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Tea Guides

The Tea Kitchen’s Loose Leaf Tea Brewing Guide

February 2, 2022

Making the switch from tea bags to loose leaf tea can feel intimidating at first but we promise it is easy and worth it! When you steep loose leaf tea, it has more room to expand and infuse the water with its many vitamins, minerals and aromas, resulting in a much stronger and flavorful drink. Whether you are a fan of earl grey or a herbal chamomile, we got you covered. We created an entire guide from what tools you need to how to steep the perfect tea every time. To brew the perfect cup of tea, you will need a few basics that you probably have laying around your kitchen right now!

About Tea

True teas are made from the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant. The Camellia Sinensis plant can be found in Asian and African countries, but is primarily native to the Eastern regions of Asia. It grows in tropical and sub-tropical climates. Today, tea is grown and produced in every continent except Antarctica.

In order to achieve the flavor of a certain type of tea, there are different processes the leaves must undergo. The different cultivation types allow teas to develop different scents, aromas, flavors, and colors. Oxidation plays a huge role in this process.

The type of tea that requires the least amount of cultivation is White Tea and is typically a great tea to start with as it is the easiest to brew. The delicate aroma and flavor of white tea is achieved through picking young tea buds that are tightly enclosed in new tea leaves. Because of the lightness of white tea, it is often combined with floral notes to create a tasty infusion. Our White Peony Tea is a perfect example of this delicious combination.

Green tea has a quick turn around due to the lack of oxidation. Green tea leaves can be picked in the morning and served as tea the same evening. Because it does not undergo the oxidation process, green tea retains the chlorophyll and minerals from the plant and remains dark green as it produces a more astringent flavor. Green tea can be associated with various different health benefits including promoting brain function and cardiovascular health. To read more about the different benefits that come alongside green tea, read our post on the health benefits of green tea. Some of our favorite green teas to brew, including Chinese Sencha and Jasmine Special Grade Green, can be found in our online collection.

In contrast to green tea, Black Tea is oxidized which is how it earns the dark brown coloring. Following the oxidation of the tea leaves, they are fired in an oven to stop the process and allow the leaves to turn color. Black tea is generally stronger and more potent than the other types of tea. It is a common tea that can be used to make Southern Sweet Tea, and afternoon tea as the British tea tradition stands. One specific Black Tea that is commonly served at afternoon tea is Earl Grey tea.

Oolong tea undergoes partial oxidation allowing it to find its place in between black and green teas. It combines the astringent flavoring of green tea and the complexity of black tea. Oolong tea is rich in flavor and like any other tea, you can control the strength of your tea by the timing of each steep.

What you’ll need:

  • Loose leaf tea of choice. Picking out a quality leaf is crucial for the perfect cup of tea. Some easy tips to follow are: the larger the leaf, the higher the quality and the better the flavor; Smell the tea to make sure it hasn’t gone stale. Generally speaking, if it smells good it will taste good; For herbal teas, you want to focus on color and scent; if the herbs are faded or don’t have a fragrance, they are probably too old.
  • Electric kettle, stovetop kettle or pot. No worries if you don’t have a kettle lying around. You can easily use a pot that you have in your cupboard. Your trusty old French press is also perfect for brewing tea! Nothing special here; use the press like you always do and use tea leaves instead of coffee (just make sure to clean the press very well first so you don’t get any coffee flavors mixed with your tea). If you are interested in stepping up your tea game and are needing a new teapot, check out this blogpost for the best teapots.

    Tip: If you don’t have a thermometer laying around, use this rule of thumb: 180° F = bubbles form on the bottom of the pot, 195° F = the first bubbles begin to rise, 212° F = full rolling boil.
  • Tea infuser. If you do not have a tea infuser, you can use a kitchen strainer. If you do not have a kitchen strainer, you can place the tea leaves directly into the hot water for infusion. However, the tea prepared by this method will be harder to drink for someone not used to drinking this way because tiny bits of leave will float on the surface. You can avoid the tea leaves hitting your lips by blowing a bit in your cup.
  • Fresh water. Tea is made up of nearly 99% water. This primary ingredient definitely deserves some consideration! Using clean water will help with the best taste for your tea. Using water that has been in your kettle overnight may result in a stale tasting tea, and we definitely do not want that!

How to:

1. Pour fresh water into your tea kettle or pot and bring to appropriate temperature.

2. While waiting for water to boil, add the appropriate amount of loose leaf tea to your tea infuser. Place the tea infuser inside your teapot or mug. 

3. When the water reaches the desired temperature, pour it over the tea infuser into your mug or teapot. This will allow the water to circulate through the leaves.

4. Time your tea. Once the time is up, dunk the infuser a couple of times to circulate the water. Remove the infuser.

5. Serve in your favorite mug and enjoy your delicious cup of tea.

Brewing Guidelines:

Black Tea
If you like your black tea to be full bodied and rich, we recommend steeping it with boiling hot water. If you are looking for more of a caffeine kick, black tea with broken leaves will release caffeine more easily.
Teaspoons: 1 to 2
Brew time: 3 to 5 minutes
Temperature: 190 to 210 F

White Tea
White tea is usually quite forgiving when it comes to brewing. It is hard to over-brew and it shouldn’t get too bitter if you steep it at high temperatures. However, lower temperatures might give you a more nuanced brew, so this is a great opportunity to experiment and find out for yourself what you prefer!
Teaspoons: 2
Brew time: 3 to 4 minutes
Temperature: 170 to 180 F

Green Tea
Green tea is slightly more sensitive to temperature, especially with Japanese green tea. Make sure to keep your water temp lower so your tea does not come out bitter.
Teaspoons: 1 to 2
Brew time: 1 to 3 minutes
Temperature: 170 to 180 F

Oolong Tea
Oolongs vary significantly in the level of oxidation. Some lighter oolongs are much closer to green teas (you’ll recognize the low oxidation level by the green color of the dry leaves). Therefore, brewing these teas at a lower temperature might bring out some interesting notes and flavours. However, in general oolongs are quite forgiving and can be brewed with boiling water.
Teaspoons: 1 to 2
Brew time: 3 to 5 minutes
Temperature: 170 to 180 F

Herbal Tea
Unlike real types of tea such as green and white teas, herbal teas are much easier to brew. They also steep for longer, too!
Teaspoons: 1 to 2
Brew time: 3 to 5 minutes
Temperature: 190 to 210 F

Chai Tea
Chai tea’s base is black tea so, like above, if you like your cup full bodied, make with boiling hot water. If you are making this as a chai tea latte, using whole milk will bring ut all the richness in the spices (but all milks will do!)
Teaspoons: 1 to 2
Brew time: 4 to 5 minutes
Temperature: 205 to 212 F

Must Try Loose Leafs:

If you are a newbie to brewing loose leaf, your safest bets are black and herbal teas. These tea types are more forgiving with the brewing temperature and timing. Our recommendations for black teas are China KeemunAutumn Cranberry Black and Vanilla Black tea. For herbal teas, Hibiscus Flower and Lemon Ginger are fan favorites.

FAQ’s:

How do I store my tea? Will it go bad?
Tea should be stored away from light, moisture, and strongly flavored or fragranced foods. Storing in an airtight container is recommended. Green and white teas will keep fresh for up to a year. Black and oolong teas for no longer than a year and six months.

Can loose leaf tea be reused?
Yes, if the tea is green or oolong. Do not reuse black tea. When reusing tea increase the brewing time with each successive infusion to ensure sufficient taste.

What are the health benefits of drinking tea?
We have some great blog posts written on the benefits of tea here!

Make sure to follow us on Instagram @theteakitchen for daily tea tips and more!

Tea Industry

The Tea Kitchen featured on Redfin!

January 25, 2022

Recently, Redfin asked us about our favorite tips about creative home decor tips for the New Year and we were happy to oblige. Obviously, loose leaf tea consumes our lives daily, but our passion for tea also ties in with our passion for home decor with natural scents and candles like eucalyptus, or even tea accessories that could help add to a space.

No matter if you’ve recently moved into a new home or have been in the same place for a number of years, the new year is a great time to consider re-doing your space. We are always reworking our space from florals, to candles, to pottery, there are countless creative home décor and art pieces you can bring into your home, no matter where you live.

That’s why Redfin asked us, along with other expects to share our best advice to find the right creative home décor. Check out what we had to say so you can make redesigning your home meaningful as you begin another new year…of course, you know tea was part of that and our natural outlook on things.

Switch Up Your Home’s Style! 17 Creative Home Décor and Art Tips for the New Year

Tea Gifts

Top 5 Holiday Tea Accessories

December 2, 2021

Tea is a timeless cultural activity that has been popularized for its ceremonial and health benefits, as well as its universal nature. From the dawn of time, tea has been instrumental in holistic healing in ancient tribes, ceremonies in the Eastern world, and a part of countless traditions around the world. In today’s world, tea is a part of millions’ morning routines and can be partnered with accessories to enhance your tea drinking experience. In this article, we cover the top 5 tea accessories that will take your tea routine to the next level. 

A Reliable Commuter Cup for the Tea Drinker On-The-Go

A commuter cup can be the perfect practical gift for yourself or another tea lover in your life! Save the time and cost of going to the coffee shop, and take your favorite blend with you on the go! This cup is perfect for travel of all types, from the daily work commute to hiking and adventuring with the family. 

This product is designed to fit seamlessly into your morning routine, coming in either 9 or 17-ounce capacities. Whether you love cold or hot brews, this cup can do it all. You can keep your hot beverages hot for 5 hours, and your cold beverages icy for 18 – nearly an entire day. The classy ceramic-coated interior and the 360-degree spillproof lid make this the perfect holiday gift option. 

A Cocktail Infusion Recipe Book that Can’t Be Beat 

This accessory can quite literally change your tea routine. Tea Cocktails: A Mixologist’s Guide to Legendary Tea-Infused Cocktails by Abigail Gehring gives your tea lover the perfect push to mix it up a bit, and has countless delicious recipes to dive into for a change of pace. Every recipe is infused with different ingredients and blends, bringing the flavors of the world together right in your kitchen. 

The cookbook is 176 pages, each one filled with vibrant and unique recipes sure to stun at your next event. This accessory is perfect for one who loves to entertain and is always looking for the next taste-based adventure. 

Hint: Our China Keemun tea is a full-bodied delicious brew that is sure to be a delicious base for just about any tea recipe you find!

A Clear Teapot That Will Class Up Your Kitchen

Part of the beauty of tea is the intentionality and unique process of brewing. Tea was meant to be enjoyed both by taste and by observation. This pot is handcrafted to deliver an artisanal and minimalistic modern touch to your kitchen, all while allowing you to view the beautiful steeping process. The pot is built for durability, crafted from lead-free borosilicate glass. 

This accessory is the perfect option for the tea lover who seeks simplicity and ease. The pot is microwave safe and easy to clean. The capacity is perfect for your routine, holding up to 25 fluid ounces with each use. Enjoy the little things and begin your journey of intentionality with this beautiful pot! 

A Sleek Infuser-Styled Bottle That’s Perfect For Daily Use 

If you are looking for your perfect accessory on the go, but like slower brewed blends, sometimes the travel cups just don’t cut it. You need something that allows you to brew alongside your busy schedule, delivering that perfect potency with every sip. If this sounds like you, we recommend the Teabloom Infusion Tumbler. 

The sleek design and company commitment to sustainability and versatility make this the perfect tool to use in your daily routine – enjoying your tea in an ethically-minded way with a low-impact bottle that is designed for use no matter where you are! Whether you’re hiking the trail, camping or traveling, or simply going to work, this bottle is meant to travel and infuse with you. 

You can enjoy a 16 fluid ounce capacity, and an easy-to-grip design that comes in an array of stunning colors, including rose gold, navy blue, ruby red, black, and pearl white. 

We recommend a delicious tea to be used with such a beautiful bottle. Look no further than our distinctly light and flavorful Blackberry Jasmine green tea!

Screw-Top Tea Storage System in Packs of 1, 3, or 5 Jars

Storing your tea properly preserves the life and function of your tea leaves. Loose-leaf teas often lack preservatives or stabilizers found in other tea, which can lead to dulled tastes and impaired utility with prolonged exposure to air or poor storage methods. These jars are created to help you to store your tea in confidence and to preserve that bold flavor in every sip.

These handy jars come in packages of 1, 3, or 5 jars and feature easy-to-use screw top lids. They are made of classic and sleek ultraviolet glass that prevents light rays from damaging the fragile flavors and body of the leaves. The material is completely BPA-free, so you can sip in confidence knowing that your health is preserved.

This is the perfect gift for a lover of loose-leaf blends, or for someone who is just falling in love with the tea-making routine. These look classy on any countertop and are the perfect size for easy storage.

Tea Accessories

Things You Need for the Perfect Tea Kit

January 4, 2016

So you want be a tea lover? If tea isn’t your cup of tea (I had to), you probably just haven’t found your flavor yet. In addition to finding the right blend, getting the right tools and accessories is essential to perfecting your tea kit. From tea sets to spoons and mugs, this list will give you an idea of some of the basics to getting your tea kit together.

Tea care

Whether it’s loose tea or bagged tea, everybody has their own preference. If you’re a die-hard tea lover like myself, you’ll want to dedicate a drawer or cupboard to different types of tea. If you don’t have a cupboard, a small shelf will do. Like we mentioned earlier, there is really a tea for every mood, so stock up on your favorites and try to get a variety.

Here are some example variety packs to get you a head start:

This Bigelow Set of tea is perfect for those looking to begin their sets and try out different flavors at a reasonable price.

This sampler comes in a chic jar and has a wide variety of top-quality flavors.

For those of you looking to explore loose tea, this sampler is the perfect way to expose your palate to the rare and delicate flavors that are out there. Plus they come in airtight, non-clear containers which prevents the teas from getting stale.

Mug

Now hopefully you already have some, but a good mug is just as essential as the tea you’re drinking.

If you’re on the go, invest in a reusable to-go cup like this one.

Classic Porcelain tea sets are always in style too.

Want a cute mug specifically built for tea? This is your mug.

Some mugs even have built in tea-infusers.

Teapot

This Chinese-inspired teapot acts as the perfect decor for your kitchen and of course does its job well. With intricate details and unique color, it will definitely be a staple in your kit.

You can never go wrong with a classic white porcelain teapot to serve tea in or to keep it warm for your guests.

Tea strainer

For those of you who prefer loose tea, you’ll need a good quality infuser to get the best taste possible. Luckily, there are all sorts of tea infusers, many with cute, decorative charm to them too.

With their leaf handle to pull in and out of the mug, these infusers focus on functionality.

Who could resist this manatee infuser?!

A spoonful of sugar

Having a stash of milk, honey and sugar is essential to perfect your tea. I prefer some plain and other with a dash of sweetness, either way, I keep my set within close proximity to my cupboard. Milk and sugar are the obvious go-to’s but there are plenty of alternative options like almond milk, agave and stevia.

These cute dishes will add charm to whatever you may want to keep near your tea.

These saucers would be the perfect set up for your tea additives.

Spoon

Yes, a regular old spoon will work, but these cute spoons are just too tempting and they’re custom hand stamped.

With these items, you’re on your way to becoming a tea connoisseur in no time. Like we said before, if you think you don’t like tea, you just haven’t found the right one quite yet.

Did we miss anything? Let us know by commenting your must have tea kit items!