Tea answers
Your next pour, sorted
Quick fixes for the questions that come up most at the kitchen counter. Short answers, practical steps, no fuss.
Why does my iced tea taste bitter?
It was most likely steeped too long or with water that was too hot. Shorten the steep by a minute, drop green tea water to around 80 °C, or switch to cold brew – it extracts far fewer harsh tannins. See the brewing comparison.
Why does iced tea go cloudy?
When strong hot tea cools slowly, compounds in the tea bind together and cloud the liquid. It is harmless, just less pretty. Chill it fast over ice or cold brew it to keep it clear.
How long does homemade iced tea keep?
Kept covered in the fridge, plain iced tea is best within about two days. Tea with fresh fruit or herbs is best the same day or the next – the fresh notes fade and the fruit softens.
What is the best way to sweeten iced tea?
Use a liquid sweetener. Simple syrup, honey syrup or a flavoured syrup like rosemary mixes straight in, while sugar crystals sink to the bottom of cold tea.
What ratio should I use for sparkling tea?
Start with one part chilled triple-strength concentrate to two parts chilled sparkling water. Go lighter for white tea, stronger for smoky or malty teas. Full details on the sparkling page.
Can I make caffeine-free iced tea?
Yes. Rooibos, hibiscus and herbal infusions such as lemon verbena or mint contain no caffeine and work beautifully iced. Try the watermelon hibiscus.
Are all the drinks on this site non-alcoholic?
Yes, every one. We also avoid fermented sodas that may contain trace alcohol and suggest checking that any ginger beer you buy is labelled alcohol-free.
Can I use teabags instead of loose tea?
Yes. Use four to five standard teabags per litre. They are especially handy for cold brew – just lift them out instead of straining.
How do I stop iced tea going watery?
Brew strong, chill the tea before it meets the ice, use large cubes and try ice cubes made from tea. Your last sip should taste as good as the first.