What is British tea?

British tea refers to the United Kingdom tradition of drinking tea as a cultural experience. In Britain, tea is consumed in households by people of all classes and backgrounds. In fact, it is considered a cultural staple beverage.

British tea tradition calls for teacups and saucers in formal situations, although mugs are used for most daily tea consumption. The water is boiled in a kettle, then swirled in the teapot or mug to warm it. Next, the hot water is poured into a cup over tea leaves in a strainer or bag. While different varieties require varying lengths of time to steep, most tea is brewed for five minutes. A tea cozy keeps the teapot warm until the tea is consumed. Many British people enjoy their tea with milk and sugar, though some prefer it straight black.