Kenyan tea is known for its bold, brisk character and deep amber color. To truly appreciate its unique qualities, proper brewing is essential. Here's our comprehensive guide to brewing the perfect cup.
Water Quality
Always start with fresh, filtered water. The minerals in tap water can affect the taste of your tea. Avoid using distilled water, which can make tea taste flat.
Temperature Guide
- Black Tea: 200-212°F (93-100°C) - Use fully boiling water
- Green Tea: 160-180°F (71-82°C) - Let boiling water cool for 2-3 minutes
- White Tea: 160-185°F (71-85°C) - Delicate leaves need cooler water
- Purple Tea: 175-185°F (79-85°C) - Slightly cooler than black tea
Steeping Times
- Black Tea: 3-5 minutes for full flavor extraction
- Green Tea: 2-3 minutes to avoid bitterness
- White Tea: 4-5 minutes for best results
- Purple Tea: 3-4 minutes
Tips for Best Results
- Warm your teapot or cup before brewing
- Use 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8oz of water
- Don't squeeze the tea bag or leaves - this releases bitter tannins
- For stronger tea, add more leaves rather than steeping longer
Kenyan black tea is traditionally enjoyed with milk and sugar, but feel free to experiment to find your perfect cup!
