The Key to a Great Cup of Tea: Patience, a Hot Pot, and Milk in a Mini Bottle
Every morning, my partner Jo and I get up at 6:30 and brew a pot of tea in one of our small iron pots. We bring it back to bed to brew and then drink. It's a comforting routine that sets the tone for the rest of the day. Over the years, I've learned that the key to brewing a great cup of tea is in the details.
First and foremost, heating the pot before brewing is crucial. This helps to keep the water at a consistent temperature throughout the steeping process, ensuring that the tea is brewed evenly. I usually fill the pot with boiling water and let it sit for a few minutes before pouring out the water and adding the tea leaves.
Next, I make sure to wait at least five minutes for the tea to steep. This allows the tea leaves to fully infuse the water and release their flavour and aroma. Patience is key when brewing tea, and rushing the steeping process can result in a weaker, less flavourful cup.
For our breakfast tea, we love a strong brew with milk. I've even found a mini 100ml bottle that used to have peach nectar in it, which I use to add milk to our tea. It reminds me of the classic milk bottles that used to be delivered to houses every morning, something that I've never experienced but have seen in movies.
Brewing tea has become a ritual for us, one that we look forward to each morning. It's not just about the taste, but the experience of brewing and enjoying the tea together. Whether it's a quick cup in the morning or a leisurely pot on the weekend, taking the time to brew tea mindfully can make all the difference.