Teapot Ratio

Leaf-to-water ratio is one of the three fundamental brewing variables alongside temperature and steep time. In Western-style brewing, a common starting point is 2-3 grams of leaf per 240 ml of water (roughly 1:80 to 1:120), brewed for 3-5 minutes. This produces a single cup of moderate concentration. Gongfu brewing dramatically increases the ratio to 5-8 grams per 100-150 ml (1:15 to 1:20), compensating with much shorter infusion times. The higher ratio creates a more concentrated extraction per second of contact, revealing subtleties that dilute formulations miss. For grandpa-style brewing, a moderate ratio of 3-4 grams per tall glass allows leaves to settle and be continuously topped up with hot water throughout the day. Cold brewing typically uses 5-8 grams per liter (1:125 to 1:200) to account for the reduced extraction efficiency of cold water over extended time. Adjusting ratio is the easiest way to fine-tune strength without altering temperature or timing.