Brewing loose leaf tea is both an art and a science, but once you master the basics, you’ll be able to craft the perfect cup every time. Here are some essential tips and techniques to help you enjoy the full flavor and benefits of your favorite tea blends.
1. Choose the Right Tools
- Tea Infuser or Strainer: Loose leaf tea needs room to expand and release its full flavor. A roomy infuser or strainer works best.
- Teapot: For larger batches, a teapot with a built-in strainer is ideal for steeping multiple servings.
2. Use Fresh Water
- Always use fresh, filtered water. Water that has been sitting too long or re-boiled can lose oxygen, resulting in a flat-tasting brew.
3. Measure the Tea
- 1 tsp of tea per cup (8 oz) is a good rule of thumb for most loose leaf teas, though you can adjust based on personal taste.
4. Know Your Steeping Times and Temperatures
- Herbal Teas (e.g., Egyptian Chamomile, Jet Lag Awake Herbal): 5-7 minutes at 200°F (just under boiling).
- Floral Teas (e.g., Lavender Lemonade): 3-5 minutes at 180°F.
- Energy Teas (e.g., Wellness Energy): 5 minutes at 200°F.
5. Steep, Don’t Oversteep
- Over-steeping can lead to bitterness. Use a timer to avoid accidentally leaving the tea too long.