Pour filtered water into the kettle and bring to a near-boil. For black tea, heat to a full rolling boil (about 212°F / 100°C). If using green or white tea, heat to 175–185°F (80–85°C) — bring to a boil and let sit 1–2 minutes to cool slightly before pouring.

Pre-warm teapot or cup

Pour a small amount (approx. 1–2 oz) of the hot water into the teapot or cup and swish briefly, then discard. This warms the vessel and helps maintain steeping temperature.

Measure tea

Place 2 teaspoons of loose leaf tea into the infuser or teapot (adjust to 1 tsp per 8 oz for lighter strength or up to 3 tsp for stronger).

Pour water and steep

Pour 8 oz of the hot water over the tea leaves in the infuser or teapot. For black tea, steep 3–5 minutes depending on desired strength. For green tea, steep 2–3 minutes. For oolong, steep 3–4 minutes. Avoid oversteeping to prevent bitterness.

Remove leaves

After the appropriate steep time, lift out the infuser or strain the tea leaves from the liquid to stop the infusion.

Finish and serve

Taste the tea. Add honey or sugar (start with 1 tsp) and/or milk (1 tbsp) if desired, stirring gently. Alternatively add a lemon wedge to taste. Serve immediately in an 8 oz cup.

Cleanup

Discard used tea leaves (compost if available). Rinse the infuser, teapot, and cup with warm water and wash as usual to prevent stale flavors.