How to select the best water temperature for brewing tea
Dear Lynne,
Green tea is my new antioxidant. Then I saw on the package: “Use 170ºF water.” Come on, how do I know if the water is 170 degrees Fahrenheit? Why not use good, old boiling water like my regular tea?
–Jeannie
Dear Jeannie,
Each type of tea is processed in different ways, so each type brews best at different temperatures. With green tea, water hotter than 170 degrees Fahrenheit overwhelms its delicacy. Since with new ventures simple guides work best, here is what you need to know:
Green teas: When the water starts to steam, it is around 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Steep this tea for 2 to 3 minutes.
Oolong teas: When the water barely begins to bubble, it is around 185 degrees Fahrenheit. Steep 2 to 3 minutes.
Black teas: Have the water at a full boil. Steep the tea 4 to 6 minutes.
Herbal teas: Same as green tea. Steep herbals for 3 to 4 minutes.
-Lynne
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