The Perfect Cup of Tea

Fill an electric or stovetop kettle with water, ideally filtered.

Heat water (see Cook's Note for temperature recommendations).

Pour 1/2 cup hot water into a 10-to-12-ounce teapot and swish to warm pot up, about 5 seconds; discard water.

Spoon tea leaves directly into teapot or into a basket strainer inside pot.

Fill teapot with hot water and let steep (see Cook's Note for brewing times).

When tea is ready, decant it or remove basket strainer to stop the steeping.