Hello,
The short:
Oops I steeped my loose leaf black tea for an hour! Should I start again?
The long:
I have made a few batches of Kombucha which have turned out well. I started a new batch and poured 750ml boiled water into my teapot with 1/2 cup sugar, 4 teaspoons loose leaf black tea (English Breakfast blend) and intended to steep for 10 minutes. I forgot to remove the tea and about 1 hour later I realised and removed the tea.
Should I brew a new batch of sweet tea or do you think it will be ok?
I guess the main issue is tannins & bitterness but not sure whether or not this will be an issue? I’m guessing loose leaf tea may be more forgiving then cheap tea bags.
Normally I remove the tea after 10 minutes, let it cool and then add 750ml water and 1 cup starter liquid from the previous batch.
I have seen various different recipes that suggest anything from 5-15 minutes and even up to 30 minutes steeping for black tea.
Look forward to hearing your thoughts and suggestions.
Many thanks!