Black tea in a few words
All teas come from the same shrub, cultivated since ancient times: Camellia sinensis. The leaves and buds of this tree are harvested and oxidised to varying degrees to produce white, green, black and oolong teas. The longer tea leaves are allowed to oxidise, the darker the tea becomes. This is the case with black tea. This intense oxidation allows the leaves to withstand a longer infusion in boiling water. Other less oxidised teas, such as green tea, are more delicate and are prepared in water that does not reach boiling point. The production of black tea therefore follows a very precise process.
Black tea infusion time
When preparing black tea, tea leaves in contact with boiling water release powerful antioxidants, including catechins. Depending on your preferences, you can adjust the infusion time of your black tea. It is recommended to use 2.5 grams of tea for 15 cl of hot water, or half a teaspoon of tea. If you like your drink bitter, you can add an extra half teaspoon. Black tea should infuse in boiling water for three to five minutes, and up to 7 minutes for a more intense flavour. If you prefer a lighter taste, simply reduce the infusion time of your black tea.
Pay attention to water quality
Water quality is the foundation of a successful tea. Water that is too hard will affect the taste and aromas of your drink. Water that is too hot will damage the tea leaves and reduce their benefits. Water that is too cold will not allow the flavours to develop. This is why water temperature is also very important.
Avoid thermal shocks
Tea leaves are very delicate, and excessive temperature variations can affect their quality. It is therefore best to avoid thermal shocks.
How to make a good black tea: preparation steps
There are many ways to prepare black tea; however, a few unchanging rules will ensure a successful drink every time. Discover our method for preparing tea properly.
-
Heat water in a kettle to a temperature between 80°C and 95°C. Avoid a higher temperature, as this could damage the tea leaves and aromas. Conversely, a lower temperature will not allow the tea to infuse properly.
-
If your black tea is in a sachet, pour the hot water into the cup containing it. If your black tea is loose-leaf, place the tea leaves in an infuser or tea ball. Then pour in your hot water. Allow around 2.5 grams of tea leaves for 15 cl of water.
-
Black tea requires a long infusion time. Between 2 and 4 minutes is generally recommended. For an Oolong tea, allow 2 to 3 minutes; for a Darjeeling or Earl Grey, 2 to 4 minutes will suffice; for a smoked black tea, you can extend the infusion time to 7 minutes.
Good to know:
Loose-leaf tea releases its aromas more slowly than tea in a sachet. For a more indulgent drink, you can add a splash of milk. Spiced teas require a shorter infusion time because of their many aromas, so that the bitterness of the black tea does not take over.
Black tea and its flavours
Depending on the region where it is grown, black tea can offer a different flavour, ranging from bitter to slightly sweet. It may feature floral, fruity, hazelnut or even caramel notes. Note that there are flavoured teas, such as the famous Earl Grey, a bergamot black tea born in England.
To release all the aromas of a black tea, the secret is to use a larger quantity of leaves in your cup and infuse it at the right temperature.
Black tea and its benefits
Black tea leaves have many health benefits. They are said to have stimulating properties and to be beneficial for digestion. Thanks to their antioxidant richness, they may also help combat the development of certain cardiovascular diseases and premature cell ageing.
Kusmi Tea, organic black tea & Made in France
Discover organic black tea and Kusmi Tea flavoured black teas, a range of delicious flavours made in our workshops in Normandy. As part of our commitment to sustainable agriculture and a healthy lifestyle, all our products are certified organic. This certification guarantees numerous quality controls and a pesticide-free product grown with respect for the environment.
Black tea can be enjoyed in different ways depending on the infusion time and the quantity of leaves used. Once you have found the perfect balance, you may wish to prepare your black tea with other ingredients such as milk or sugar.