8 Ingredients That Fix Bitter Tea In A Pinch - Tasting Table

"Have you ever brewed a cup of tea and only after taking a sip realized that it was way, way too bitter? You don't want to under-steep your tea, of course, as this makes for a watery cup, but bitter tea can be downright unpleasant. There are several reasons this can happen. For example, using low-quality tea, steeping the tea too long, using water that's too hot, or using water that just doesn't taste that good can make for a bitter cup of tea."

"It may seem like a quandary, but lemon juice is another common ingredient that can work just as well without making your tea too sweet. It can create a balanced cup with a small drizzle of liquid. The acidity in the lemon juice will reduce the flavor of bitterness, while adding a bright zing of flavor that can be nice in many types of tea (especially herbal tea)."

Using low-quality tea, steeping leaves too long, using water that's too hot, or using poor-tasting water can produce an overly bitter cup. Avoid under-steeping to prevent a watery brew. Acidic ingredients such as lemon juice can reduce perceived bitterness while adding bright citrus notes; lime juice can substitute. Avoid adding lemon slices with peel because the peel can increase bitterness. Sweeteners and other kitchen ingredients can restore balance and complexity. Maple syrup offers a liquid sweetener that adds depth and complexity beyond agave. Small adjustments with acidity or sweetness can rescue and improve an otherwise bitter cup of tea.

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