Orange and Mint Tea: How to Brew a Zesty Cup
By Ayudra | Wellness & Herbal Teas | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to brew a bold, refreshing cup of orange mint tea with whole leaf Assam black tea. Step-by-step guide with tips for perfect balance.
Quick Answer
For a zesty, balanced cup of orange mint tea, steep whole leaf Assam black tea with mint and orange peel at 200°F for 3–4 minutes, then strain and enjoy hot or iced.
Why Whole Leaf Assam Matters
The base of this tea is whole leaf Assam black tea, which gives a strong, rich body that stands up to the mint and orange flavors. Finer tea dust or broken leaves can turn bitter when steeped with citrus, so whole leaf ensures a smooth, robust cup without harshness.
Balancing Mint and Orange
Mint cools and brightens the black tea, while orange peel adds a natural citrus sweetness. The key is not to overdo either: too much mint can overwhelm the tea, and too much orange can make it tart. A 1:1 ratio of mint to orange peel by volume works well for most tastes.
How to Brew Orange Mint Tea
- 1. Boil Fresh Water: Heat filtered water to 200°F (just below a full rolling boil). Using water that is too hot can scorch the mint and orange, making the tea taste flat. Check your kettle temperature; if you don't have a thermometer, let boiling water sit for 30 seconds before pouring.
- 2. Measure the Tea: Use 1 teaspoon of Orange and Mint Tea blend per 8 oz cup. If you prefer a stronger brew, add another half teaspoon, but avoid overloading—the Assam base is already bold. Start with the recommended amount; you can always add more tea, but you can't take it out once it's steeped.
- 3. Steep for 3–4 Minutes: Pour the hot water over the tea and cover the cup or teapot to keep the heat in. Steep for exactly 3 minutes for a balanced cup, or 4 minutes for a stronger, more robust flavor. Longer steeping can release bitterness from the black tea. Set a timer—steeping by eye often leads to over-extraction and a harsh taste.
- 4. Strain and Serve: Remove the tea leaves or strain the blend into your cup. Taste before adding any sweetener; the orange peel provides natural sweetness. For an iced version, pour over ice immediately after steeping. If you're making iced tea, double the tea amount to compensate for dilution from the ice.
About the Tea
- Orange and Mint Tea: Orange and Mint Tea is a bold yet refreshing blend crafted from whole leaf Assam black tea, known for its strong body and rich flavor. Whole leaf Assam provides a sturdy base that holds up to the mint and orange, giving you a smooth, invigorating cup without bitterness.
Orange and Mint Tea
