Brewing your tea the correct way can make the world of a difference in both taste and experience. It's also very simple! Before you enjoy your next cup of tea, consider these quick brew tips below.
1. START USING BETTER QUALITY WATER.
98 percent of a cup of tea is water. So, will tap water work? Yes, however, steeping your tea leaves with filtered or spring water is the preferred method. Springwater has the highest tea brewing recommendation due to its perfect pH level. You’ll receive a clearer flavor and a better overall cup of tea.
2. MICROWAVING YOUR TEA
Tea connoisseurs around the world shed a tear for every second your cup of tea spins round in the microwave. The hot, fast, and uneven temp increase of a microwave oven is too harsh for the delicate leaves. It is better to slowly pour hot water over your tea leaves, so that they can steep slowly and release their unique flavors over time.
3. ADDING TOO MANY INGREDIENTS TO YOUR TEA
We all have our tea preferences. Sugar, spice, lemon, milk, cream… while adding these ingredients to your tea won’t take away from the health benefits (although, they may add more calories), they will affect the natural flavor and experience of the tea. Many believe that these ingredients are being added to correct the flavor imbalances we receive from bagged teas. If you’re going to add these ingredients to a quality sourced loose leaf tea, it’s recommended to brew and taste the tea by itself without and additives first. That way, you’ll get the full flavor experience of the tea as it is meant to be.
4. INCORRECTLY STORING TEA
The best way to store your tea is in an airtight container, in a cool & dry place, and away from moisture and other odors. If tea is exposed to air, the leaves can quickly lose flavor and absorb other odors.
5. BREWING ALL TEA THE SAME WAY
White, green, oolong, black, herbal… different types of tea will infuse differently. See the recommended instructions below.
White - Steep for 1-5 minutes in 175° F
Green - Steep for 1-3 minutes in 160-180° F
Black - Steep for 3-5 minutes in 190-212° F
Oolong - Steep for 1-5 minutes in 180°F to 200°F
