Hot Tea Recipe
Make Hot Tea Recipe in just 8m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Tea Base
Optional Add-ins
Method
Tea Base
Heat water
Pour 2 cups of fresh cold water into a kettle or small saucepan. Bring the water to a near rolling boil (about 200–212°F / 93–100°C).
Steep tea
Place 1 teaspoon of loose black tea (or 1 standard tea bag) into a teapot or cup. Pour the hot water over the tea, covering it fully. Let the tea steep for 3–5 minutes depending on desired strength (3 minutes for mild, 4 minutes for medium, 5 minutes for strong). Avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness.
Remove tea leaves
After steeping, remove the tea bag or strain out the loose leaves. Gently press the tea bag once against the cup edge with a spoon if you want a little extra strength, then discard the bag or leaves.
Optional Add-ins
Sweeten: If you like your tea sweet, add 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar or 1 teaspoon honey while the tea is still hot so it dissolves easily. Stir until fully dissolved.
Milk: For milky tea, add 2 tablespoons of milk or non-dairy milk. Stir and taste; add an extra tablespoon if you prefer creamier tea.
Citrus or herbs: For a bright finish add a slice of lemon or 3 fresh mint leaves. If adding lemon do not add milk (it may curdle). Gently bruise mint leaves before adding to release flavor.