Pour 3 cups of cold water into a kettle or small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. For green and white teas, remove from heat just before a rolling boil (about 175–185°F / 80–85°C) to avoid bitterness; for black or herbal teas, bring to a full boil (212°F / 100°C).

Infuse optional spices

If using fresh ginger, a cinnamon stick, or peppercorns, add them to the water as it heats. Let them simmer for 1–2 minutes to release flavor. Remove the pan from heat when desired strength is reached.

Steep the Tea

Place 2 tea bags (or equivalent loose-leaf tea in an infuser) into a teapot or heatproof mug. Pour the hot water over the tea immediately, ensuring the tea is fully submerged.

Steep for the appropriate time based on tea type: black tea 3–5 minutes, green tea 2–3 minutes, herbal tea 5–7 minutes. Adjust steeping time to taste: shorter for milder tea, longer for stronger.

If you added spices to the water, you may choose to strain them out now or leave them in for continued infusion. Remove tea bags or infuser after steeping to prevent bitterness.

Finish and Serve

Taste the tea and add optional sweeteners or modifiers as desired: 1 tablespoon honey or 1 teaspoon sugar for sweetness, 2 tablespoons milk or cream for creaminess, or a slice of lemon for brightness. Stir gently to combine.

Pour the hot tea into cups. If used, discard cinnamon stick, ginger slices, peppercorns, and used tea bags. Serve immediately while hot.