The art of the perfect brew

VfL Roving Chef Oliver Bragg ponders on the great British brew.

Do you love a good cup of tea? Whether we take it with milk, sugar, lemon or just plain, in Britain we certainly have a fondness for its flavour, drinking approximately 100 million cups every day.

National Tea Day on 21 April unites people of all tastes to pay homage to the drink. Its organisers say they plan to bring together tea drinkers, tea servers and the entire tea industry and inspire “special moments with tea”.

The day goes further than enjoying a good cuppa – it also celebrates workers within the industry. Working conditions for these people still need much improvement; the best way to do this is by helping to raise awareness to improve the human rights of workers and farmers within the sector. Maybe you could try some Fairtrade teas?

Brewing the perfect cuppa is a fine art. Here are some tips to producing a great cup of the nation's favourite tipple.

Time and temperature

Whether you prefer your tea in a bag or loose, always start with fresh cold water. If you use a teapot, first warm it inside with hot water, and then discard the water. 

Using tea bags

Bring your water to a boil and pour it over the tea as soon as it reaches boiling. Over-boiling will cause oxygen to be reduced and result in the tea tasting flat. Use 1 tea bag per cup, and steep the tea for 3–5 minutes.

Try not to judge the tea by its colour because flavour will take longer to develop.

Loose tea

Prepare by placing 1–2 teaspoons of loose tea into a tea strainer. Put the strainer into your cup, then pour the freshly boiling water directly over the leaves. If using a teapot, measure 1–2 teaspoons per 240ml of water.

If you take your tea with milk, simply finish your brew with your favourite vegan milk. I find barista milks work particularly well in tea because they are a bit thicker and creamier.

And once you've enjoyed that cuppa, why not celebrate National Cream Tea Day on 27 June? Here's a blog to help you create some sumptuous dairy-free fruit scones with cream.