Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsManoli'sLocal Hot Tea Recipe

Local Hot Tea Recipe

Inspired by Manoli's
Time12m
Serves2

Make Local Hot Tea Recipe in just 12m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Tea Base

Aromatics & Sweetener (optional)

Method

Tea Base

  1. 1

    Bring water to boil

    Pour 4 cups fresh cold water into a small pot or kettle. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

  2. 2

    Add tea

    Once boiling, remove pot from direct high heat and add the 4 tsp black tea leaves (or 4 tea bags). Return to a low simmer for 2–3 minutes to begin steeping if using loose leaves.

  3. 3

    Steep

    Turn off the heat and cover the pot. Let the tea steep 3–5 minutes for medium strength; steep 5–7 minutes for stronger, full-bodied tea. If using tea bags, 3–5 minutes is usually sufficient.

Aromatics & Sweetener (optional)

  1. 4

    Simmer aromatics (if using)

    If using ginger, cloves, or cinnamon, add them to the water before it reaches a full boil and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, then proceed to add tea leaves and steep as above. This extracts the flavor into the brew.

  2. 5

    Strain and sweeten

    After steeping, strain out loose leaves and aromatics into a teapot or directly into cups. Stir in 1 tablespoon honey or sugar while the tea is hot so it dissolves evenly.

  3. 6

    Finish and serve

    Add milk or cream if desired (about 1/4 cup divided among servings) and a squeeze of lemon from a wedge if you prefer a citrus note. Serve immediately while hot.

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