How should I brew stevia leaves, and what can I combine them with? — Stevia leaves, 25 g - Lekraset

The manufacturer recommends pouring a glass (200 ml) of boiling water over 1 teaspoon (1.7 g) of crushed leaves, leaving it to infuse for 10–15 minutes, then straining and squeezing out the leaves; drink 1 glass 2–3 times a day with meals. The longer you infuse and the more leaves you use, the more pronounced the sweet taste will be — and the more noticeable the grassy note. So it is best to find the optimal amount by trial and error, starting with a smaller portion.

A few practical ways to use them:

• Instead of sugar in tea. Add a few leaves straight into the teapot along with the tea — they will give the drink a light sweetness. This is especially handy if you are gradually cutting down on sugar in your diet.
• As an infusion on its own. The leaves can be brewed separately and drunk as a herbal tea with a neutral or slightly grassy taste.
• In herbal blends. Stevia goes well with mint, lemon balm, chamomile and other herbs: they soften its characteristic aftertaste and make the drink more balanced in flavour.

Stevia leaves should be stored in a dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight — like any dried herb. Once the pack is opened, it is best to transfer the contents to an airtight container to preserve the aroma and keep them from getting damp.

If you are intolerant to stevia, do not use it; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a chronic condition or take medication, consult a specialist before use.