Instructions for a Bodum Four-Cup Tea Infuser

Bodum makes a broad line of tea infusers, as well as their better known coffee presses.

Most Americans enjoy a tall glass of iced tea on a hot day, but in recent years traditional hot tea has also enjoyed something of a revival. Good quality loose tea is available in most supermarkets and specialty shops, and tea pots outfitted with infusers for loose tea are becoming widespread as well. The Bodum company, best known for their French press coffee makers, has a variety of tea pots that feature a similar mechanism.

Things You'll Need

• Loose tea or tea bags
• Boiling water

Instructions

1. Remove the lid and plunger from the tea pot. For a full pot, use 2 to 3 rounded teaspoons or Bodum scoops of loose tea. Alternatively, user two to three tea bags.

2. Fill a kettle with fresh, cold water. Bring it to a full, rapid boil and unplug the kettle immediately. If you are using a stove-top kettle, remove it from heat.

3. Pour the near-boiling water over the tea, filling the pot to within 2 inches of the lid. Replace the lid, with the plunger in the raised position. Steep the tea for five minutes, or until it reaches the desired degree of strength.

4. Push the plunger smoothly to the bottom of the pot, using the minimum force necessary. If the screen jams because it is clogged with leaves, raise it for a moment and then resume the downward pressure.

5. Serve the tea immediately. It will not grow bitter with the passage of time, because the plunger's screen blocks out the steeped leaves, preventing their tannins from permeating the tea.

Tips & Warnings

• For green tea, use the full three scoops and allow it to steep for 10 minutes. Green tea and other specialty teas often require a lower water temperature than ordinary black tea.

• Herbal teas vary widely in strength and steeping time. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for accurate timing.

References

• Bodum USA: Instructions for Assam 4-Cup Tea Press