Hot tea is a beverage made by steeping the leaves, buds, or flowers of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) or other herbal ingredients in hot water. It is one of the most widely consumed drinks in the world and comes in various types and flavors.

Types of Hot Tea:

  1. True Teas (from Camellia sinensis):
    • Green Tea: Light, fresh, and slightly grassy flavor. High in antioxidants.
    • Black Tea: Bold and robust with a stronger caffeine content.
    • Oolong Tea: Partially oxidized, offering a flavor between green and black tea.
    • White Tea: Delicate and lightly processed, with a subtle flavor.
    • Pu-erh Tea: Aged and fermented, with a rich, earthy taste.
  2. Herbal Teas (tisanes, not from tea plant):
    • Made from herbs, flowers, fruits, or spices, such as chamomile, peppermint, or hibiscus.

Preparation:

  1. Boil water (temperature depends on the tea type).
  2. Pour the hot water over the tea leaves, bag, or sachet in a cup or teapot.
  3. Steep for the recommended time (usually 2–5 minutes, depending on the type of tea).
  4. Remove the tea leaves or bag.
  5. Optionally, add sweeteners, lemon, milk, or honey.

Tea can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with various ingredients to suit individual preferences. It’s a comforting drink often associated with relaxation or rituals, like afternoon tea.

Image from Wikipedia