Quick Answer

For a perfect cup of Kenya BOP or PF tea, use freshly boiled water at 212°F (100°C) and steep for 3–5 minutes. Adjust steeping time to taste: 3 minutes for a lighter cup, 5 minutes for a bolder brew.

BOP vs PF: What's the Difference?

Kenya BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe) and Kenya PF (Pekoe Fannings) are both black teas from Kenya's high-altitude tea regions, but they differ in leaf size and character. BOP consists of larger, broken leaves that produce a rich red liquor and a strong, well-balanced flavor. PF is made from smaller, more aromatic leaves, resulting in a similarly bold cup but with a slightly different mouthfeel and intensity.

Because PF leaves are smaller, they release flavor faster. This means you might prefer a slightly shorter steeping time for PF compared to BOP to avoid over-extraction and bitterness. Both teas are excellent for morning or afternoon enjoyment and are rich in antioxidants.

Step-by-Step Brewing Guide

  1. Boil Fresh Water: Use fresh, cold water and bring it to a rolling boil (212°F / 100°C). Black tea needs fully boiling water to extract the full flavor. Avoid re-boiling water, as it reduces oxygen and can make the tea taste flat.
  2. Warm Your Teapot or Mug: Rinse your teapot or mug with a little hot water to warm it. This helps maintain the water temperature during steeping. A pre-warmed vessel ensures a more consistent brew.
  3. Measure the Tea: Use one teaspoon (about 2-3 grams) of Kenya BOP or PF tea per 8-ounce cup. Adjust to taste for stronger or weaker tea. For a stronger pot, add more tea, not longer steeping time—this avoids bitterness.
  4. Pour and Steep: Pour the boiling water over the tea leaves and steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Start with 3 minutes and taste; add time in 30-second increments if you prefer a stronger cup. For PF, lean toward the shorter end (3-4 minutes) since smaller leaves release flavor faster.
  5. Strain and Serve: Remove the tea leaves by straining or using an infuser. Serve plain, or add milk, sugar, or lemon to taste. Don't leave the leaves in the pot, as they will continue to steep and become bitter.

Teas We Recommend

  • Kenya BOP Tea: Kenya BOP Tea is produced in Kenya's tea-growing regions, where ideal climates and volcanic soils create an excellent environment for tea. It offers a rich red liquor and strong, bold, well-balanced flavors. This makes it a great everyday black tea that stands up well to milk or a slice of lemon, and its balanced profile suits both morning and early afternoon drinking.

    Kenya BOP Tea

    Kenya BOP Tea

  • Kenya PF Tea: Kenya PF Tea is made from small but very aromatic leaves, produced at high altitudes in Kenya. It has a beautiful red liquor and lovely strong flavors. The smaller leaf size means a quicker infusion, so you can adjust steeping time to control strength—perfect for when you want a fast, robust cup.

    Kenya PF Tea

    Kenya PF Tea