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1
Place tea bags in a heatproof glass or ceramic container that holds more than 1 cup.
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2
Bring 1 cup of water to a not-quite boil and remove from heat immediately. (Water that has come to a boil should be cooled for about 1 minute before using.)
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3
Pour water over tea bags and allow the tea to steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
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4
Remove tea bags, squeeze out liquid and discard.
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5
Allow tea to cool to room temperature.
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6
If not using immediately, refrigerate (covered) until ready to use. (Depending on the temperature of the room, tea left standing eventually will develop mold.)
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7
Allow refrigerated tea to come to room temperature before using.
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8
Place cheese and minced herb in a blender and mix on medium-high speed to blend thoroughly.
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9
Continue blending until mixture is smooth.
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10
Gradually add small amounts of the tea concentrate until the mixture is spreadable, as desired.
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11
Transfer the tea-cream cheese mixture to a covered container and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld.
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12
Bring mixture back to room temperature before using, either as a spread for toasted bagels or bread at breakfast; as a spread for crackers, sandwiches or wraps; or as a dip for vegetable crudites and toasted tortilla chips.
