Tea Recipe

Tea Preparation

1. 1

   Boil water

   Measure 2 cups of fresh cold water and pour into a small saucepan or kettle. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat (about 3–5 minutes depending on heat source). If using ginger, add the sliced ginger to the water before it reaches a full boil so the flavor infuses.

2. 2

   Add tea

   Remove the boiling water from heat or reduce to a simmer. Add 1 teaspoon of loose black tea leaves (or one tea bag) to the hot water. If using a teapot, place leaves in an infuser. Cover or leave a lid on the pan to retain heat.

3. 3

   Steep

   Steep the tea for 3 to 5 minutes depending on desired strength (3 minutes for lighter, 5 minutes for strong). Do not steep much longer than 5 minutes to avoid excessive bitterness.

4. 4

   Strain

   If you used loose tea, remove the infuser or strain the tea into a cup to remove leaves. If you used a tea bag, lift and gently squeeze the bag against the side of the cup with a spoon, then discard the bag.

5. 5

   Sweeten and finish

   Stir in 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar (or 1 teaspoon honey) while the tea is hot so it dissolves fully. If you prefer milk tea, add 1 tablespoon of milk and stir. For a lemon variation, add a slice of lemon instead of milk. Taste and adjust sweetener, milk, or lemon to preference.

6. 6

   Serve the tea immediately while hot. Enjoy.