How To Brew Black Tea

Prep: 2 mins

Cook: 5 mins

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 4 Servings

Learning how to brew black tea is not about being fussy. In fact, there is no ONE right or wrong way to do it! However, by following a few guidelines you can enjoy black teas to their fullest and appreciate all the subtleties and nuances they have to offer.

Ingredients

6 ounces water, plus more if pre-warming the pot or cup
2 to 3 grams or 1 rounded teaspoon loose leaf black tea
Optional : milk, lemon, sugar, honey, fruit preserves (Russian tradition)
Kettle to boil water
Thermometer (optional)
Teapot
Scale or measuring spoon
Filter or strainer
Timer
Tea cup for serving
Spoon for stirring milk, sugar, lemon (optional)

Instructions

Heat the water. Place the water in a tea kettle and heat it just to a rolling boil, or between 200° and 212°F.
Pre-warm the teapot or cup (optional). Pour a small amount of boiling water into the pot or cup. When the pot or cup is warm, pour out the water.
Measure the tea leaves. Using a scale, measure 2 to 3 grams of tea leaves. Alternatively, measure 1 rounded teaspoon of tea leaves.
Place the leaves in the teapot or cup. Place the tea leaves in the pot or cup, either directly or in an infuser.
Pour the water. Pour the water over the tea leaves.
Cover the teapot or cup. Place the lid on the teapot or, if using a cup, cover it with a lid or a small saucer.
Keep it cozy (optional). Cover the teapot or cup with a tea cozy or a thick towel to retain heat.
Steep the tea. Set a timer for 3 to 5 minutes. You may wish to taste the tea at 3 minutes and then every 30 seconds until it is to your liking.
Stop the infusion. As soon as the tea is ready, remove the leaves by lifting out the infuser or pouring the tea through a strainer.
Add milk, lemon, or sweetener (optional). If using milk, heat it gradually by adding the milk to the cup first, then pouring in the tea. Avoid combining milk and lemon, or the milk may curdle.