Many beginner tea enjoyers are introduced to loose leaf tea through teabags, found in many shops and supermarkets. While teabags can be a great introduction to a range of teas, loose leaf tea offers a richer, more flavourful experience. It’s the obvious next step on your tea journey! Grab yourself a tea strainer, and settle down for these easy steps to brew loose leaf tea.
-
Brewer
First (and most importantly!) is a brewer, to hold your loose leaf tea. We use Japanese cast iron teapots at Biscuit and Brew, but for a single cup, a mug from home is fine.
-
Infuser
A key difference between teabags and loose leaf tea is that for the latter you’ll need a tea strainer. Many teapots, including our cast iron ones, come with a strainer inside. However if you’re looking to brew in a mug, you might want to acquire a single cup tea infuser/strainer. These can be single use or metal, and include mesh ball and basket infusers.
-
Water
Freshly drawn and boiled water is needed to a great loose leaf cup of tea, this can be boiled from the kettle or on the hob. The ideal temperature of the water also depends on your type of tea- but more on this later!
-
Loose Leaf Tea
Ensure you have some loose leaf tea ready to brew. Most tea found in teabags will have a loose leaf version available. For tips on some good teas to start with, see the bottom of this page.
Optional: Thermometer
All teas will taste great with water boiled straight from the kettle. However, if you're wanting to extract the best flavours from your loose leaf tea, a thermometer can help ensure you are brewing at the right temperature for the tea you are using.
Loose Leaf Tea FAQ
How much Loose leaf Tea do I need?
2.5g/1tsp of loose leaf tea is needed for 200ml water. In our 500ml cast iron teapots, scale this up based on how many cups you are making or the size of your pot.
What If I Like A Strong Cup of Tea?
If you like a stronger brew, try adding a little more loose leaf tea, or slightly less water. Alternatively, try a stronger tea, like Assam, or increase the steeping time and water temperature to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment to discover how you like to brew your loose leaf.
Is There More Caffeine In Loose Leaf Tea Than Teabags?
Maybe! Loose leaf tea does not always have more caffeine than teabags. Teabags can sometimes have slightly more caffeine, as the smaller tea particles brew more quickly. However, caffeine content really depends on which loose leaf tea you chose, how much tea, the water temperature and how long you steep it.
How Should I Store My Loose Leaf Tea?
Loose leaf tea should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
How Long Does Loose Leaf Tea Stay Fresh?
If stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, loose leaf tea can last for 6-12 months for green and white teas, or up to 2 years for black teas.
Can You Reuse Loose Leaf Tea?
You can reuse some loose leaf teas, but it depends on the type of tea. Black teas are best enjoyed with fresh leaves each time, and we don't recommend these are resteeped. Lighter teas however, like green or white, can be steeped for a second cup to bring out new, softer flavours.
What Do I Do With My Loose Leaf Tea After Steeping?
First, drain excess liquid soaked up by the leaves. After this, loose leaf tea is great for composting, or can be added to your food bin or general waste.
Start Your Tea Journey
Not sure where to start with loose leaf tea? If you’re unsure where to start, why not try some of our bestsellers?
