Tea Recipe

Tea

1. 1

   Boil water

   Measure 2 cups of fresh cold water and pour into a small kettle or saucepan. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat (about 3–5 minutes depending on stove and amount).

2. 2

   Preheat teapot/cup (optional)

   If desired, pour a little of the hot water into the teapot or cup, swirl to warm the vessel, then discard that water. This helps keep the brewed tea hotter.

3. 3

   Steep the tea

   Place 1 tablespoon loose black tea (or 1 tea bag) into an infuser or directly into the teapot/cup. Pour the just-boiled water over the tea. Cover and steep for 3–5 minutes: 3 minutes for a lighter cup, 4 minutes for medium, 5 minutes for a stronger cup. If using green or delicate tea, steep 2–3 minutes with water cooled slightly (about 175–185°F / 80–85°C).

4. 4

   Strain and serve

   If you used loose tea directly in the pot, strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh strainer. If you used an infuser or tea bag, remove it. Taste the tea.

5. 5

   Adjust and finish

   Add milk (about 1 tablespoon) if you prefer milky tea. Add sugar (about 1 teaspoon) or honey (about 1 teaspoon) to sweeten, stirring until dissolved. If you prefer lemon, add a slice or a squeeze of fresh lemon instead of milk. Adjust quantities to taste.

6. 6

   Serve

   Serve immediately while hot. Optionally accompany with biscuits or a small snack.