how to make green tea without tea bags - #14034
I am really struggling to figure out how to make green tea without tea bags. A few weeks ago, I decided to commit to a healthier lifestyle and read about the benefits of green tea. I thought, great, I can just brew some in the morning, right? But then I realized I don’t have any tea bags at home! Who even knew I would run out—like I used to have so many of them. Anyway, I tried using loose leaf green tea that I had lying around, but I have no clue how much to use or if I’m doing it right. I ended up with a super bitter cup last time. Do I really need a special tea infuser or can I just wing it with a regular strainer? Also, what’s the right temperature for boiling water? I've heard different things. Should it be like boiling or just below? And how long should I steep it? I want to make green tea without tea bags but also don’t wanna mess it up again! Any tips on how to make green tea without tea bags would be super helpful. Also, is there a specific brand of loose leaf tea you recommend? Thanks!
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Doctors’ responses
To make green tea without tea bags, you’re off to a good start by using loose leaf tea. It’s actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. You don’t need any fancy equipment—just a regular kitchen strainer will work fine. In terms of quantity, a general rule of thumb is to use about one teaspoon of loose leaf per cup of water. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can adjust by adding a bit more, but keep in mind that too much can make it bitter. Water temperature is crucial for green tea; unlike black tea, boiling water can cause bitterness. It’s best to aim for a temperature of around 175°F to 185°F (80°C to 85°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can bring the water to a boil and then let it sit for a minute or so to cool slightly. For steeping time, around 2-3 minutes is usually enough, but if you find it too strong or too weak, you can adjust as needed. Over-steeping can also make the tea bitter, so keeping an eye on the time is helpful. Regarding brands, it really depends on personal taste, but you might consider trying Japanese sencha or Chinese longjing (also called Dragon Well). They are quite popular and well-regarded in terms of quality. Lastly, once you’ve steeped the tea, pour it through your strainer into a cup to catch the leaves. Give it a try with these tips and see how it works for you!
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