Hot Green Tea Recipe

Heat water

Bring fresh cold water to a temperature of about 175°F to 185°F (80°C to 85°C). If you don't have a thermometer, bring water to a gentle simmer and let it sit 1 minute to cool slightly.

Warm teapot/cup

Pour a small amount of the hot water into the teapot or cup you'll use, swirl to warm the vessel, then discard that water.

Measure tea

Place 2 tsp of loose-leaf green tea into an infuser, teapot, or directly into the cup if using a fine strainer.

Steep

Pour 12 oz (about 350 ml) of the heated water over the leaves. Steep for 1.5 to 2.5 minutes depending on the tea and your taste: shorter time for more delicate, vegetal notes; longer for fuller flavor. Avoid steeping longer than 3 minutes to prevent bitterness.

Strain and serve

Remove the leaves by lifting out the infuser or straining the tea into a cup. Pour immediately to stop extraction and preserve the bright green, fresh flavor.

If using honey or agave: stir 1 tsp into the hot tea until dissolved. Add less or more to taste.

If using lemon: add 1 tsp fresh lemon juice after steeping. Add gradually and taste; lemon brightens flavor but can mute delicate notes if overused.

If using ginger: add thin slices to the teapot or cup before pouring hot water. Let ginger steep with the tea; for a stronger ginger note, briefly simmer slices in the water before steeping tea.

If using mint: slap mint leaves between your palms to release oils and add to the cup after steeping, allowing 30–60 seconds to infuse for a fresh finish.

Combine enhancements as desired: honey + lemon for a soothing hot drink, or ginger + honey for a warming, throat-soothing cup. Adjust quantities to taste.