Although using the microwave to make a cup of tea is not the ideal way to make tea, it does reduce the time wasted waiting for water to boil on the stove top and can be convenient in workplaces or when you are parched and just want your tea "now". Here is how to perform it with the minimum of fuss.
Steps
-
Add enough water to cover the tea bag or tea leaves, about one to two tablespoons. [2] X Research sourceAdvertisement
-
-
Now remove the napkin, book, or bowl. And the teabag-be careful, it will still be hot! Resist the temptation to squeeze the bag-you will make the tea bitter. If you want to add sugar, honey, or lemon , now is the time to add it. Then fill the cup up to the brim with water.
-
If you prefer your tea scalding hot, microwave the mug on high for another minute.
-
Enjoy your tea!
Community Q&A
-
QuestionAre all teas brewed the same, or do some need different times?Community AnswerGenerally, teas steep the same, but see the instructions on the box for that particular tea to be sure.
-
QuestionCan I add milk to black tea if I heat it in the microwave?Community AnswerYes.
-
QuestionI tried putting water in my mug then the heating it up and putting the tea bag inside. I let it sit for a while, but when I tasted the tea, it was gross and very watery. How can I fix this?Community AnswerMicrowave, or warm up the water first. Then, after you are satisfied with the temperature, put the water in the mug and add the tea bag. Steep the tea for the recommended time stated on the package.
Video
Tips
- Be wary of staples on some tea bags. It could cause damage to the microwave.Thanks
- You could also heat the water in the microwave and then steep the tea for as long as you like.Thanks
- Beware of steam and heat of the cup, as you may seriously burn yourself or someone nearby.Thanks
Warnings
- Only use this method when using teabags, not diffusers. Do not put anything metallic into the microwave.Thanks
Things You'll Need
- Mug or Cup (Microwave safe remember)
- Microwave (Most important part)
- Teabags
- Water
References
About This Article
To make a cup of tea in the microwave, place a tea bag or tea leaves in a microwave-safe mug, and add enough water to submerge the bag or leaves. Then, place the mug in the microwave, and microwave it on high for about 30 seconds. Once the timer goes off, remove the mug from the microwave, and cover the top with a napkin so the tea can steep for 2 minutes. After steeping, remove the napkin and the bag or leaves from the mug. If you want a sweeter tea, add sugar or honey. Finally, fill the mug to the top with water. For tips on making your tea extra hot, read on!
Reader Success Stories
- "I'm travelling through France, and gagging for a cuppa at a hotel. Got teabags, but no access to hot water, so wondered if microwave tea was possible. Thanks for advice." ..." more