"Of all the unnatural noises which serve to pull me from slumber, the
rattle of a cup and saucer is the least unwelcome."
--Mary Russell, LETT
How to brew a perfect cup of tea
Contributed by Jenny Newbury on July 5, 1998
Heat fresh, cold water to a rolling boil*. The water must be boiling!
Warm the teapot by filling it with very hot water.
Place one rounded teaspoon of loose tea into an infuser or use one teabag
for each six-ounce cup.
Empty the pre-warmed teapot, add tea, then pour in boiling water.
Allow tea to steep three to five minutes for black teas and five to ten
minutes for green or herbal teas. Remember to brew by the clock - not the
color of the tea.
*Note: Green teas are more delicate and easily destroyed than
black or oolong. Have the water very hot, but not boiling.