Dr. Michelle Francl, a chemistry professor at Bryn Mawr College, has ignited a spirited discussion between the United States and the United Kingdom with her unconventional method for brewing the perfect cup of tea. In her book 'Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea,' Dr. Francl suggests incorporating a pinch of salt into the tea to mitigate bitterness and advocates adding warm milk after pouring to prevent curdling.
She delves into various aspects of tea preparation, recommending the use of a short, stout mug, choosing leaves over teabags, and adding a small amount of lemon juice to address the 'scum' formation caused by chemical interactions in the tea and water. Her recommendations have stirred controversy in the UK, a nation renowned for its tea-drinking culture, prompting a response from the US embassy in London, which clarified that the unconventional tea-making method is not official US policy.
The embassy playfully concluded its statement by expressing a commitment to making tea "the proper way—by microwaving it." This exchange has fueled discussions on cultural disparities surrounding tea traditions, adding a flavorful twist to the age-old debate on the ideal cup of tea.
