Brewing tea from a bag might seem like one of the simplest tasks in the kitchen. However, most tea drinkers unknowingly make a few key mistakes that compromise the flavor and quality of their beverage. If you want every cup of tea to be aromatic and enjoyable, it’s essential to avoid these missteps with your tea bag.
Over-Steeping the Tea Bag
One of the most common errors is leaving the tea bag in hot water for too long. Ideally, the tea bag should steep for no more than three to four minutes. Prolonging the steeping time to five minutes or longer results in the release of excessive tannins into the beverage.
While tannins in small amounts can provide health benefits and a pleasant flavor, an overabundance turns the tea bitter and potentially harmful to the body. The delicate balance of flavor and health benefits is disrupted, leaving you with a drink that’s far less enjoyable.
Squeezing the Tea Bag
Another frequent mistake is squeezing the tea bag after removing it from the cup. This might seem like a practical way to extract every last drop of tea, but it significantly impacts the taste.
By pressing the bag, you release concentrated tannins and other compounds into the tea, which intensifies bitterness and undermines its delicate flavors. The slight increase in liquid volume is not worth the compromise in taste.
How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Tea
To truly enjoy the full aroma and flavor of tea, steep the bag for the recommended three to four minutes and avoid squeezing it after removing it from the cup. This simple practice preserves the balance of flavors and ensures a smooth, pleasant drinking experience.
By steering clear of these common mistakes, you’ll elevate your tea-making routine and savor a perfectly brewed cup every time.