How long should you steep loose leaf tea?
Steeping times can seem inconsistent and confusing, but they don’t have to be! Once you understand the different types of tea and why they require specific times and temperatures, you’ll confidently brew your tea without second-guessing.
Tea leaves and herbal teas vary significantly in steeping times, so in this post, we’ll cover the most common types and their recommended steeping durations. Always check the label on your tea for the best brewing time specific to that tea or herb. However, some companies use generic brewing times, so understanding the different types of tea will help you brew the perfect cup every time!
Tea Types & Tea Brewing Times
This is a list compiled of common and popular teas. If you don’t see your favorite tea on the list, comment down below! It will be added to the next Tea Type and Brewing Times post. Brew times are suggested for best flavor profile but feel free to experiment to find your favorite flavor and tea strength.
Black Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Steeping Time: 3-5 Minutes
Water Temperature: 200F-212F
Black tea is fully oxidized, giving it a dark color and bold, robust flavor. It is the most widely consumed type of tea in the world, with popular varieties including English Breakfast, Earl Grey, and Darjeeling. The flavor of black tea can be malty, spicy, fruity, or smoky, depending on the region and processing method. Because it is fully oxidized, black tea can handle boiling water without becoming overly bitter, making it perfect for a strong, energizing brew.
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Steeping Time: 1-3 Minutes
Water Temperature: 160F-185F
Green tea is made from unoxidized leaves and is one of the least processed types of tea. The flavor of green tea can range from grassy and vegetal to sweet and nutty, depending on the region and method of production. Popular varieties include Japanese Sencha and Chinese Dragonwell. To prevent bitterness and maintain its bright, fresh taste, green tea should be steeped at a lower temperature for a short time.
Herbal Tea Blends
Steeping Time: 5-15 Minutes
Water Temperature: 200F-212F
Herbal teas, also known as tisanes, are infusions made from a variety of herbs, flowers, fruits, and spices, rather than the tea plant (Camellia sinensis). Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free and are valued for their diverse flavors, uses, and potential health benefits. Popular herbal teas include peppermint (cooling and soothing), chamomile (calming and floral), and hibiscus (tart and fruity). The longer steeping time and boiling water help to fully extract the flavors and beneficial compounds from the herbs. Always check you label for suggested brewing times.
Oolong Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Steeping Time: 3-5 Minutes
Water Temperature: 185F-205F
Oolong tea is partially oxidized, falling between green and black tea in terms of oxidation. This tea is known for its complex and varied flavors, which can range from light and floral to rich and fruity or even roasted, depending on the level of oxidation. Oolong tea is often re-steeped, with each infusion revealing new layers of flavor.
Rooibos Tea (Aspalathus linearis)
Steeping Time: 5-7 Minutes
Water Temperature: 200F-212F
Rooibos, “red bush tea,” is an herbal tea from South Africa made from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant. It has a naturally sweet, slightly nutty flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel. Rooibos is rich in antioxidants and is caffeine-free, making it a popular choice for those looking for a soothing, non-stimulating beverage. It can be enjoyed plain or with milk and sweetener, and it benefits from a longer steeping time to develop its rich, full-bodied flavor.
Yerba Mate Green Tea (Ilex paraguariensis)
Steeping Time: 3-5 Minutes
Water Temperature: 150-170F for traditional preparation, up to 200F for other methods
Yerba mate is a traditional South American drink made from the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. Known for its earthy, grassy flavor, yerba mate is often consumed for its energizing properties. It is traditionally prepared in a gourd with a bombilla, but it can also be brewed like tea. Yerba mate is rich in caffeine, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds, making it a popular choice for a stimulating and healthful beverage.
Shop Our Loose Leaf Tea Collection!
- Original price was: $61.00.$51.85Current price is: $51.85.
Wellness Support Bundle | Herbal Tea Gift Box
- Original price was: $64.00.$54.40Current price is: $54.40.
Classic Tea Bundle | Tea Lover Gift Box
- Original price was: $60.00.$51.00Current price is: $51.00.
Iced Herbal Tea Bundle| Tea Lover Gift Box
