What is Black Tea?

Black tea is the most popular tea in the Western world. It is processed to be more oxidized than the green a white types. The infusion has a reddish-brown color so in other parts of the world it is also referred to as red tea.

Some of the most common varieties that you’ll find are: Assam and Ceylon, from India and Sri Lanka, respectively.

The Black tea you find in most stores is often either a mix of different varieties (English Breakfast, Irish Breakfast) or has other added products like bergamot oil (Earl Grey Tea) or spices (Masala Chai)

How does it taste like?

Black teas are usually the strongest in flavor. Assam has a strong malty, grainy flavor. Ceylon is crispier and somewhat citrusy.

How do I prepare it?

Use a heaping teaspoon of loose leaves for 8 ounces (or 240ml.) of water.

You can use boiling water with Black Tea, although I prefer a lower temperature of around 190°-200°F (=80°-90°C). Steeping time is about 4 to 5 minutes. Never let black tea steep for longer or else it would release its tannins and taste bitter. I’ve seen Iced Tea recipes that call for steeping times of 10-15 minutes and then add a ridiculous amount of sugar to make up for it. It doesn’t make any sense.

If you want, you can check out my other posts about green and white tea.