Brewing a Great Cup of Hot Tea

Brewing Tea - Glass Tea Set
Avoid a Bitter Brew
  • Do not over-steep.
  • Remove the tea infuser when tea is finished brewing.
  • Don't use too much leaf in proportion to hot water during brewing.

Tea brewing is a function of leaf, temp, and time. It takes only 2 grams worth of tea (about the weight of a dime) to make an 8oz. cup. Generally, a mounded teaspoon is plenty, keeping in mind that the bulkier the tea, the bulkier the scoopful needed. Teas - especially oolongs - can be steeped multiple times. The higher the grade of tea, the more steepings you can expect.

Tea Temp (F°) Time
Herbal Tea 212° 3 to 5 min
White Tea 180° 4 to 6 min
Green Tea 180° to 190° 3 to 4 min
Oolong Tea 190° to 200° 2 to 4 min
Black Tea 190° to 200° 3 to 5 min
Pu-erh Tea 190° to 212° 3 to 5 min
Ingredients & Tools

Makes 1 cup.

  • Tea - your choice, dry leaf.
    Approx. 1 tsp to 1Tbsp for every 8 oz of hot water. (See package for suggested portions).
  • Tea infuser - basket or paper are best.
  • Tea pot or cup.
  • Water - bottle or filtered are recommended.
Brewing the Perfect Cup
  1. Heat water to suggested temperature for the type of tea you are brewing. (See chart to the left).
  2. Scoop dry tea leaf into infuser.
  3. Pour hot water over dry leaves and steep for desired time.
    More time = stronger brew. Find the brew strength that is right for you.
  4. Remove tea infuser.
  5. Relax and enjoy!