Just in case it wasn't obvious (from the fact that we've created a tea blog), we really like tea in all its shapes, forms, colors, and temperatures. We like a good cup of green tea as much as we like a cup of a special herbal mix. But if there's something we really like for certain is knowing how to steep tea properly.
Believe it or not, there is a way to steep tea that makes it more delicious and accentuates its amazing mental and physical health benefits.
How to steep tea the right way?
Read on and find out more, Sin Columna has all the answers you need.
What Is Tea Steeping, Actually? What Happens When You Steep Tea?
Tea steeping is the process of extracting flavors and health benefits from tea leaves or tea bags by immersion in hot water. When you steep tea, the water temperature, time, and amount of tea leaves all affect the flavor and nutrients that are extracted.
Of course, the type of tea you use will also affect how you steep it. Some varieties will get very bitter very soon, while others will actually require longer steeping times. Your own taste (i.e. how concentrated you like your tea) can also affect how you steep your tea (but then again, that's a matter of trial and error, rather than a "one size fits all" kind of recipe).
How to Steep Tea Properly
The ideal water temperature for steeping most types of tea is around 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit. However, black teas can be steeped at a higher temperature of up to 210 degrees Fahrenheit. Green teas should be steeped at a lower temperature of around 160-180 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is best to steep most types of tea for 2-3 minutes. Herbal teas can be steeped for up to 10 minutes. Be sure to use the correct amount of tea leaves for your desired flavor concentration.
Now that you know how to steep tea the right way, here are some general tips:
- Use fresh, cold water. Filtered water is best.
- Bring water to a rolling boil before pouring over tea leaves.
- Pour just enough hot water over tea leaves to cover them.
- Steep for the correct amount of time (if you don't know what that is, check what the box says or Google it)
- Remove tea leaves after steeping.
- Enjoy your cup of tea and savor it. Really savor it. Tea is always better when you take the time to enjoy every sip.
Happy sipping, then!
Tea Steeping FAQs
What does steeping tea mean?
Steeping tea is the process of extracting flavors and health benefits from tea leaves by immersion in hot water.
What is steeping tea?
Steeping tea happens when you extract flavors and health benefits from tea leaves by immersing the leaves (or the tea bags) in hot water. When you steep tea, the water temperature, time, and amount of tea leaves all affect the flavor and nutrients that are extracted.
Do you brew tea?
Brewing tea is a synonym for steeping tea and both words can be used interchangeably.
