Brewing Loose Leaf Tea by Kimber Flory

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

There is no real trick to brewing loose tea being that you can let your taste guide you. But here are some tips to making a good fresh cup of tea from loose leaves.

First: You must decide what you are going to brew your tea in. Cloth tea bags, tea balls, tea strainers, bamboo strainers, a French press pot, all can be put to use. There are several places, even online, where you can find the product that you are going to use. There are even those who simply put the tea into the water and allow it to steep that way. I don’t recommend that method, but some do.

Second: You must select the tea that you are going to use. Loose leaf comes in just about any type that you would like to use. The best thing to do is to select only one or two types of tea that you would like to try and purchase those. Loose leaf teas to do have a shelf life and will fade and lose flavor.
(always store loose leaf tea in an airtight container, in a dark, dry place. Storing it in glass containers can cause it to fade as well. An airtight tin is best. Do not store it near any other strongly flavored items as the tea will absorb that flavor.)

Third: Select the right amount of loose tea for the amount of tea you would like to make. The best starting point, until you are familiar with the particular tea you are using, is to go with one heaping teaspoon of leaves per 6oz. of water.

Fourth: Heat your water. You should not bring your water to a boil and allow it to boil when using it to brew tea. This releases all of the oxygen from the water and will give your tea a flat flavor. For best results, bring the water to just under a boil.

Fifth: Pour the water over your tea and allow it to steep. Do not go by the color of the tea for doneness, it is better to go by taste. First, remember that the smaller the leaves, the quicker it will brew. So, again, until you are familiar with the tea you are using, go by a minute at a time. Stir then taste. Once you have the proper steeping, remember the tea to avoid over-brewing.

Some of your stronger, darker, teas can be used for more than one infusion, simply add more hot water and allow for slightly longer brewing time.

There you go, a perfect cup of loose leaf tea. Enjoy the large variety of types that you can get in loose leaf. Let me know how it goes. Also, let me know if you find any favorites, I am always up for a good cup of tea.