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How to Make Mint Tea

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Fresh mint tea is a simple, aromatic herbal drink made by steeping mint leaves in hot water. Enjoy it warm or chilled, plain or flavored with honey and fresh lemon.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 packed cup fresh mint leaves and tender stems
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons honey or sugar, optional
  • 1 to 2 lemon slices, optional
  • Extra fresh mint leaves, optional for serving

Instructions

  1. Rinse the fresh mint thoroughly under cool running water and gently pat it dry. Remove any damaged leaves while keeping the tender stems.
  2. Place the mint in a teapot, heat-safe pitcher, or large measuring cup. Gently press or tear some of the leaves to release their aromatic oils.
  3. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, remove it from the heat, and let it sit briefly.
  4. Pour the hot water over the mint and cover the container. Steep for 5–10 minutes, depending on the desired strength.
  5. Strain the tea into cups and discard the steeped mint. Stir in honey or sugar while warm if desired, and add lemon to taste.
  6. Serve immediately while warm with additional fresh mint or lemon if desired. For iced mint tea, cool the strained tea, refrigerate until chilled, and serve over ice.

Notes

  • Lightly bruise the mint rather than crushing it aggressively to release its aroma without overworking the leaves.
  • For a lighter tea, steep for about 5 minutes; for stronger mint flavor, steep for up to 10 minutes.
  • Dried mint can be substituted using approximately 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup of water.
  • Pure mint tea made only with mint and water is naturally caffeine-free.
  • For iced tea, brew the mint slightly stronger to account for dilution from the ice.
  • Store strained leftover tea covered in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Reheat gently without repeatedly boiling.

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