Refreshing green tea with lemon

Green tea (Camellia sinensis) leaves are unfermented, preserving their fresh, grassy character and high antioxidant content. The most critical point in preparation is temperature: water that is too hot 'shocks' the leaves and releases bitter tannins. Lemon acidity not only harmonises in flavour but chemically helps stabilize antioxidants, making them more bioavailable.
🕒 Prep Time 2 mins
🍳 Cook Time 5 mins
Total Time 7 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 35 kcal
🌍 Cuisine International

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Kettle
  • Teapot or heatproof jug
  • Sieve (if using loose tea)

Instructions

1

Boil the water, then open the kettle lid and wait approx. 5-8 minutes until water temperature cools to 80°C.

Tip: 80°C is the ideal point where aromas are released but bitter tannins remain in the leaf.
2

Place tea leaves in the pot and pour water over them. Steep for exactly 2-3 minutes.

Tip: Watch the leaves unfurl and dance in the water – this is the 'agony of the leaves' as they release flavour.
3

Strain the tea (or remove bag). Do not squeeze the bag as this presses bitter substances into the tea!

Tip: Tea leaves are 'sponges'; squeezing extracts unwanted flavours.
4

Wait until tea cools to approx. 60°C, then add lemon juice and honey.

Tip: Tea colour becomes lighter with lemon acid – a natural pH indicator reaction.
5

Pour into cups and drop in a slice of fresh lemon.

Tip: Essential oils released from lemon peel complete the aroma.

Recipe FAQ

Why is my tea bitter?
You likely poured 100°C water on it or steeped it longer than 3 minutes. Green tea is delicate; watch time and temperature!
When should I add lemon?
When the tea is at drinking temperature. Lemon flavour can change in water that is too hot, and Vitamin C breaks down.

Ingredients

  • 5 g Loose green tea (or 2 quality bags)
  • 500 ml Water (preferably soft water)
  • 20 ml Fresh lemon juice
  • 10 g Honey (optional)
  • 2 slices Lemon slice (for garnish)