The French Madam’s Iced Tea Secret: A 21-Minute Steep with Japanese Grace
- Asako
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
I recently came across an article about iced tea on the Japanese lifestyle online magazine, mi-mollet, and I couldn’t resist trying it. The preparation was simple, yet surprisingly precise: steep 3 to 4 tea bags (depending on the brand) in freshly boiled water after turning off the heat. Cover the pot and let the tea steep for exactly 21 minutes, not 20, not 22. That 21-minute mark is key.
Once steeped, gently remove the tea bags. This small act, removing them with care which helps avoid bitterness and brings out the elegance of the tea. It reminded me of the Japanese spirit of “omotenashi”, the art of thoughtful hospitality where even the smallest gesture carries meaning.
I chilled the tea overnight, and the next day, it had transformed into a fragrant, full-bodied iced tea that refreshed not only my body but also my mind. It was so vivid that it brought back a summer memory from 30 years ago, a tiny café in Nagano prefecture, where I drank iced tea so rich I asked if it had honey. The owner said, “Maybe it’s just the clean water.”
That comment stayed with me. Sometimes, what we put into our bodies, something as simple as a cup of tea can lift the spirit, too.
The Science Behind a Cup of Black Tea
Interestingly, there’s growing scientific interest in how warm black tea may help support the immune system and possibly reduce the risk of infection, particularly colds and influenza.
1. Antiviral properties from theaflavins in black tea
While green tea is known for its catechins, black tea contains antioxidants, theaflavins and thearubigins (produced during the fermentation stage of tea production), which also show antiviral effects. A 2005 study from Nara Medical University in Japan suggested that black tea extract may help prevent influenza virus infection.
2. Soothing the throat and reducing virus adhesionDrinking warm tea can help moisturize and protect the throat lining, which may act as a barrier against viral intrusion. One Japanese study reported that gargling with black tea reduced the incidence of influenza.
3. Immune system support via polyphenols and L-theanine
Black tea also contains L-theanine, an amino acid known for its calming properties and potential immune-boosting effects, specifically activating natural killer (NK) cells.
A Note of Caution:
For those sensitive to caffeine, decaffeinated black tea or herbal alternatives like rooibos can be excellent options. And of course, tea isn’t a magic cure. True prevention includes balanced nutrition, quality sleep, and good hygiene practices like handwashing and gargling.
Ingredients:
<Serves 1.5-2 liters>
3–4 black tea bags (Darjeeling, Ceylon, or your favorite black tea, adjust depending on strength)
2 liters water, for the best flavor, use filtered or pure natural spring water
Instructions:
Bring 2 liters of water to a boil, then turn off the heat.
Add 3–4 tea bags to the hot water.
Cover the pot or container and let it steep for exactly 21 minutes.
Gently remove the tea bags without squeezing them. This keeps the tea smooth and avoids bitterness , a small act of grace that makes a big difference.
Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
Serve over ice with lemon slices or herbs if desired.
Posted on May 31st, 2025
Comentários