'I tested the 'perfect' cuppa - after a scientist claimed it must contain salt'

24 January 2024 , 16:15

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Niamh tried the 'perfect' way to make a cup of tea...according to an American (Image: Niamh Kirk)

Us Brits love a brew, it's something we're known for - and it's widely known that we make tea better than anyone else.

But an American scientist reckons she's concocted up the "perfect" equation for the best cup of tea - and it contains salt.

According to Professor Michelle Francl, a professor of chemistry at Bryn Mawr College, the perfect cuppa features loose-leaf tea leaves instead of a tea bag and that the hot drink should be served in a short and stout mug.

Francl analysed research papers and ancient texts dating back more than 1,000 years to devise the best brew, and recorded these experiments in her new book, Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea.

Now I am all for trying new things, especially when it comes to tea, but for me, putting salt in my steaming hot brew made the hairs stand up on my arms. Surely this can't be real? So of course, I had to try it. Anything to make my beloved cup of tea better, right?

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I love a humble cuppa, so I was intrigued by this method (Niamh Kirk)

I was very reluctant to add the salt (Niamh Kirk)

Niamh Kirk