A tea infuser is the simplest way to switch from tea bags to loose leaf tea, which usually tastes fresher and fuller. Here is how to use one, how much tea to add, and which kind of infuser to buy.
The Short Answer
Fill the infuser no more than halfway with 1 teaspoon (2 to 3 g) of loose tea per 8 oz of water, pour hot water at the right temperature over it, steep for the recommended time, then lift the infuser out so the tea does not turn bitter.
Step by Step
- Heat water to the right temperature (see chart).
- Add 1 teaspoon of tea per cup to the infuser, leaving room for the leaves to expand.
- Place it in your mug or teapot and pour the water over.
- Steep for the recommended time.
- Remove the infuser, tap out the leaves, and rinse.
Water Temperature and Steep Time
| Tea | Water | Steep |
|---|---|---|
| Black | 200 to 212°F | 3 to 5 min |
| Green | 160 to 180°F | 2 to 3 min |
| White | 170 to 185°F | 2 to 4 min |
| Oolong | 185 to 205°F | 3 to 5 min |
| Herbal | 212°F | 5 to 7 min |
Types of Tea Infusers
- Infuser balls: simple and cheap, like the long-handle stainless steel tea infuser ball. Best for small-leaf tea.
- Basket infusers: give large leaves room to open; many teapots include one.
- Built-in teapot infusers: like the glass teapot with magnetic tea separation.
- Travel infusers: the titanium camping mug with strainer brews tea anywhere.
Cleaning
Tap out leaves right away, rinse, and occasionally soak in warm water with baking soda to remove tannin stains.
Equipment I Used
- 360-degree rotating spice rack: keeps every spice within reach.
Planning a busy week? The Slow Cooking for Busy Days guide covers time-saving slow cooker recipes and meal planning.
Tea Infuser FAQ
How much loose tea do I put in an infuser?
About 1 teaspoon (2 to 3 g) per 8 oz cup. Fill the infuser no more than halfway.
Can you reuse tea leaves?
Yes, many green, oolong and pu-erh teas can be steeped 2 or 3 times.
Why does my tea taste bitter?
The water was too hot or the tea steeped too long.
Are stainless steel tea infusers safe?
Yes. Food-grade stainless steel does not affect flavor.
