This is a general guideline.
Good quality water and proper brewing time are essential for a flavorful cup of tea.
- Start with a preheated pot or cup (simply fill your teapot or cup with very hot water and let it stand for a moment).
- Use fresh cold water. In areas with poor tap water, use bottled or filtered water. Never use water from the hot water tap. Let the tap water run for a few seconds until it is quite cold; this ensures that the water is aerated (full of oxygen) to release the full flavor of the tea leaves.
- Bring water to a rolling boil. Don't let it boil too long, as it will boil away the flavor releasing oxygen and result in a flat tasting cup of tea. Pour boiling water on tea leaves or tea bag.
- Brew 3 to 5 minutes (for green teas, water should be a bit cooler(65C~80C) and only steep for one to three minutes).
How much loose tea should we use to make a cup of tea?
To make an 8 ounce (250 ml) cup of tea, use the following chart as a guideline. Adjust to taste.
| White tea |
2 tsp. (20 ml) |
| Green tea |
1 tsp. (10 ml) |
| Oolong tea |
1 tsp. (20 ml) |
| Black tea |
1 tsp. (10 ml) |
| Herbal "tea" |
Start with 1 tsp. (1 gram), and increase to desired taste. |
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