Water Temperature, Without a Thermometer

Watch the bubbles and count the minutes off the boil, the way it has always been done. Most of it comes down to good water and a little patience.

Start with the water

A cup of tea is nearly all water, so whatever is in yours ends up in the cup. Filter it if the tap tastes of anything, and boil it only once.

Then give it time

Leaves need room and a few minutes to open. Taste as you go, and write down what you liked -- the next pot will be better for it.