How to brew loose leaf tea
Whether you’re new to loose leaf tea and need to know how to make your first cup or just want a little refresher, we’re here for you.
The tea-making experience (a.k.a. the tea ritual) is just as important to the individual as the end result. It’s up to you to create your own tea session style — and here are some basic pointers to get you started with a simple cup.
Get that tea!
Assuming you are reading this because you already have some tea to brew (or if not, view today’s menu) — check the packaging for recommendations on serving, water temperature, and steep time. Otherwise carry on with the general guidelines below.
The common recommendation is to use about one teaspoon of tea for every 8 to 10 oz. of water. It’s okay if it’s not exact because you can always add more water or more time to tailor the flavor strength to your liking.
Add hot water.
Depending on your feelings about beverages with floating bits, you may find it preferable to use an infuser or strainer to keep the tea leaves separate after steeping. In a pinch (or if that is just the way you want to do it), you can put the leaves directly into the cup instead. Add the hot water after the leaves. The hot water will naturally push the leaves down a bit.
Many premium brands suggest water temperatures for specific varietals and we always recommend following those expert guidelines. In all other cases we generally stick to the low end of the heat spectrum (195°F) due to the often delicate nature of loose leaf.
Wait for it…
Steeping extracts flavor, caffeine, and health properties from the tea solids. For stronger flavors, let the leaves steep for a longer amount of time — typically at the longer end of the recommended steeping time if your packaging includes directions. However, take care not to forget you’re steeping as some varietals (such as green tea) can develop bitter flavors. 1-2 minutes is usually a good window to “season” to personal taste.
Finally, don’t throw those tea leaves away just yet. You can re-steep the “used” leaves by adding more hot water at least 2-3 more times.
Time for tea!
That’s all there is to it. You can continue to add hot water to your leaves as desired for the remainder of your session. To make a full tea pot to share with company, apply the same principles to a different vessel and greater volumes of tea and water.
If you’re interested in other loose leaf preparation methods, you should take a look at these thoughtfully done Tea Brewing Guides from über trendy NYC bespoke tea house Té Company. The guides break down cold brew, clay pot, french press, mason jar, and “Gaiwan,” a Chinese word that describes a porcelain “lidded bowl” used with whole leaf tea.
No matter the method you choose, the cup is for you and the cup is for right now. Enjoy the moment.
