Discover the secrets to brewing the perfect cup of chamomile tea with this ultimate guide. From water temperature to steeping time, we've got you covered!
Chamomile tea is a popular herbal tea known for its calming and soothing properties. But did you know that brewing the perfect cup of chamomile tea requires some attention to detail? In this ultimate guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about brewing the perfect cup of chamomile tea, from water temperature to steeping time.
Choose high-quality chamomile tea
The first step to brewing the perfect cup of chamomile tea is to choose high-quality tea. Look for chamomile tea that is made from whole flowers, rather than tea bags that contain crushed flowers or stems. Whole flowers will provide a more flavourful and aromatic cup of tea. Additionally, choose organic chamomile tea to avoid any potential exposure to pesticides or other harmful chemicals. When selecting chamomile tea, it’s also important to consider the source. Look for tea that is sourced from reputable growers and producers. Some of the best chamomile tea comes from Egypt, where the climate and soil are ideal for growing this delicate herb. You can also look for fair trade and sustainable options to support ethical and environmentally-friendly practices. By choosing high-quality chamomile tea, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and soothing cup of tea that is both healthy and sustainable. Chamomile tea can also be made at home using both fresh or dried flowers, depending on what is best for you. The daisy-like flowers can be found at many shops that sell plants such as garden centres. Remove the head of the flowers from the stem, then, either make your own teabag for steeping or boil the flowers loosely in your teapot and strain them prior to serving. You could also use an infuser to contain the florals if you don’t want them floating in your water.
Boil water to the right temperature
The temperature of the water you use to brew your chamomile tea is crucial to achieving the perfect cup. Water that is too hot can scorch the delicate chamomile flowers, while water that is too cool won't extract enough flavour. The recommended water to dried flower ratio is about 250 mil of water to three or four tablespoons of the flower. The ideal temperature for brewing chamomile tea is between 200-212°F (93-100°C). You can use a thermometer to ensure the water is at the correct temperature, or simply bring the water to a boil and let it cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the tea.
Steep the tea for the right amount of time
Once you've got the water temperature right, it's time to steep your chamomile tea. The ideal steeping time for chamomile tea is between 5-10 minutes. Steeping for too long can result in a bitter taste, while steeping for too short a time may not extract enough flavour. Set a timer to ensure you get the perfect cup every time. And remember, the longer you steep your tea, the stronger the flavour will be.
Use the right amount of tea leaves
When making chamomile tea, it’s important to use the right amount of tea leaves to ensure a delicious and balanced flavour. Using too few leaves can result in a weak and watery tea, while using too many can make it bitter and overpowering. As a general rule, one teaspoon of loose leaf chamomile tea or one tea bag is enough for one cup of water. However, if you prefer a stronger flavour, you can add more tea leaves. Just be sure to adjust the steeping time accordingly, as a stronger tea will require a longer steeping time. With a little experimentation, you can find the perfect amount of tea leaves to suit your taste buds and enjoy a delicious cup of chamomile tea every time.
Add additional ingredients to enhance the taste of chamomile tea
In your cup, you will find a rich, golden-hued brew with a sweet apple-like taste and scent. Having brewed the wonderful cup of chamomile tea, you may want to add a little additional flavour. Honey is a popular choice as it adds a natural sweetness without overpowering the delicate chamomile flavour. Lemon is also a great choice as it adds a refreshing citrus twist. Simply add a teaspoon of honey or a squeeze of lemon to your cup and stir well. You can also add mint to the pot or your cup. Mint will lift the flavour and balance the sweetness with a refreshing note. Just remember to not add too much mint, you will only need a couple of fresh leaves of mint. We recommend to either opt for honey, or for mint, as using both can distract you from the natural flavour of chamomile petals. While some teas pair perfectly with milk, this tea is not the one to try this trick with. Enjoy!
You can find a selection of chamomile based teas in our Good Night Tea Set and find out more about 7 best night time teas for sleep on our blog. If you are a fan of chamomile tea, check out our blog on iced chamomile tea recipes.