The Right Brewing Method for the Right Tea
Black and Oolong Teas
- Start with cold, clean, non-chlorinated water to enrich the subtle flavors of the tea.
- Bring the water as close to 212 degrees Fahrenheit (the boiling point) as possible.
- Whether loose-leaf tea or filter bags are used, make sure the tea is steeped in the water for a full three to five minutes. Many teas will give you the optimum times on the packaging.
Green Tea
- Start with cold, clean, non-chlorinated water to enrich the subtle flavors of the tea.
- Bring water to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not boil.
- Steep tea for 3 minutes.
Herbal Infusions
- Use cold, non-chlorinated water.
- Bring water to 212 degrees (boiling).
- Infuse for approximately 4-5 minutes.
Brewing Tips
- When using loose-leaf teas, it is best to use a permanent filter made from stainless steel or paper filter bags. Contrary to popular belief, tea balls are not a very good way to brew loose-leaf tea. The tea is too tightly packed and the water is not able to run through the leaves.
- Never add the tea after the water. Make sure that the tea is in the cup or teapot ready and waiting for the hot water to be poured over it. This will insure proper steeping.
- Do not oversteep. This results in bitter, unpleasant tea. Some people may prefer their herbal teas steeped longer, but black and green teas loose their delicate flavors when steeped too long.
- Loose leaf is the preferred way to make tea, but if a filter bag must be used, make sure to choose a brand that makes a point of using larger leaves and more of them. This will produce a higher quality cup of tea.
