How Much Loose Tea Per Cup? A Guide to Tea-to-Water Ratios
Brewing the perfect cup of loose-leaf tea is an art, and one of the most critical factors is the tea-to-water ratio. Different types of tea require different ratios to unlock their unique flavors, aromas, and textures. Below, we break down the ideal measurements for various tea categories—with conversions to fluid ounces for easy reference.
1. Green Tea
General Ratio: 1:50 to 1:60 (1 gram of tea per 50–60 mL water)
Example: 3 grams of tea → 150–180 mL water (≈5–6 fl oz).
Why It Works:
Green tea leaves are delicate and minimally oxidized. Too much tea can over-extract bitter compounds, overpowering the tea’s natural freshness and grassy sweetness. Stick to this range for a light, floral, and refreshing brew.
2. Black Tea
Common Ratio: ~1:50
Example: 5 grams of tea → 250 mL water (≈8.5 fl oz).
Factors to Consider:
Black tea is fully oxidized, giving it a bold, malty flavor. While some drinkers prefer a stronger brew (e.g., 1:40), avoid oversteeping or using too much tea, as it can lead to harsh bitterness.
3. Oolong Tea
Varies by Type:
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Lightly oxidized oolongs (e.g., Tieguanyin): 1:22–1:25
Example: 8 grams of tea → 180–200 mL water (≈6–6.7 fl oz). -
Heavily oxidized oolongs (e.g., Phoenix Dan Cong): 1:15–1:20
Example: 8 grams of tea → 120–160 mL water (≈4–5.4 fl oz).
Brewing Style:
Oolong is often brewed Gongfu-style, with short, repeated infusions. A precise ratio ensures balanced flavor extraction across multiple steeps.
4. Dark Tea (e.g., Pu-erh)
Standard Ratio: 1:40–1:50
Example: 8 grams of tea → 320–400 mL water (≈11–13.5 fl oz).
Aged Tea Exception:
Older dark teas (like aged pu-erh cakes) may require slightly more leaves (e.g., 1:30) due to their mellowed, earthy flavors after years of fermentation.
5. White Tea
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Young White Tea (e.g., Silver Needle): 1:50
Example: 5 grams → 250 mL water (≈8.5 fl oz). -
Aged White Tea: 1:30–1:40
Example: 5 grams → 150–200 mL water (≈5–6.7 fl oz).
Key Insight:
Aged white tea becomes richer over time, so a higher tea-to-water ratio helps highlight its honeyed, woody notes.
Tips for Customization
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Tweak to Taste: These ratios are guidelines—adjust based on your preference for strength.
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Use a Scale: Precision matters! A small kitchen scale ensures consistency.
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Consider Vessel Size: Match your tea quantity to your teapot or gaiwan capacity.
By mastering these ratios, you’ll elevate your tea experience, whether you’re sipping a delicate green tea or a robust pu-erh. Happy brewing!
These are some tea cups. Teacup collection.
Elephant pattern clay tea cup 140ml
