Recipe

Start your morning with the timeless tradition of a perfectly brewed cup of black tea. Our Original Black Tea Grounds create a robust, full-bodied breakfast tea with rich malty notes and natural sweetness—the ideal companion to your morning routine.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Riverboat Tea Original Black Tea Grounds
• 8 oz fresh filtered water
• Milk or cream (optional)
• Honey, sugar, or sweetener of choice (optional)
• Lemon slice (optional)

Brewing Instructions

1. Brew: Use a coffee maker or heat fresh, filtered water to 200-212°F (full boil).
2. Measure tea: Add 1 tablespoon of Original Black Tea Grounds to your teapot, infuser, or French press (if not using a coffee maker).
3. Steep: Pour hot water over tea grounds and steep for 3-5 minutes. For a stronger, more robust flavor, steep for the full 5 minutes. For a lighter cup, steep for 3 minutes (if not using a coffee maker).
4. Strain: Remove tea grounds or infuser to prevent over-steeping (if not using a coffee maker).
5. Customize: Add milk, sweetener, or a squeeze of lemon to taste.
6. Enjoy: Serve immediately in your favorite mug.

Pro Brewing Tips

Always use fresh, cold water for the best flavor—avoid re-boiling water as it reduces oxygen and creates a flat taste. Black tea can handle boiling water, so don't worry about scorching the leaves. For the traditional English breakfast style, brew strong and add a splash of milk and sugar. To appreciate the tea's natural complexity, try it plain first before adding anything.

Perfect Breakfast Pairings

This classic black tea pairs beautifully with eggs, bacon, toast with jam, oatmeal, scones, muffins, or any hearty breakfast. The robust flavor stands up well to rich foods and complements both sweet and savory morning dishes. It's also perfect alongside pancakes, waffles, or a full American breakfast spread.

Health Benefits

Black tea contains antioxidants called theaflavins and thearubigins that support heart health. It provides a moderate caffeine boost (about 40-70mg per cup) for sustained morning energy without the jitters. Regular black tea consumption may support mental alertness, digestive health, and immune function.

Brewing Variations

English Breakfast Style: Brew for 5 minutes, add milk and 1 teaspoon sugar.
Pure & Bold: Enjoy black with no additions to taste the tea's natural malty, slightly sweet notes.
Lemon & Honey: Add fresh lemon juice and honey for a soothing, vitamin C-rich variation.