How to Make Black Tea | Types & 3 perfect Brewing Tips
It is considered one of the most loved beverages in the world. The reasons for its popularity are bold flavor, rich history, and availability in various types. According to your taste, You can choose your favorite type based on your taste. It started in China back in the 17th century and then became popular in several countries. This delicious drink offers several flavors and varieties, such as Assam, Darjeeling, and Earl Grey.
In this article, we will explore in detail these aspects what is black tea? Its types, how to brew it perfectly, and many ways to enjoy it at home.
What is Black Tea?
It is a special type of tea that has a dark color and a strong taste. Most people like it because it has a rich flavor and can be enjoyed hot or cold. By adding milk, sugar, or lemon, you can make it more enjoyable. It was first made in China in the mid-17th century.
Black tea comes from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. This drink is considered a dark and strong type of tea made from leaves that are dried and oxidized properly. This plant is also a source of several other such teas.
Unlike black tea, green tea is not completely oxidized, so it looks lighter and tastes milder. This method gives this drink a rich color and bold flavor.
Types of Black Teas
There are several popular kinds of black tea, such as Assam, Darjeeling, and Earl Grey. Each type has its unique taste, from malty and bold to floral and light. The place where the tea is grown affects its taste, giving each type a unique flavor and aroma. Its varieties offer a wide range of flavors for everyone to enjoy in their daily life.
| Tea Name | Color | Flavor | Taste | Where It’s From |
| Assam | Dark brown | Malty | Strong and bold | India |
| Darjeeling | Light golden | Floral and fruity | Light and smooth | India |
| Ceylon | Bright orange | Citrus | Tangy and fresh | Sri Lanka |
| Earl Grey | Deep brown | Citrus (Bergamot) | Fresh and lemony | England (Blend) |
| English Breakfast | Dark red-brown | Strong and malty | Bold and rich | England (Blend) |
| Keemun | Deep red | Fruity and floral | Sweet and gentle | China |
| Lapsang Souchong | Dark amber | Smoky | Bold and smoky | China |
| Yunnan Black Tea | Golden brown | Sweet and spicy | Smooth and earthy | China |
| Masala Chai | Dark brown | Spicy (Cinnamon) | Sweet and spicy | India (Blend) |
| Nilgiri | Bright golden | Fresh and floral | Crisp and refreshing | India |
The best drink from these depends on what you like. Earl Grey is famous for its citrus fruity flavor. Darjeeling is called the “Champagne of Teas” because it is fancy and light. If someone wants to enjoy strong, try Assam or English Breakfast.
How to make Black Tea
How long to steep Black Tea
You can steep these leaves or bag tea for 3 to 5 minutes in hot water. If you love a lighter taste, steep it for 3 minutes. If you prefer a stronger taste, steep it for up to 5 minutes. Steeping it for a long time can make it bitter. Therefore, try to avoid steeping it for too long.
Step by step guide how to make it:
3 Ways to Enjoy Black Tea
Black Tea with Milk
It is used to make several popular beverages by adding various ingredients. The most common way to enjoy it is by adding milk to it. This delicious and creamy tea is perfect to enjoy in hot and cold weather. You can also add sweeteners like sugar and honey, making them a more flavorful drink. This combination also leads to making the most lovely drink, like bubble tea, by adding tapioca pearls. It will increase fun and twists.
Iced Black Tea
The second way to enjoy a black drink is by converting it into iced tea. It is more refreshing and tasty than others, especially on hot days. This classic drink is prepared by brewing strong black tea leaves and cooling them with ice. It can be made more tasty with lemon, popular sweeteners, or even a fruit-type taste like peach and berries. These cool beverages are perfect for warm days and are liked globally for their popularity and cool nature.
Black Sugar Milk Tea
If you want to enjoy more fun can try black sugar milk tea. It is a combination of black tea, milk and syrup that is made from black sugar (unrefined). Whether you prefer hot, cold, or creamy tea with milk can try any of these depending on your personal preference. Due to several things, this drink is beloved worldwide few are here.