How to Make Loose Leaf Tea

Sip the Difference, Taste the Quality

Loose leaf tea is becoming popular among tea enthusiasts.
If you have never steeped a cup of tea using an infuser, we offer tips and a brief tutorial to help you begin.

Boiling Water

The quality of the water greatly influences the taste of the tea. Avoid using water that has been sitting for a long time or has been reheated. Different types of tea require specific water temperatures for steeping. Green tea, for example, is best brewed at a lower temperature than black tea. Refer to the specific steeping instructions for the type of tea you are using.

The recommended temperatures to boil water is as follows:

WHITE:
180°F / 82°C
GREEN: 180°F / 82°C
OOLONG: 200°F / 93°C
BLACK: 210°F / 99°C
HERBAL: 212°F / 100°C

Steeping Time

Steeping times vary for different teas. The longer you steep a cup, the more tannins and polyphenols are released into the cup. This results in a more calming brew but oversteeping can result in a bitter taste, while understeeping may leave the flavor underdeveloped. Follow the recommended steeping time for the type of tea you are preparing.

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses specific teas to address various health issues, believing in the balance of energies through herbal infusions.

FAQs for making loose leaf tea

Loose leaf tea consists of whole or large pieces of tea leaves, providing more flavor complexity, while tea bags often contain smaller, broken leaves or fannings.

While loose leaf tea may have a higher upfront cost, it often offers better value per serving, considering the quality and flavor it provides.

While a tea infuser or strainer is helpful, you can use household items like a teapot or French press to brew loose leaf tea.

Generally, use one teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8 ounces of water, but follow specific instructions for each tea type.

Yes, many loose leaf teas can be infused multiple times, each time offering different flavor nuances.

Loose leaf tea is preferred for potential health benefits as it often contains larger, intact leaves with more antioxidants.

Some studies suggest that certain tea bags, particularly those made with non-biodegradable materials like nylon or polypropylene, may release microplastics during steeping, raising concerns about potential health effects.

Steeping times can vary, but loose leaf tea may take a bit longer due to its larger leaves. Follow the recommended steeping times for optimal flavor.

Yes, we recommend choosing tea bags made from natural, biodegradable materials like unbleached paper or plant-based fibers. Look for eco-friendly packaging and consider loose leaf teas in sustainable or compostable tea bags for a healthier and eco-conscious choice.

Store loose leaf tea in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and moisture, to preserve its flavor and aroma.