A pot of Tea For The Party
If you're hosting a baby shower, or a tea themed shower, and you'd like to serve tea. Here's how to make a good cup of tea.
To make tea you will need
Black tea, loose - English tea like PG Tips, Yorkshire or Twinings tea would be a good choice.
Teakettle
Teapot
Teacups and saucers
Tea strainer
Cold milk
Granulated sugar or white sugar cubes (optional)
How to make tea
Step 1 - Fill a teakettle with fresh cold tap water. Then put it on to boil.
Step 2 - When the kettle has nearly boiled. Pour a little of the hot water into a teapot and swirl the water around - to warm the pot.
Step 3 - Continue to let the kettle boil. Meanwhile empty the pot; then into the pot put a half to one teaspoon of tea for each person to be served, plus 'one for the pot' – but remember to keep in mind how many cups your teapot is designed to make.
Step 4 - When the kettle has boiled immediately pour the boiling water over the tea - so the teapot is about three-quarters or so full.
Step 5 - Agitate the tea with a spoon - but don't stir, as there is an old English proverb that says 'If you stir the pot then you stir your troubles'. Then put the lid on the teapot, and allow the tea to stand (steep) for about 2 or 3 minutes.
Step 6 - Pour the tea into teacups through a tea strainer (to catch the leaves).
Step 7 - To serve, add a little cold milk, and if desired a sugar cube or a spoonful of sugar. Then stir with a teaspoon. Alternatively fill a creamer with some cold milk, and a sugar bowl with granulated sugar or white sugar cubes, so that your guests can help themselves.
Cook's tip
Remember to keep in mind, that depending on how many cups of tea your teapot is designed to make, you might not be able to serve everyone at once, so you may have to top up the teapot with some more boiling water, or to make a fresh pot. Also don't forget that a tea cozy will help to keep your tea warm.