lemon wedge into each cup instead of milk. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Adjust and enjoy

Taste and adjust sweetness, milk, or lemon. Serve immediately while hot.