The Right Tools for the Right Brew

Before we start, let’s get our tools ready. You’ll need:

• High-quality green tea (loose leaves or a teabag)

• A teapot or a cup

• Fresh, preferably filtered water

• A kettle for boiling water

• A timer (optional, but helpful)

Step-by-Step Brewing

1. Quality of Tea: Start with high-quality green tea. Whether you prefer loose leaves or teabags, the quality of the tea greatly influences the taste.

2. Water Temperature: This is crucial. Boil water and then let it cool to about 80-85°C (175-185°F). Green tea requires cooler water than black or herbal teas. Using boiling water can make it taste bitter.

3. Pre-Warm the Teapot or Cup: Pour some hot water into your teapot or cup, swirl it around, and then discard it. This helps maintain the temperature while brewing.

4. Measuring the Tea: Use about one teaspoon of tea leaves for every cup (250 ml) of water. If you’re using teabags, one bag per cup is fine.

5. The Brewing Time: Pour the hot water over the tea leaves or bag. Let it steep for 1-3 minutes. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor. If you prefer a lighter taste, steep for a shorter time.

6. Strain or Remove the Teabag: After steeping, remove the tea leaves or the teabag. This prevents over-brewing and bitterness.

7. Enjoy Your Tea: Your green tea is ready to be enjoyed. You can drink it plain or add a slice of lemon or a bit of honey if desired.