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How to Brew Loose Leaf Tea
Tea basics
How to brew loose-leaf tea
Great tea needs only three things: the right amount of leaves, the right water temperature and the right steeping time. This guide shows you all three for every tea type.
Brewing in 5 steps
- Heat fresh, filtered water to the temperature for your tea (see the table).
- Measure the leaves: about 1 teaspoon (2–3 g) per 240 ml (8 oz) cup.
- Warm your cup or teapot with a splash of hot water, then pour it out.
- Steep the leaves for the time in the table. Taste a little early if you like it lighter.
- Remove the leaves so the tea doesn't over-steep. Keep them for a second infusion.
Brewing chart by tea type
| Tea | Amount per cup | Water temp | Steep time | Re-steeps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black tea | 1 tsp (2–3 g) | 95–100°C / 203–212°F | 3–5 min | 2 |
| Green tea | 1 tsp (2–3 g) | 75–80°C / 167–176°F | 2–3 min | 3 |
| White tea | 2 tsp (2–3 g) | 80–85°C / 176–185°F | 3–5 min | 3 |
| Oolong tea | 1 tsp (3 g) | 85–95°C / 185–203°F | 3–5 min | 4+ |
| Pu-erh tea | 1 tsp (3 g) | 95–100°C / 203–212°F | 2–4 min | 5+ |
| Herbal tea | 1–2 tsp (2–3 g) | 95–100°C / 203–212°F | 5–7 min | 1 |
| Rooibos | 1 tsp (2–3 g) | 95–100°C / 203–212°F | 5–7 min | 2 |
Making matcha? Whisk 1–2 g of powder in 70 ml of water at 70–80°C (158–176°F) until frothy. For iced tea, try cold brew: steep leaves in cold water in the fridge for 6–8 hours.
Teaware that makes it easy
You don't need much. An infuser basket in your favourite mug is perfect for one cup. For more, a teapot with a removable infuser lets you stop the steep on time.
Frequently asked questions
How much loose leaf tea do I use per cup?
Use about 1 teaspoon (2–3 g) of leaves for a 240 ml (8 oz) cup. Use a little more for large, fluffy leaves like white tea, and adjust to taste.
Why does my tea taste bitter?
Bitterness usually comes from water that is too hot or steeping too long, especially with green tea. Lower the temperature and shorten the steep.
Can I re-steep loose leaf tea?
Yes. Most oolong, pu-erh and many green and white teas can be steeped two or more times. Add 30–60 seconds to each new steep.
Do I need special teaware?
No. A mug with an infuser basket works well. A teapot with a removable infuser or a glass teapot makes larger batches easy.
Should I use tap or filtered water?
Fresh, filtered water gives the cleanest taste. Avoid re-boiled water, which tastes flat.
How should I store loose leaf tea?
Keep it in an airtight container away from light, heat, moisture and strong smells.
Ready to brew? Browse our loose leaf teas