Restaurants›Sterling Market›Hot Tea Recipe

Hot Tea Recipe

Inspired by Sterling Market
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.

Tea and Flavorings

Milk (optional)

Method

Prepare and Steep

1

Heat water

Pour 2 cups of cold water into a small saucepan or kettle. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches a gentle boil (approximately 2–4 minutes depending on stove).

2

Add aromatics

If using fresh ginger and/or cloves, add the ginger slices and whole cloves to the water just before it reaches a boil. Allow the water to come to a boil with the aromatics for 20–30 seconds to extract flavor.

3

Steep tea

Remove the pan from heat. Place 1 black tea bag into the hot water (or 1 teaspoon loose-leaf tea in an infuser). Cover the pan or place a lid on the mug to trap steam and steep for 3–5 minutes depending on desired strength (3 minutes for a lighter cup, up to 5 for robust).

Finish and Serve

4

Strain and sweeten

Remove the tea bag (or strain out loose leaves, ginger and cloves) and discard. Stir in 1 teaspoon honey and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice while the tea is hot so they dissolve and integrate.

5

Add milk (optional)

If you prefer milk in your tea, add 1 tablespoon milk or dairy-free alternative and stir. Taste and adjust: add more honey for sweetness or more lemon for brightness if desired.

6

Serve

Pour the hot tea into a cup if not already in one. Let cool for a minute to a comfortable drinking temperature and enjoy. Reheat gently if needed.