veganWash the lemon
If you want to use the lemon, rinse it well under cool running water, rubbing the skin gently with your fingers to remove any wax or residue. Pat it dry so it is easier to slice cleanly.
Slice the lemon
Cut the lemon into thin rounds, then set aside 2 neat slices for serving. If your lemon has seeds, remove them so they do not end up in the tea.
Boil the water
Pour the water into a kettle or small saucepan and bring it to a full boil over high heat. You are looking for steady bubbles across the surface, not just a few around the edges.
Steep the tea
Place the black tea in a teapot, tea strainer, or directly in a heatproof mug or jug. Pour the just-boiled water over it, cover, and let it steep for 4 minutes so the tea becomes strong and full-bodied without turning bitter. If the leaves are loose in the pot or mug, strain the tea before serving.
Assemble and serve
Spoon the fruit preserve into 2 cups, using 2 teaspoons per cup. Pour the hot tea over the preserve and stir a little if you want the jam to dissolve into the drink, or leave it less stirred for a more traditional style with pockets of fruit sweetness. Add a slice of lemon to each cup if you like, and serve right away while the tea is hot.
