Tip 1: Know Your Water Temperature
Did you know that you can actually burn your tea?
It’s true that many of our favorite blends steep at a rolling boil of 212°F, but there are some blends that quickly turn bitter and astringent if the water is too hot. Green teas, for instance, almost always steep at a lower temperature, closer to 160°F or 180°F, but it can vary from tea to tea.
Delicate Japanese greens, for instance, can steep as low as 140°F, and most matchas do best between 160°F and 170°F. White teas and oolongs also often steep at lower temperatures, but most herbals, black teas, and rooibos blends do require a higher water temperature to brew properly, usually much closer to 212°F.
Tip 2: Get Your Ratio Right
Generally, 1 tsp of loose-leaf tea for every 8 ounces of water is recommended regardless of the type of tea, but you can add more or use a little less to adjust the strength of your brew.
We suggest adding a little extra tea or rounding your teaspoon if you want a more flavorful cup as opposed to increasing the length of your steep time.
Tip 3: Timing Matters
Did you know that you can actually burn your tea?
Speaking of steep times, we’ve all been there. You’re excitedly brewing a cup of tea but then get distracted, leaving your forgotten cup steeping away on the counter. When you finally come back 30 minutes later, you’re left with a bitter, over-brewed cup of tea.
While a few blends, like fruity herbals, can withstand longer steep times, most “true teas” like greens and blacks cannot, so it’s crucial to stick to the brew time listed on the package. Like with water temperature, over-brewing your tea can result in the burning of the leaves, not just a stronger flavor.
Most Popular Teas
