How to Brew Green Tea Without Bitterness

2026-10-17 · Brewing

Green tea is delicate. Use boiling water and you will scald the leaves, releasing harsh bitterness and destroying the sweet, vegetal notes.

The Three Numbers

• Water temperature: 75–85°C (167–185°F). Let boiled water cool for a few minutes.
• Leaf to water ratio: about 3g per 150ml (a heaped teaspoon).
• Steeping time: 1–2 minutes for the first infusion; increase slightly each re-steep.

Step by Step

1. Warm your cup or gaiwan with hot water, then discard.
2. Add leaves, pour water at the right temperature.
3. Steep 1–2 minutes, then pour all the liquor out (don’t let leaves sit).
4. Good green tea can be re-steeped 2–3 times.

Tip

A simple kitchen thermometer removes the guesswork. Once you taste a properly brewed green tea, you will never go back to the bitter version.