Although it may not seem like something you want to tackle as a newcomer to the world of tea leaves, making your own tea can be a great way to experiment with different flavors and create a unique tea that you might not find in a store. Even if the blend is simple and classic, making it yourself gives it that special homemade feeling.
Depending on the season or your preference in taste, you can start with black tea leaves or green tea leaves as the base for your blend. You can also start with other types of tea leaves but for starters, the classic flavors of black and green teas can be easier to start with. Many blends usually start off using black tea leaves and then go on to add different spices and a variety of dried fruits. Your creations can be served hot in the winter and over ice in the summer, allowing you to make teas year-round.
Here are some sample recipes to get you started. Remember that creating a tea blend calls for creativity, so don't be afraid to try different combinations in order to find those that will remain your favorites for years to come!
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Here are some ideas to get those creative wheels turning...
Fall Spiced Blend When the weather starts getting cool and the trees' leaves change color, getting cozy with a hot mug of spiced tea is the perfect autumn pastime. Try mixing black teas with dried apple bits and cinnamon stick to create the perfect fall comfort. 1/2 cup black tea leaves 1 teaspoon dried apple 1 teaspoon crushed cinnamon stick | Holiday Blend As December rolls around the corner and the time comes to gather with close friends and family, a holiday tea blend is comforting and seasonal. Try blending flavors like orange, cinnamon and nutmeg that will warm you as you create new holiday memories. 1/2 cup black tea leaves 1 teaspoon crushed cinnamon stick 1 teaspoon dried orange peel 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg |
Summer Blend In the warm summer months you will be more inclined to create a tea that can be enjoyed iced and will be a refreshing treat to drink by the pool or after a long hot day. Blend together green tea leaves, fresh berries and some mint (optional) to create the perfect iced tea. 1/2 cup green tea leaves 1 teaspoon dried mint leaves 1 teaspoon dried raspberries 1 teaspoon dried peaches | Wellness Blend When you're not feeling well, a hot cup of tea can work wonders for soothing a sore throat and simply bringing your spirits back up. Mix black or green tea leaves with lemon peel and ginger root (and optional garlic), finishing the brewed tea with a tablespoon of honey. 1/2 cup black or green tea leaves 1 teaspoon dried lemon peel 1 teaspoon ginger root |
After creating your tea blend, it is important to store it in an airtight container, such as a tea tin, in order to keep the flavor and quality of the mix from becoming stale. Like other teas, your blend will maintain it's flavor best within the first six to twelve months but, if not stored correctly, may start to lose quality after about a year.
When using your blend to brew a cup of tea, use about 1- 1 1/2 teaspoons of the blend per cup.