The perfect cup of tea

Preparing the perfect cup of tea can take practice. Especially because there are so many types of tea and ways to prepare it. Follow the steps below and enjoy. 

Green Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves just as the water begins to boil. Steep for 3 minutes uncovered. Don’t add anything for a refreshing tea flavor. 

Black Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves when the water arrives at a full boil. Steep for 5 minutes covered. Add a little honey, milk or lemon to taste. 

Oolong Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves when the water arrives at a full boil. Steep for 3 minutes covered. Oolong is the perfect tea for adding a citrus flavor like lemon or orange.

White Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves when the water is just under a boil. Steep for 2 minutes uncovered. White tea is best when enjoyed plain. The addition of milk, sugar, lemon or any spice is disruptive to its delicate tea flavor. 

Herbal Tea – Add a tea bag or leaves when the water arrives at a full boil. Herbal tea can steep forever unless it contains a tea listed above. Enjoy plain. Adding a little honey for root herbal teas can improve the taste but will add calories.

Tips: Use bottled, freshly drawn filtered water. If you use tap water, let it run for 10 seconds before use for fresher taste. Use one tea bag or one level teaspoon of loose tea per serving. Once the tea is ready, remove the bag or leaves to avoid excessive brewing that would cause a bitter taste.