Hot Tea Recipe

Boil water

Bring 2 cups water to a rolling boil in a kettle or small saucepan over high heat (about 3–5 minutes).

Steep tea

Pour boiling water into a mug over 1 black tea bag (or 1 tsp loose-leaf tea in an infuser). Cover the mug or place a saucer over it to retain heat and steep: 3–4 minutes for medium strength, 4–5 minutes for stronger tea.

Remove the tea bag or infuser after steeping to avoid over-brewing and bitterness.

Add flavor and sweeten

While the tea is hot, stir in 1 tsp honey or sugar until dissolved. Add 1 tablespoon milk if you prefer a creamier cup; add milk slowly to reach desired color and taste.

Citrus or spice variations

For lemon tea: squeeze 1 lemon slice into the tea and drop the slice into the mug or discard. For ginger: add 2–3 thin slices of fresh ginger to the boiling water before pouring, or steep a slice with the tea bag. For cinnamon: add a cinnamon stick to the boiling water and remove when serving.

Taste and adjust: add more sweetener, milk, or lemon as desired. Serve immediately.