Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsPrep & PastryWhite Tea Recipe

White Tea Recipe

Inspired by Prep & Pastry
Time8m
Serves1

Make White Tea Recipe in just 8m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Tea

Optional Additions

Method

Tea

  1. 1

    Measure the tea

    Place 2 tsp loose-leaf white tea into a tea infuser, teapot strainer, or directly into a teacup/teapot if you will strain later.

  2. 2

    Heat the water

    Heat 240 ml filtered water to 75–80°C (170–175°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, bring water nearly to a simmer and let it sit 1–2 minutes to cool before pouring.

  3. 3

    Pour and cover

    Pour the heated water directly over the tea leaves. Cover the teapot or cup with a lid or small saucer to retain heat and aromas.

  4. 4

    Steep

    Steep for 2–4 minutes depending on strength preference. 3 minutes is a balanced default—shorter for lighter, more delicate flavor; longer for richer body.

  5. 5

    Remove the leaves

    Remove the infuser or strain the tea leaves out immediately after steeping to avoid bitterness from oversteeping.

Optional Additions

  1. 6

    Add honey (optional)

    If using honey, add 1 tsp (or to taste) to the hot tea and stir until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.

  2. 7

    Add lemon (optional)

    If using lemon, squeeze a little juice from 1 slice into the tea and drop the slice in for aroma. Add after steeping; lemon can brighten the delicate tea but may mask subtle florals if overused.

  3. 8

    Add mint (optional)

    If using fresh mint, lightly clap or bruise the 3 leaves between your palms to release oils, then add to the cup or teapot. Let sit 30–60 seconds to impart aroma, or leave in while sipping for stronger mint flavor.

  4. 9

    Serve

    Give the tea a final gentle stir, remove any used lemon slice or mint stems if desired, and serve immediately while warm.

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