My favorite cup of tea
This is my go-to tea whenever me or my daughter start feeling under the weather, or if we’re already a bit sick or recovering. It’s also just delicious and I enjoy it regardless, especially on cold winter evenings. It’s so savory, and smells wonderful. I recommend it to every one I know, and I have been sipping on this recipe for over 10 years now. Enjoy!
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a comforting cup of tea to soothe the soul, and if you’re a fan of unique and flavorful brews, you’re going to enjoy this one! In this post, we’ll explore a delightful tea recipe that combines the earthy warmth of onions, the zing of ginger, the citrusy freshness of lemon, and the calming nature of chamomile. Get ready to enjoy my all time favorite blend. If you want a little extra zing, feel free to make it your own and add some paprika or other spices you enjoy, too!
Ingredients
- 1-2 lemons (depending on preference)
- Fresh ginger (peeled and crushed)
- 1 onion (peeled and cut)
- Chamomile (either dried whole flowers or tea bags)
- Honey (for sweetness)
- Water
Instructions
- Wash the Lemons: Start by giving the lemons a good wash to ensure they are clean and free of any impurities.
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Peel and crush the ginger, leaving it in substantial chunks.
- Peel and cut the onion according to your taste preference.
- Boil the Water: Use a large pot and bring plenty of water to a boil. It’s essential to account for evaporation, so don’t be shy with the amount of water.
- Add Lemon, Ginger, and Onion: Once the water is boiling, add the prepared ginger, onion, and squeeze the juice of the lemons into the pot. Toss in the lemon peels, either whole or cut, for added zest. Allow the mixture to boil for a moment before lowering the heat to a simmer.
- Infuse with Fragrance: Let the ingredients simmer for around 30 minutes or until the aroma fills the air. This slow infusion ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Introduce Chamomile: Add the chamomile to the pot. Whether you’re using dried whole flowers or tea bags, this step brings a gentle and calming quality to the tea. Stir the mixture regularly during this stage.
- Strain and Pour: Once the tea has reached a beautiful yellow/brown hue and is richly fragrant, strain the mixture to remove the solids. Pour the liquid into your favorite teacup or mug.
- Sweeten with Honey: Add honey to taste, stirring until it dissolves. The honey not only adds sweetness but complements the other flavors, creating a harmonious blend.
- Enjoy the Fragrant Brew: Take a moment to appreciate the aroma and savor the unique flavors of your homemade tea. This fragrant delight is not only soothing but also a wonderful departure from ordinary tea blends.
Conclusion
With the combination of onions, ginger, lemon, chamomile, and honey, this tea recipe offers a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary. Treat yourself to a cup of this aromatic blend, and let its warmth envelop you, providing comfort and relaxation in every sip. Cheers to the joy of crafting your own tea masterpiece!
Benefits
Let’s discuss all the benefits of this super fragrant and delicious tea!
- Lemon
- Benefits: Lemons are a powerhouse of vitamin C, known for their immune-boosting properties. The citrusy flavor adds a refreshing zing to the tea, while the vitamin C helps support the body’s defense against colds and flu.
- Ginger
- Benefits: Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It provides a pleasant warmth to the tea and can help soothe sore throats, alleviate nausea, and reduce inflammation.
- Onion
- Benefits: Onions contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. While they might seem unconventional in tea, their unique flavor contributes depth to the brew. Onions are also known for their potential to help alleviate respiratory issues.
- Chamomile
- Benefits: Chamomile is famous for its calming and soothing effects. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with sore throats and promote relaxation. Chamomile is often used to aid sleep and ease stress.
- Honey
- Benefits: In addition to providing sweetness, honey has antibacterial and soothing properties. It can help coat the throat, offering relief for sore throats and coughs. Honey is a natural cough suppressant and adds a comforting touch to the tea.
Purpose of the Tea
- Taste Profile: The sweet and tangy notes in the tea come from the combination of lemon, ginger, and honey. This sweet flavor profile makes the tea not only a soothing remedy but also a delicious beverage to enjoy.
- Soothing for Colds and Sore Throats: The combination of ingredients in this tea creates a holistic remedy for colds and sore throats. The vitamin C from lemons boosts the immune system, ginger provides warmth and anti-inflammatory benefits, onions contribute to respiratory relief, chamomile adds a calming effect, and honey soothes the throat.
- Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Support: The tea’s ingredients collectively work to provide anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a supportive drink during times of illness. The immune-boosting properties of lemon and the overall soothing nature of the tea contribute to a sense of well-being.
- Aromatic Relaxation: Beyond its medicinal qualities, the tea offers an aromatic experience that promotes relaxation. The calming effects of chamomile, combined with the warm notes of ginger and the fresh citrus aroma, create a sensory treat that can be enjoyed for its calming influence.
This tea recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with benefits for your immune system, respiratory health, and overall wellness. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking for a little relief during a cold, this blend has it all. It’s a winter-time favorite!