Hot Tea Recipe

Boil water

Pour 2 cups of fresh cold water into a kettle or small saucepan. Heat until it reaches a rolling boil (about 212°F / 100°C) for black tea or just below boiling (~175–185°F / 80–85°C) for green tea. If using an electric kettle with temperature settings, select the appropriate temperature for the tea type.

Steep tea

Place 1 tea bag in a mug or teapot. Pour the hot water over the tea bag. Steep for the appropriate time: 3–5 minutes for black tea, 2–3 minutes for green tea, or 5–7 minutes for most herbal teas. Steep longer for stronger flavor, shorter for milder.

Remove tea bag

After steeping, remove and discard the tea bag (or strain out loose leaves). Gently press the tea bag against the side of the mug with a spoon if you want a slightly stronger cup, then discard.

Add sweetener

If you want your tea sweetened, stir in 1 tsp sugar, honey, or syrup while the tea is still hot so it dissolves completely. Adjust to taste.

Add milk or cream

If using milk or cream, pour in about 2 tablespoons and stir. For a creamier cup, heat the milk slightly before adding or use more to taste. Milk is commonly paired with black teas; avoid adding milk to tea with lemon (it may curdle).

Citrus or fresh flavors

For a bright note, squeeze or drop in a lemon slice. For ginger-infused tea, add 3 g (about 3 thin slices) of fresh ginger to the mug before pouring hot water, or simmer ginger in the water for 3–5 minutes before steeping the tea. Add a cinnamon stick or 4 fresh mint leaves while steeping for additional aroma and flavor. Remove any whole spices or herbs before drinking.

Final taste check

Taste the tea and adjust sweetener, milk, or lemon as desired. Let cool briefly if too hot, then serve.