Tea Recipe

Time10m

Serves4

Make 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
Measure
Measure 4 cups of fresh cold water. If using loose-leaf tea, measure 2 teaspoons of black tea leaves (one teaspoon per cup). If using tea bags, use 2 standard bags.
2
Heat water
Pour the measured water into a kettle or saucepan. Heat until it reaches a rolling boil (about 212°F / 100°C). For a slightly lighter cup, heat to just before boiling (around 200–205°F).
3
Steep tea
Place the tea leaves in a teapot with an infuser or add the tea bags to the pot or cups. Pour the hot water over the tea. Steep black tea for 3–5 minutes depending on desired strength. For a milder cup, steep 3 minutes; for stronger, up to 5 minutes.
4
Remove leaves / bags
After steeping, remove the tea bags or strain out the loose leaves to prevent bitterness.

5
Sweeten
If using sugar, honey, or other sweetener, add 2 teaspoons of sugar or 1 teaspoon honey per 4-cup batch (adjust to taste). Stir until dissolved.
6
Add milk or lemon
If you prefer milk tea, add 1/4 cup milk to the pot (or 1–2 tablespoons per cup) and stir. If you prefer lemon, add lemon slices to the cups (do not add milk and lemon together).
7
Garnish and serve
Pour the tea into cups. Garnish with mint leaves or an additional lemon slice if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
8
Iced variation (optional)
To make iced tea, let the brewed tea cool to room temperature, sweeten while warm if desired, then transfer to a pitcher and refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice with lemon and mint.