Getting the right measurement of loose leaf tea is the foundation for a flavorful, balanced brew. Too much tea can make your cup bitter and overpowering, while too little can leave it weak and underwhelming. The key is knowing the right tea-to-water ratio, adjusting for tea type, and considering your personal taste preferences.
Below, you’ll find an easy-to-follow guide for measuring loose leaf tea — whether you’re brewing a single cup, a pot for guests, or a refreshing iced tea.
The general guideline for brewing hot tea is:
2 grams of loose leaf tea per 8 ounces (1 cup) of water
This standard is used by professional tea tasters and ensures consistent results. However, since not everyone has a kitchen scale handy, you can convert weight to volume:
Measuring Guide for Different Tea Types
| Tea Type | Weight (per 8 oz water) | Volume (per 8 oz water) |
|---|
| Black Tea | 2 grams | 1 tablespoon |
| Black Tea Blends (Earl Grey, Chai) | 2 grams | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Tea | 2 grams | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Tea Blends | 2 grams | 1 tablespoon |
| White Tea | 2 grams | 1 tablespoon |
| Oolong Tea | 2 grams | 1 tablespoon |
| Herbal Tea (Chamomile, Peppermint, Hibiscus) | 2 grams | 1 tablespoon |
Loose leaf tea is not one-size-fits-all. Leaf size, cut, and blend ingredients can change how much fits into a tablespoon. Here’s what to consider:
Larger, whole leaves (like white tea or whole oolong) take up more space and may require a heaping tablespoon. Rolled or tightly curled leaves are denser, so you may need less by volume.
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Finely chopped teas brew stronger and faster, so you can use slightly less by volume.
Teas scented or infused with flavor (like jasmine or bergamot) may not need as much leaf if you want a subtle taste.
Delicate herbs like chamomile may require more tea to release flavor, while strong herbs like peppermint need less.
Type of water you use can impact how much tea you need. Hard water with high mineral content can mute delicate flavors, meaning you may need slightly more tea to achieve a balanced taste. Soft or filtered water allows the tea’s natural flavors to shine, so you might use the standard measurement or even slightly less.
