White tea steeped for 5 minutes - photo A DeBrule
Proper steeping time is mostly dependent on the tea being brewed; but it is also a matter of taste. The longer tea is steeped, the stronger it will be. Most tea drinkers enjoy tea steeped to medium strength (about 3 to 5 minutes); others prefer a stronger brew (up to 7 minutes).
The Taste Test
Ideally, tea should be steeped at varying strengths and according to packaged or manufacturer’s directions to avoid bitterness that spoils its flavor. However, one of the best ways to determine the proper steeping time for tea is to take a taste test. Steep several cups of tea for different times to determine the right strength and taste for your palate. Keep a record of the steeping time for each cup and make a note of the one you prefer.
Steeping Guidelines
Here are some general guidelines for steeping common varieties of tea:
| Green tea | 1-3 minutes |
| White tea | 4-8 minutes |
| Black tea | 3-5 minutes |
| Herbal tea | 5-8 minutes |
| Since most loose teas are good for multiple infusions, after the initial steep allow additional times for each subsequent one. | |
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Comments
It is not just the steeping time of tea that is important, one should also have the correct water temperature. This varies depending on the type of tea your are making, be it black, green, white, oolong, etc.
Mary Elizabeth, Editor,Tea Break Magazine.
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