Lemongrass tea is a fragrant, citrusy drink that’s simple to make, delicious, and loaded with health benefits. This recipe will guide you through making a fresh cup of lemongrass tea that you can enjoy hot or iced. Adding a bit of honey or lemon brings out the natural flavors even more, creating a perfectly balanced drink.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Fresh Lemongrass: Two stalks (you can substitute with dried lemongrass or lemongrass tea bags if fresh isn’t available)
- Water: 2 cups
- Optional: Honey or lemon to add sweetness or zest
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lemongrass
If you’re using fresh lemongrass, start by rinsing it under cool water. Fresh lemongrass has a tough outer layer, which should be removed to reach the tender core. Follow these steps for a more flavorful tea:
- Peel the Stalks: Peel away any dry, tough outer layers of the lemongrass until you reach the softer, pale-green interior.
- Cut the Stalks: Use only the tender, inner stalks for tea, as this part contains the most flavor. Cut each stalk into pieces about 2-3 inches long.
- Crush the Lemongrass: To release the essential oils, gently crush the lemongrass pieces with the flat side of a knife or a pestle. Crushing the stalks allows the flavors to infuse better, resulting in a richer taste.
Step 2: Boil
- Add to Water: Place the prepared lemongrass into a pot and pour in 2 cups of water.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. The longer you simmer, the stronger the tea will be, so adjust according to your taste preference.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
- Remove from Heat: After the tea reaches your preferred strength, remove it from the heat.
- Strain: Pour the tea through a strainer into your favorite cup to remove the lemongrass pieces.
- Optional Additions: For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of honey to sweeten or a squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of citrus. These additions complement the natural flavor of lemongrass wonderfully.
How to Enjoy Lemongrass Tea
Lemongrass tea is delicious both hot and cold. If you prefer iced tea, allow it to cool after straining, then serve over ice. Adding mint leaves can give it an extra refreshing kick, making it an ideal summer drink.
Benefits of Lemongrass Tea
Besides being aromatic and soothing, lemongrass tea offers several health benefits:
- Supports Digestion: Lemongrass tea can help relieve bloating, indigestion, and stomach discomfort, making it an excellent drink after a heavy meal.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety: With its mildly sedative properties, lemongrass can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety, offering a relaxing effect that’s perfect at the end of a long day.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Lemongrass contains antioxidants that help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, supporting overall health and wellness.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Drinking lemongrass tea may reduce inflammation and support joint health, making it beneficial for those with arthritis or general inflammation.
Enjoy your lemongrass tea, and make it a go-to beverage for both relaxation and well-being.
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