Did your tea become cloudy? Did you ever drink cloudy tea?
If yes, you probably know that even if your tea is cloudy it tastes pretty much the same. But even if your tea gets cloudy there is nothing to worry about.
So, if you are still wondering, “Why is my tea cloudy? Then you have come to the right place. I will tell you what makes the tea cloudy and how to prevent your tea from getting cloudy.
Why is my tea cloudy?
Though there are several reasons why tea gets cloudy, the main reason behind the cloudiness of the tea is the separation of particles. The separation of particles usually occurs when the tea is super hot. The particles inside the tea swirl and spin in a circular motion. The heat causes the particles to clump and bind together.
But, as the tea starts to cool down, then the spinning of the particles stops, and they start getting separate. It causes the warm particles to rise to the surface while the cooler ones settle down on the base. As a result, your tea becomes cloudy.
Caffeine and tannins are the particles that are bonded together in the tea. Tannins come from different plants and wood and have a bitter taste to them.
It has excellent antioxidant properties as it works to prevent viruses while removing harmful bacteria from the body. Different types of teas have an unusual amount of Tannins in them. Also, long-brewing time causes a high production of tannins in your tea.
Other reasons why tea gets cloudy?
A crystal clear cup of tea is the most beautiful sight that not only looks good but also looks pretty delicious and flavorful. It is the reason why avid tea drinkers are not too fond of having cloudy tea.
If you think that this is only the reason why your tea gets cloudy? You are wrong! This is just one of the following reasons why tea becomes cloudy. Let us dive in deeper and look at the other reasons that cause cloudiness in your tea.
Dirty Equipment
The cleanliness of the equipment you use for making tea impacts how well your tea will end up. Not only this, but dirty equipment also gives an off taste to your tea.
Also, make sure that you throw away the residue left behind from any previous brewing, as any leftover particles can influence the tea’s taste and look. So, if you are aiming to get the most delicious crystal clear cup of tea, then make sure that your equipment gets appropriately cleaned.
Temperature Changes
Suppose you brew a pot of tea and put ice in immediately to make iced tea. The instant temperature change may cause the tea to become cloudy. The same happens if you put the pot of tea immediately in the refrigerator right after brewing.
So, if you want to prevent your iced tea from getting cloudy, you need to mix the freshly brewed tea with water at room temperature. Once the pitcher gets to room temperatures, you can add ice or put it in the refrigerator to chill.
Poor Water Quality
Another primary reason for tea getting cloudy is the use of poor water quality. Hence, the type of water you use to make tea is essential in your tea-making process.
If you use tap water for making tea, you need to make sure that it is fit for consumption. Since using hard water with high amounts of calcium and magnesium can cause your tea to get cloudy.
On the other hand, using filtered water for tea making gives the best results when making tea. But, before that make sure that you change the filter, or else it can affect your water quality and your tea.
Putting in the fridge
If you store iced tea in the fridge for later use, this can also affect the appearance of the tea and make it cloudy. The main reason it happens is that in the refrigerator, the particles in the tea go through a chemical change and start to separate.
Especially if you leave the tea in the fridge overnight, not only does it affect its appearance, but it also impacts the flavor of the tea. So, try to make a fresh pot of iced tea every time instead of keeping it stored for later use.
How to prevent the tea from getting cloudy?
Now that you know all the significant reasons why tea gets cloudy. Let’s look at how to prevent the tea from getting cloudy.
Suppose you want to enjoy a clear and delicious cup of tea every time. Make sure that you brew a fresh pot instead of using stored tea.
Also, make sure that the tea is at room temperature before you put in ice or pop it in the fridge. You can even leave the tea outside for a while to bring it to room temperature.
Furthermore, try to use clean equipment for making tea. As mentioned before, dirty equipment directly affects the tea quality.
If you want the best flavor and look of the tea, you need to drink the pot of tea within 6 to 8 hours of brewing. Also, don’t leave the tea to cool at room temperature for more than 12 hours.
You need to note that different types of tea need to get brewed at different temperature settings. So, for best results, make sure you know the brew temperature of the tea. You can even start with a specific temperature and keep adjusting depending upon the taste of the tea.
Final Thoughts
I hope that the information in my article helps you in making the perfect cup of crystal tea. Cloudy tea is not much of a problem when making regular tea. But, if you are brewing tea for making iced tea. Then you need to follow the points mentioned above to prevent your tea from getting cloudy.
