Hot Tea Recipe

Time10m

Serves1

Make Hot Tea Recipe in just 10m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

1
Heat water
Pour 2 cups of cold water into a kettle or small saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches a gentle boil (around 212°F / 100°C). For green or delicate teas, remove from heat just before a full boil (around 175–185°F / 80–85°C) to avoid bitterness.
2
Prepare optional spices/ginger
If using fresh ginger or whole spices, add them to the saucepan or place them in your teapot or cup before adding water so they can infuse. Use 1 tsp thinly sliced ginger or a single cinnamon stick/cardamom pod.
3
Steep tea
Place 1 teabag (black, green or herbal) into a heat-safe cup or teapot. Pour the hot water over the teabag and any spices. Steep according to tea type: black tea 3–5 minutes, green tea 2–3 minutes, herbal tea 5–7 minutes. Adjust steep time to taste for strength.
4
Sweeten and finish
Remove the teabag (and strain out ginger/spices if used). Stir in 1 tablespoon honey or sugar until dissolved. Add 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice if desired. If you prefer a creamy tea, stir in 2 tablespoons milk or non-dairy milk and taste; add more if you like it creamier.

5
Garnish with a lemon slice and/or a sprig of fresh mint if desired. Serve immediately while hot.