Put the eggs in a lidded saucepan covered with water, about 25mm / 1 inch above the surface of the eggs. Heat on a high heat until boiling with a lid on. Turn down the heat and simmer gently for 1 minute. Remove from the heat leaving the lid on. Allow the eggs to continue to cook in the hot water for 10 minutes.

Take the pan from the heat and tip away the hot water. Put under a running tap for one minute then leave the eggs in cold water for 5 minutes. Hold a dressmakers pin or needle vertical with the head resting on a hard work surface. Gently tap the eggs on the point of the pin / needle to pierce to help the marinade penetrate the eggs. Carefully tap the eggshells with the back of a teaspoon to crack the shells.

Put all the other ingredients in the saucepan on a high heat. Gently place the cracked eggs in the pan and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes before removing the tea bags. Cover and continue to simmer for another 45 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat with lid on. Let the eggs soak in the tea mixture overnight. Before serving, reheat the tea mixture to warm the eggs.