In Western countries, the English are perceived as the nation of tea. They are passionate about it, a persistent stereotype – and, unlike many other stereotypes, one that is fully embraced and appreciated by those it targets. However, research conducted for British Science Week in 2015 revealed that only 16% of English people brewed their tea correctly. More than 80% of the population was therefore considered too impatient!
The result: their beloved cup of tea never reached its full potential.

According to the British Standards Institute, to fully release its bouquet of flavors, tea should be steeped for between 2 and 5 minutes. However, while this is generally considered a minimum, it's not an exact figure. More delicate teas often require a lower temperature and, consequently, a longer steeping time. A gentle and lengthy process... Green tea, on the other hand, is associated with a much shorter steeping time.

Other teas require higher temperatures and longer steeping times. Fruit teas can take between 6 and 8 minutes to fully infuse your water; rooibos teas, on the other hand, between 4 and 10 minutes. Some teas can steep in your teapot for even longer periods without becoming bitter. Fortunately, many teas come with labels and precise instructions regarding their ideal preparation method.

If you're in a hurry but don't want to miss out on your cup of tea, there's always a compromise: increase the amount of tea and reduce the steeping time to compensate. This will allow you to have a hot and flavorful brew quickly, without the bitterness.