How to Make The Perfect Cup of Green Tea

Research has shown that green tea can lower cholesterol levels.

Having a hot cup of green tea can be relaxing and soothing on a stressful day. Green tea is known for its health benefits, and it is higher in antioxidants and lower in caffeine than black tea. Knowing how to make a perfect cup of green tea depends on personal taste, but this is a good starting point.

Things You'll Need

• Tea Kettle
• cup or teapot
• Green Tea
• Fresh cold water

Instructions

1. Put fresh cold water into the kettle on the stove. Green tea should be heated to between 140 and 185 F. Sliding a cooking thermometer into the spout as you heat your water will help you achieve the desired heat.

2. Preheat your cup or teapot with hot water before adding your water and green tea. This prevents a drop in temperature when you pour the heated water into the cup or teapot. If using tea bags, it is one tea bag per 8 oz. water in a cup. If using loose tea, it is 1 tsp. of loose tea per 8 oz. of water. When using loose tea, don't over-pack the basket or tea ball you are filling. Tea leaves need room to expand to give the best flavor.

3. Let the tea steep in the water, but don't over-steep the tea as it will result in a bitter taste. A perfect cup of green tea is steeped for 3 minutes or less, but you can experiment. Use a timer if necessary.

4. Drink your tea as soon as it has steeped for 3 minutes. Allowing tea to cool down too much will take away from the quality of your perfect cup of green tea.

References

• University of Maryland Medical Center: Green Tea
• The Fragrant Leaf: Green Teas