How to make the perfect Cuppa

Making tea can be a therapeutic moment of quiet in your day - a chance to relax and enjoy the magical reactions that lead to the perfect cup.

Whether you like your tea weak or strong, milky or black, take the time to develop your personal preference and to perfect the tea-making process.

Here is one way to make a pretty perfect cuppa.

Bring fresh water to the boil – avoid reboiling water, as it will affect the quality of the final cup of tea.

Once it has come to the boil, allow the water to cool for half a minute – boiling water can scald the delicate tea leaves and cause a bitter flavour to develop.

Sprinkle three heaped teaspoons of your favourite leaf tea into a small pot – for ideas about which tea to choose, why not try our Tea of the Week.

Fill the teapot with the boiled water, and then place the lid on carefully.

Allow the leaves to work their magic, while you prepare the other necessities.

If you like your tea strong and dark, leave the leaves to infuse in the water for several minutes; if you prefer a more watery brew, give it just a minute or two before pouring.

Some people like their tea in a mug that they can hug to themselves for warmth and comfort; others prefer a more traditional, delicate cup and saucer. Whatever your preference, place a tea-strainer over your chosen vessel and pour the tea carefully into the cup.

Leave enough room at the top for milk, if you take it, and dispose of the tea leaves from the strainer.

Add a little milk until the tea has reached the colour that appeals to you, stir gently and you are nearly ready to enjoy.

For a little luxury, why not add a couple of biscuits to your saucer, perfect for dipping into the hot tea. See our Dream Dunkers Derby to find out which biscuit is best suited to dunking.