Tea is one of the oldest drinks in the world, with a variety of traditions and rituals in countries like Japan and India focusing on the art of brewing tea.
You’d think, then, that most people would be familiar with the proper way to make tea. But there are several common mistakes with making tea that you, too, maybe guilty of doing.
To always make a great cup of tea, avoid these five tea no-nos.
1. Using the Wrong Water Temperature
When it comes to making tea, controlling the temperature is crucial. If your water for tea is too cool, the tea will be flat and watery. But if it’s too hot, you’ll damage the compounds that make up the taste and health benefits of the tea.
Always use the correct water temperature for the kind of tea you’re making. For black tea, water should come to a full boil, while green tea is better at around 180 degrees Celsius (or until steaming).
2. Over-Steeping Tea Bags
Already-packaged tea bags are a convenient way to make tea, especially if you’re not familiar with how to make tea properly. But you shouldn’t throw one in your cup and forget about it.
This can lead to over-steeping, which creates a bitter taste.
When you buy tea bags, check the packaging for the recommended steeping time. For example, Soursop tea bags are best enjoyed after steeping for up to five minutes.
3. Using Old Tea
Common tea ingredients, such as fresh leaves, herbs, and spices, typically won’t hurt you if they expire. But in letting these ingredients go bad, you lose flavor and some health benefits as the tea sits around for months in your cupboard.
Be sure to store your tea in an airtight container, and try to use it up soon after opening.
4. Using Dirty Utensils
Tea aficionados love their kettles, brewing baskets, steepers, and other tea-making utensils.
But sometimes, these utensils can be hard to clean. And that means that old gunk, leaves, and even rust can seep into your beloved cup of tea.
Check over your tea utensils, including in hard-to-reach places, and make sure to give them a good cleaning.
5. Microwaving Your Tea
Microwaving tea is often a pet peeve of serious tea lovers. But in a rush, you may have done this instead of waiting for water to boil in a kettle.
While microwaves are quick and convenient, they aren’t great for making tea. In fact, science shows that microwaving water for tea leaves cold water at the bottom of your cup.
That means that, even if your microwaved cup of water appears to be hot and steamy, your tea will actually be steeping in lukewarm water.
Avoid this mistake by sticking to more reliable kettles and teapots.
Avoid These Mistakes With Making Tea
Most of us are guilty of some mistakes with making tea. But by avoiding this five faux pas, you can make a delicious and relaxing cup of tea every time.
Ready to settle in with a soothing cup of tea or coffee? Read our latest recipes for drink inspiration!
