How to Brew the Perfect Cup of English Tea

The Decline of Traditional Tea Making

Since the advent of the teabag, the practice of brewing tea in a teapot has significantly declined. Many people now opt to steep their tea directly in a mug. Historically, tea drinking was a ceremonious event, especially during the Victorian era, when tea connoisseurs would blend their own tea leaves. Interestingly, the first recorded use of a teabag dates back to 1908, introduced by Thomas Sullivan in the USA. However, the Victorians, who cherished the elaborate ritual of tea drinking, likely dismissed this innovation.

Essential Ingredients and Tools

To brew an authentic cup of English tea, you will need:

• Quality tea leaves: Loose tea is preferable, but a high-quality teabag will suffice. Remember, the quality of the tea leaves directly affects the taste.
• Boiling water: A kettle full of boiling water is essential.
• Teapot: A teapot is crucial for the brewing process.
• Teaspoon: For measuring tea leaves or teabags.
• China cup or mug and saucer: China cups enhance the tea-drinking experience.
• Milk and sugar: To taste.

Step-by-Step Guide to Brewing Tea

1. Warm the Teapot

Pour about a quarter of a pint of boiling water into the teapot. Swirl the water around to warm the pot, then pour it out. This step ensures that the teapot retains heat, which is crucial for proper brewing.

2. Add Tea Leaves or Teabags

The general rule is to add one teaspoon of loose tea or one teabag per person, plus one extra "for the pot." For example, if you are making tea for five people, add six teaspoons of tea leaves or six teabags.

3. Pour Boiling Water

Fill the teapot with boiling water, enough to fill everyone's cup. Put the lid on the teapot to retain the heat and let it steep for two minutes.

4. Stir and Steep Again

Remove the lid, stir the tea with a spoon, replace the lid, and let it steep for another two minutes. The tea is now ready to be poured.

5. Serve in China Cups

Pour the tea into china cups, which are preferred for their ability to enhance the flavor of the tea.

The Milk Debate: Before or After?

The controversy over when to add milk to tea has been ongoing. Some argue that milk should be added first, while others insist that tea should be poured first. Traditionally, when brewing tea in a teapot, milk is added to the cup first, followed by the tea. This method is believed to prevent the milk from scalding and to create a smoother blend.

Adding Sugar

Sugar is added last, according to taste. The amount of sugar needed can vary depending on the size of the cup. A sugar bowl is useful for this purpose.

Preparing for a Second Serving

After pouring the first round of tea, refill the teapot with boiling water for a second serving. Stir the tea, replace the lid, and cover the teapot with a tea cosy to keep it hot. By the time you finish your first cup, the second batch will be ready.

The Social Aspect of Tea Drinking

Reviving the art of tea making can transform it into a relaxing social event that people of all ages can enjoy. It's ironic that while we buy toy tea sets for children, as adults, we often resort to the convenience of a teabag in a mug. Rediscover the joy of brewing a real cup of English tea and share the experience with friends and family.

Interesting Tea Facts

• The UK consumes approximately 100 million cups of tea daily, making it one of the largest tea consumers in the world (source).
• Loose leaf tea can be up to 50% more cost-effective than teabags, offering better quality and flavor (source).
• The tradition of afternoon tea was popularized by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, in the early 19th century (source).

Join the movement to bring back the art of tea making. Dig out your teapot and treat yourself and your loved ones to a real English cup of tea and a chat today.