Teas and Water

• Loose leaf teas
  
  Choosing the right type of tea is the first step in making a good cup of tea. Teabags, which are available at most grocery stores, can be used. Keep in mind that teabags are processed so much that the leaves have been broken down into tiny particles, and if left on the shelf for over a year, this type of tea will not provide the best flavor. Loose leaf teas impart a much richer, robust flavor since the leaves are larger and have not been processed.
  
  Always use filtered water for making a good cup of tea. Minerals and chlorine in tap water can alter the taste of the tea. Be sure to use fresh water every time you make a cup of tea; never use the water left over from the day before. Bring your water to a rapid boil.
  
  

Steeping

• Per cup, put 1 tsp. of loose leaf tea into a strainer or infuser. Strainers are placed over your cup when pouring the tea from the teapot so it catches the loose tea and does not go into your cup. Infusers are used to hold the loose tea while steeping in either a pot or cup. The loose tea is placed inside the infuser, which is then placed in either the teapot or the cup and the boiling water is poured over the infuser; the infuser is removed once the tea has steeped to your desired strength.
  
  For the best flavor, steep your tea for two to three minutes. Do not steep longer than three minutes or the tea will develop a bitter taste. Your tea is ready to drink once it has been steeped for the desired length of time.
  
  

Additions

• Most loose leaf tea has a wonderful flavor that typically does not need anything added. However, some people prefer to add a little something to their tea, such as lemon slices, sugar cubes and a drizzle of honey. A little milk can be added to the bottom of the cup before pouring the tea.