Two: To make a stronger, more potent infusion, place the herbs in a pan of cold water. Cover with the lid and bring to a slow simmer over a very low heat. Remove from the heat just as the water begins to boil.
Three: It's sometimes necessary to let an infusion steep overnight. Follow the directions for either method one or two. Place the tea in a jar and let it sit overnight.
Two: Add the herbs to a pan of cold water. Bring to a slow boil over low heat. Simmer for 10 to 20 minutes. Remove, strain and cool slightly before drinking.
Three: To make a stronger tea, follow the directions above, but allow the decoction to steep overnight.
Here's how to make the perfect pot:
*Bring a kettle of cold water to a gentle rolling boil.
*Pour half a cup of the boiled water into your teapot (earthenware or china is best). Slowly roll it side to side to warm the inside of the pot, then discard.
*If you're using loose tea (the choice of most tea fanatics), measure one full teaspoon per cup of water into the teapot-plus one more for the pot.
*If you're using tea bags, use one tea bag per cup.
*Pour the boiling water over the tea.
*Steep for three to seven minutes, or according to taste. In general, the larger the leaf, the longer the brewing time. (But steeping too long may cause a bitter flavor).
*If you've brewed loose tea, pour the tea into cups using a tea strainer (available in most home centers).
*When brewing green tea, allow the water to cool for a few moments before pouring it over the tea.
*Finally, keep your tea warm with a tea cozy.
Iced tea-making follows the same rules as those of hot tea, but more tea should be used to make up for the melting ice cubes. Allow the tea to brew fully before pouring it into a pitcher filled with ice.
To improve and enhance the flavor of your beverage, try adding fresh fruit and citrus such as raspberries, strawberries, orange or lemon.
