Tea Recipe

Measure water

Pour 4 cups (about 1 liter) of fresh, cold water into a kettle or small saucepan.

Heat water to correct temperature

Bring the water to a near-boil. For black tea or herbal tea, heat to a rolling boil (100°C / 212°F). For green or white tea, heat to around 175–185°F (80–85°C) — remove from heat just before boiling. If using spices (cinnamon, ginger, cardamom), add them to the water before bringing to a boil to extract flavor (simmer 3–5 minutes).

Add tea to teapot or infuser

Place 2 tablespoons of loose tea into an infuser or teapot, or use 2 tea bags for 4 cups of water. If you prefer a milder brew use 1 tablespoon or 1 tea bag; for stronger, increase slightly.

Pour water over tea

Pour the hot water over the tea leaves or tea bags in the teapot or cup. Stir gently to ensure leaves are submerged and heat is distributed.

Steep for appropriate time

Steep according to tea type: black tea 3–5 minutes; green tea 2–3 minutes; white tea 3–4 minutes; herbal tisanes 5–7 minutes. Taste near the lower end of the range and extend if you prefer stronger flavor. Remove tea bags or strain out leaves when finished steeping to avoid bitterness.

Add milk and/or sweetener (optional)

If using milk, warm 1/2 cup lightly (optional) and add to taste to the brewed tea (about 1–2 tablespoons per cup). Stir in sweetener (approximately 2 teaspoons total for the pot) to taste. If serving lemon, add a slice to each cup instead of milk.

Add fresh herbs or garnishes

If using mint leaves, bruise them slightly and add to the teapot or individual cups. Place lemon slices or a cinnamon stick in cups as garnish if desired.

Serve

Pour the tea into 4 teacups and serve immediately while hot. Offer additional sweetener, milk, or lemon on the side so guests can adjust to taste.