I am excited to share my exotic infusions with you! So for this first post, I will discuss how to prepare the perfect cup of tea to make sure your new blends are at their best.
Black Tea vs. Herbal Tea
When most people think of tea, they picture black or green tea leaves — both of which contain caffeine and brew fairly quickly. Herbal tea, however, is a different experience altogether. Made from dried herbs, flowers, fruits, and spices, herbal infusions are naturally caffeine‑free and often take longer to release their full flavour. Unlike finely cut black or green teas, the larger pieces of herbs and fruit in herbal blends need more time to infuse, rewarding you with a richer, more vibrant taste.
Choosing Your Blend
Start with your choice of blend, Creole Belle-Hélène or Hibiscus Cosmopolitan tea. Measure one tea scoop (about 2 teaspoons). This gives you a balanced starting point. From there, adjust the quantity to suit your personal taste — a little less for a lighter cup, a little more for a stronger infusion.
Water Temperature Matters
Herbal teas are best brewed with water just off the boil. For a cup of Hibiscus Cosmopolitan, aim for 90–95°C rather than a rolling boil. This temperature helps the hibiscus flower and cranberry release their flavours gently, without becoming bitter or flat. On the other hand, the cacao husk in Creole Belle-Hélène can withstand boiling water for full flavour extraction, but if you wish to preserve the cacao's antioxidant you might prefer to use water just before boiling point too. Finally, for enhanced flavour and aroma as well as greater clarity in your cup, you can use filtered water.
Brewing Time
Herbal tea generally needs more time than black or green tea. Five minutes is a good starting point. If you prefer a milder taste, try a shorter infusion. For a deeper, more pronounced flavour, let it steep longer. Remember: when brewing larger quantities in a teapot, the infusion time is usually a little longer than for a single cup.
- Cup with Infuser Basket: A roomy infuser basket allows the herbs and fruit to expand and infuse properly. Avoid small tea bombs — they tend to squash the ingredients and restrict flavour.
- Teapot Ritual: Brewing in a teapot adds a touch of ceremony, even if it is just for one. You can use a teapot with an integrated infuser basket or place the blend directly into the pot. Either way, the ritual of pouring and serving makes the experience feel special.
Brewing herbal tea is about slowing down and enjoying the process. With the right water temperature, a generous scoop of tea blend, and a little patience, you'll discover a cup that's both refreshing and comforting. Experiment with steeping times and quantities until you find your perfect balance — every infusion is a chance to create a moment of joy.
How do you enjoy your cup of tea? What is your favourite cup? Share a photo of your tea moment with @aliceblendsuk to share your experience with us!
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