How To Prepare The Perfect Cup Of Tea

I love my teas, hot or cold! To take the full benefit and prepare a great tasting cup, there are few guidelines to keep in mind that I’m going to share with you today. Here we go.

Different Types Of Tea

There are many types of tea available on the market. True teas – green, black, white, oolong – all come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. All other teas that originate from another plant – like chamomile, ginger, rooibos – are called herbal teas or tisanes.

To get the full benefits and best flavor they all should be handled differently regarding water temperature, steeping time, and the amount of the leaves used.

FYI: Fermentation Determines Flavor, Aroma, and Color Of True Teas

The less the leaves are fermented (oxidized), the lighter its aroma and taste, and the more therapeutic compounds stay intact. White and green tea are the least oxidized, hence its light, yellowish tea color.

General Tea Tips

• Use cold, fresh water for boiling
• Pour the water over the leaves, not the other way around
• If you’re using tea bags, follow steeping times on the package
• Don’t squeeze tea bags after steeping (best use loose organic leaves)
• While steeping, cover cup or pot to keep the flavors in
• Remove leaves after steeping
• Store tea in an airtight, dark container. Tea oxidizes further when exposed to sunlight and it can absorb smells and moisture from your kitchen.

Tips To Make The Perfect Cup Of True Tea

Like mentioned above, each of the true teas should be handled in a different way. Here are steeping times and water temperatures for the most popular types of tea.

White tea: steep 1 teaspoon for 7 to 9 minutes. Water temperature should be between 175-185°F (80-85°C).

Green tea: steep 1 teaspoon for 3 to 4 minutes. Water temperature should be between 150-175°F (65-80°C).

Oolong tea: steep ½ teaspoon for 3 to 6 minutes. Water temperature should be around 195°F (90°C).

Black tea: steep ½ teaspoon for 3 minutes. Water temperature should be around 205°F (96°C).

Red tea: steep ½ teaspoon for 3 to 7 minutes. Water temperature should be around 205°F (96°C).

Yellow tea: steep 1 teaspoon for 3 minutes. Water temperature should be around 195°F (90°C).

ALSO READ:

8 Impressive Health Benefits Of Green Tea (With Green Tea Smoothie Recipe)

Benefits of Herbal Tea: 10 Healing Herbs You Should Know About

Refreshing Iced Lemon Tea