I recently answered a reader question about Afternoon Tea etiquette in honor of National Hot Tea Month. Here’s another tea tip for those interested in learning more about the art of tea.
Dear Diane,
One of my resolutions for the new year is to swap my beloved fair trade coffee for organic, loose leaf tea. I know the benefits of drinking tea are numerous and I’m excited to explore everything it offers. What are your top tips for making the perfect pot of loose leaf tea? I’m comfortable using tea bags but would like to elevate the experience just a bit for myself and my guests. Lastly, what kind of tea strainer do you recommend?
Thanks in advance,
Casey
Dear Casey,
As a tea lover, I celebrate your new year’s resolution! I’m confident this new ritual will add an element of comfort to your day. The search to find your favorite tea variety (and to offer a nice selection for your guests) can be quite rewarding as well. The good news: brewing a pot of loose leaf tea is simple with a little planning and preparation. I’ve also included information on tea strainer techniques far below.
Here are some simple steps to get your pot warm and ready to go.
- Run hot tap water and pour it in your teapot to “warm” the pot while you boil your water.
- Heat fresh water (not previously boiled) in a kettle to a rolling boil and remove from heat. Don’t over-boil.
- Pour the tap water out of the teapot and add tea leaves. Use one teaspoon of tea per person and an additional teaspoon “for the pot.”
- Pour the boiling water directly over the tea leaves and let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on desired strength.
- Place a tea cozy over the pot to keep it warm.
- Using a tea strainer, pour the tea into your teacup.
- Add sweetener, lemon or milk.
- Serve alone or with scones, finger sandwiches and pastry.
Keep reading for pointers on using a tea strainer.
How to Use a Tea Strainer
- A tea strainer can be made of mesh or metal and strains the leaves to deliver a perfect cup of tea.
- If using a mesh ball, insert directly into the pot or cup.
- Pour boiling water directly over the ball and into your cup, skipping the teapot altogether.
- Use a tea infuser or strainer and place over the mouth of the teacup to catch the leaves.
Good luck,
Diane
You may also like Afternoon Tea Party Etiquette. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on Huff Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.
