Learn2 Make A Perfect Pot Of Tea
The Pot That Hits The Spot!
In many parts of the world, tea is an inextricable part of history and culture. But in other places, serious tea drinking is just taking hold.
Some merely seek an alternative to coffee and soft drinks; some seek the potentially restorative virtues of tea, especially green and herbal varieties.
While the methods and serving of certain varieties differ, consider this 2torial your basic primer.
Before You Begin:
If you must use tap water, run the faucet to clear the water sitting in the pipes. Colder and fresher water makes a tastier, livelier infusion.
Warm the steeping pot. Let it sit, filled with very hot water, for a few minutes. Then drain. Place in the oven, at the lowest setting, until warm inside and out.
What You'll Need:
- Pure, fresh water (spring or purified, if possible); 5-6 ounces per cup.
- A non reactive saucepan in which to boil the water (preferably glass or enamel-coated metal).
- A ceramic, glass or enameled teapot.
- Quality black, green, or oolong tea leaves, or herbal leaves and flowers; one teaspoon per cup, plus one "for the pot."
- A fine meshed strainer.
- A tea cozy (optional).
Time:
Ten to 20 minutes.
Key Terms:
- Tea cozy: a kind of warm hat for your teapot. Cozies are deemed essential in environments where the air temperature will chill the water in the pot to the point that it's too cool for proper steeping and enjoyable drinking.
- Black tea: Tea that is dried and fermented, thus stronger than green tea.
- Green tea: Tea that is dried immediately after harvesting.
- Oolong tea: Semi-fermented, with an inimitable flavor.
Step One: Boil WaterStep Three: Strain And Serve The Tea
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