Tea is a cult drink that is loved by millions of people.
As a rule, standard methods of preparing tea are used, due to which the taste and aroma are not fully revealed.
Therefore, it is worth remembering 8 secrets of making tea, thanks to which you can get the perfect drink.
Freshness
There is a reason why tea packaging has an expiration date. Many people may think that tea cannot go bad, but this is a typical mistake. Tea contains essential oils that gradually begin to decompose over time.
Tea can be stored for up to two years, provided that the packaging is airtight and the storage location is dry and cool. Experts recommend using tea within 6 months after opening the package.
Brewing space
When pouring tea into the brew, most people immediately start pressing it. The problem also concerns tea bags. There is a simple rule: tea bags should increase in volume when brewing.
It is better to give preference to loose leaf tea. If there is no possibility to brew tea fully, most people buy tea bags. Here it is worth paying attention to pyramid-shaped tea bags, because they always have more free space.
Tea is water
This statement may cause a lot of controversy, but one should be rational. Everyone should ask themselves: what does tea consist of? Its main component is water.
If low-quality water is used, it is pointless to talk about a tasty and healthy drink. Everything should start with the basics, so special attention should be paid to the choice of water.
Water temperature
The temperature of the water during brewing is of key importance. Everyone knows that the water needs to be boiled well.
It is for this reason that a typical mistake is made, as many people brew tea in boiling water.
This should not be done, because the boiling water will cause some of the nutrients and taste to be lost. Here are some tips:
- Black tea should be brewed at a temperature of no more than 90 degrees.
- When considering white or green varieties, the temperature should be around 80 degrees.
It is also worth following an important rule: it is not recommended to re-boil water.
Correct proportions
Many may say that this is a matter of taste and preference for each person. Why not start from standard recommendations? The basic norm: you need to add from half to two spoons of green or white tea to a glass of water.
If you are brewing black varieties, it is better not to use more than one spoon. If you are not satisfied with the strength, it is better to increase the steeping time, rather than adding more tea leaves.
What kind of cookware to use
Previously, tea was recommended to be brewed in porcelain or earthenware. There will be no mistake if ceramic or glass teapots are used, which are easy to purchase. The main thing is not to use metal utensils, as the taste and aroma change in them.
Milk is not allowed
Nowadays you can find dozens of different recipes that recommend adding milk. Of course, the taste of the drink will change after adding milk, but what's good about that?
Milk proteins neutralize the beneficial properties of tea when heated. Also, adding milk can cause bloating, stomach pain, and other problems.
Lemon
Drinking tea with lemon is a healthy habit. Lemon contains vitamin C and other useful substances. After adding lemon, the taste of the drink changes for the better, but here too it is worth remembering about a reasonable concentration. Here is a simple tip: add one lemon wedge to tea, then the taste will be rich and harmonious.
