Premium Tea Recipe

Preparation

1. 1

   Measure ingredients

   Measure 2 tsp of loose black tea leaves and set aside. Measure 1 cup of fresh cold water and 1 tablespoon of whole milk. Prepare sugar and any optional sweeteners (honey) or lemon.

2. 2

   Heat water

   Pour 1 cup of water into a small saucepan or kettle. Heat to a rolling simmer (about 95–98°C / 203–208°F). If using stovetop, bring to a gentle boil then lower for 10–15 seconds so it isn't a violent boil.

3. 3

   Bloom tea

   Place the 2 tsp loose tea leaves into a teapot or an infuser in your cup. Pour about 2 tablespoons of the hot water over the leaves and swirl gently for 10–15 seconds to rinse and bloom the leaves, then discard that quick rinse water if desired (this step is optional but brightens the infusion).

4. 4

   Steep

   Pour the remaining hot water (about 7–8 tablespoons) over the tea leaves in the teapot or cup so the cup contains 1 full cup of hot liquid total. Cover or place a saucer over the cup and let steep for 3–4 minutes for a robust brew. For a lighter cup steep 2–3 minutes; for stronger steep 4–5 minutes.

5. 5

   Finish with milk and sweetener

   After steeping, remove the infuser or strain the tea leaves. Add 1 tablespoon of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of sugar (or 1 tsp honey) to the hot tea. Stir until sugar or honey dissolves. Taste and adjust: add more milk (up to 2 tbs) or sweetener to your preference.

6. 6

   Optional lemon variation

   If using lemon instead of milk, omit the milk and honey/sugar. Squeeze about 1/4 of a fresh lemon (about 1 tsp juice) into the strained hot tea, stir, and add 1 lemon slice as garnish. Do not add milk if lemon is used (it can curdle).

7. 7

   Serve

   Pour the finished tea into a warmed cup if prepared in a teapot, or serve directly if prepared in the cup. Garnish with a lemon slice or a fresh mint sprig if desired. Serve immediately while hot.