Brewing the Perfect Cup of Tea

Brewing the perfect cup of tea involves an intricate water temperature, steeping time, and tea-to-water ratio balance. Let's explore how to brew different types of tea correctly, so you can fully appreciate each variety's unique flavors and aromas.

Black Tea

Black tea, the most widely consumed tea globally, is fully oxidized, giving it a robust flavor. Popular black teas include English Breakfast, Earl Grey, and Assam.

• Water temperature: 200-212°F (93-100°C)
• Steeping time: 3-5 minutes
• Tea-to-water ratio: 1 teaspoon of tea per 8 ounces of water

If adding milk and/or sugar to black tea, increase steep time to 5-7 minutes to retain the flavor profile.

Green Tea

Green tea is known for its delicate flavors and numerous health benefits due to minimal oxidation. Popular varieties include Sencha, Jasmine, and Matcha.

• Water temperature: 160-180°F (71-82°C)
• Steeping time: 2-4 minutes
• Tea-to-water ratio: 1 teaspoon of tea per 8 ounces of water

White Tea

White tea, the least processed tea, is known for its delicate, subtle flavor and high antioxidant content. Popular white teas include Silver Needle, White Peony, and Bai Mudan.

• Water temperature: 160-185°F (71-85°C)
• Steeping time: 3-6 minutes
• Tea-to-water ratio: 1 tablespoon of tea per 8 ounces of water

Oolong Tea

Oolong tea, a partially oxidized tea, offers a unique flavor profile that falls between green and black tea. Famous oolong varieties include Tie Guan Yin, Da Hong Pao, and Dong Ding.

• Water temperature: 180-200°F (82-93°C)
• Steeping time: 2-4 minutes
• Tea-to-water ratio: 1 tablespoon of tea per 8 ounces of water

Some oolong teas come rolled into tiny balls. For those, only use 1 teaspoon of tea per 8 ounces of water.

Herbal Tea

Herbal teas are caffeine-free infusions made from various plants, fruits, and flowers. Popular herbal teas include Chamomile, Peppermint, and Rooibos.

• Water temperature: 200-212°F (93-100°C)
• Steeping time: 3-5 minutes
• Tea-to-water ratio: 1 teaspoon of tea per 8 ounces of water

For highly voluminous herbal teas, use 1 tablespoon of tea per 8 ounces of water.

Blanching Tea

If the brewed tea is too bitter for your taste, blanch your tea leaves for 30 seconds and flush the water before brewing.