How to Make a Perfect Cup of English Tea
Making an unforgettable cup of tea is a British tradition that has been around for centuries. Here is a simple guide on how to make the perfect cup of English tea:
Step 1: Gather the Tools
- Teapot
- Strainer
- Teaspoon
- Kettle
- Loose-Leaf Tea
- Fragrant Herbs (optional)
Step 2: Measure Out Tea and Heat Water
Using a teaspoon, scoop 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf tea into your teapot per person. If you like a more intensely flavored tea, add 1 extra teaspoon. Heat up your kettle or pot of water to a rolling boil; any hotter and the tea may become bitter and unpleasant.
Step 3: Add Herbs (Optional)
If you prefer, you can add in any herbs of your choice, such as chamomile, lavender, or lemon balm. This can add a sweet, floral flavor to the tea that may help enhance the general flavor.
Step 4: Pour Water over Tea Leaves
Once the kettle has reached a rolling boil, slowly and gently pour the water into the teapot over the tea leaves. Make sure to pour in a gentle, circular pattern so that all of the tea leaves are infused with hot water.
Step 5: Allow Tea to Steep
Leave the teapot to steep for 3-5 minutes. This allows all of the flavors from the tea to be absorbed into the water.
Step 6: Strain and Serve
Once fully brewed, strain the tea into cups for serving.
Step 7: Add Milk or Sweetener (Optional)
If desired, you can add a splash of milk or a spoonful of sugar, honey, or other sweetener to taste.
After these steps you will have a perfect cup of English tea. Enjoy!