Basic Tea Brewing
Back in 2016, the Tea Council of the USA declared January 12 as National Hot Tea Day. Embrace this day with the warmth and comfort of a soothing hot cup of tea. Whether you prefer the bold flavors of black tea, the delicate notes of white tea, or the aromatic infusion of herbal blends, this day invites you to indulge in the timeless ritual of brewing a perfect cup. Take a moment to savor the tranquility, and health benefits that hot tea brings.
Each Grateful Gourmet Tea is marked with the brew time and temperature right on the package. Some basic brewing techniques are always helpful, and are noted below, but our general advice for brewing tea is what best suits your taste-buds. After all, it’s YOUR cup of tea!
-
The best temperature to brew delicate white tea leaves is between 158º F- 176ºF.
Allow to brew one to two minutes.
Shop White Tea
-
Depending on the type of green tea, water temperature should be between 156º F and 194º F.
Just like white tea, green tea only needs a short infusion. One or two minutes.
Shop Green Tea
-
Ideal water temperature for brewing Matcha powder is 176º F.
The liquid is then whisked until frothy using a bamboo whisk or mini whisk.
Shop Matcha Tea
-
Depending on the variety of Oolong, the water temperature for brewing varies from 176º to boiling.
Allow to brew for two to three minutes.
Shop Oolong Tea
-
Assam tea is best brewed at a boiling water temperature.
Brewing time for Assam tea is between three to five minutes depending on type.
Shop Black Tea
-
Use boiling water and depending on the variety, brew from one to three minutes.
Shop Darjeeling Tea
-
Use boiling water and allow to brew up to three minutes.
Shop Black Tea
-
Use boiling water, and allow to brew up to five to ten minutes.
Shop Rooibos & Honey Bush
-
Use boiling water, and brew between five and ten minutes. Some may need to brew up to 20 minutes.
Shop Herbal Tea
Being we are located in Galena, Illinois, we experience quite blistery winters, and there is nothing quite like wrapping our hands around a steaming mug of our favorite teas like Black Currant or Chai. (Bonus if we’re curled up with a favorite book, or snuggling with a sweet pet!)
Packed with antioxidants, hot tea helps boost our immune system and fend off illnesses, making it the perfect companion during the colder months. When we have a sore throat or need to relax tense muscles, hot tea (with a dash of honey!) provides us with an overall sense of well being. We hope it does for you too! So, next time you need to chase away the chill, reach for a cup of hot tea. Let its comforting warmth and healthful properties revitalize you from the inside out.
Happy National Hot Tea Day!
by Josie Asta