Brewing Tea

Learn how to brew loose tea for optimal flavor with this short technique video from the test kitchen of Cuisine at Home magazine. The method works for teas of all kinds—black, green, oolong, and white, as well as herbal infusions.

Transcript

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Brewing loose leaf tea isn't difficult, but there are a few simple things you should

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know about to make sure the tea isn't under brewed and weak, or that it becomes bitter

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from over brewing.

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You don't need anything fancy to properly brew tea.

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I use a Pyrex measuring cup and a fine mesh strainer, but teapots with removable inserts

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are also available and reasonably priced.

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Start by measuring the tea leaves into the cup or the strainer insert of a teapot.

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The instructions on the tea should indicate how much to use per serving.

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Then, determine the temperature of the water with an instant read thermometer.

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Each tea is best when brewed at its own optimal water temperature.

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Also often indicated on the package, so this is an important step.

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Next pour water over the leaves and let steep as directed on the package of tea.

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It's critical to monitor the length of time so its much flavor can be extracted from

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the leaves as possible, but don't steep it too long or the tea will be bitter.

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Finally, strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer into a serving cup.


Brewing loose-leaf tea isn't difficult, but there are a few simple things you should know about to make sure the tea isn't under-brewed and weak, or that it becomes bitter from over-brewing. We use a kettle and strainer, but you could also use a tea pot or a french press.