| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 40 mins – 45 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 0.5g | 0.1g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 2g | 1g | 0.02g |
There’s something incredibly soothing and soulful about homemade tea – especially when it’s my Elderberry Tea Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of familiar flavors and refreshing novelty, reminiscent of both the Southern warmth of Atlanta where I grew up and the West African spice of my ancestry. This brew not only caters to taste buds, but also provides numerous health benefits, making it a completely guilt-free indulgence.
A Taste of Home and Health
Drawing upon roots that stretch back to West Africa and the American South, I’ve always delighted in creating fusion dishes that marry the best flavors of these two distinct culinary regions. My Elderberry Tea Recipe is no different. The ginger helps invigorate the brew, reminiscent of the African ginger drinks my parents would often prepare. Cinnamon, a staple of many Southern desserts, gives a warm sweetness, balanced perfectly with the unique tartness of the elderberries. Cloves absolutely uplift the taste profile, a harmonious match to the other components. Finally, a generous drizzle of honey imparts a natural sweet finish. It’s as if elements from diverse backgrounds have come together in a perfect symphony, leaving you craving for more with each sip.
Accompaniment Alchemy
While Elderberry tea is a delightful stand-alone brew, it’s just as lovely when paired with other dishes. I often enjoy a steaming mug alongside a robust Southern cornbread or even an intricately flavored Nigerian Jollof rice. The tangy, sweet flavors of the tea provide an exceptional contrast, making each meal an experience to savor.
So Much More Than Just a Delicious Brew
But this Elderberry Tea Recipe isn’t just about enticing your taste buds. It’s a powerhouse of health benefits as well. Elderberries are known for their high antioxidant content, helping to boost immunity and protect against common ailments. Ginger may help alleviate symptoms of cold and flu, while cinnamon has potential anti-inflammatory properties. Cloves, renowned for their antiseptic and antibacterial attributes, further fortify this brew. The honey, while lending sweetness, also soothes sore throats and is a wonderful natural energy source Medical News Today.
So, whether you’re seeking solace in a cup on a chilly evening, or just wanting a healthy, delicious drink to start your day, my Elderberry Tea Recipe is an exquisite choice. Here’s to good health and taste. Cheers!
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups of purified water
- 2/3 cups of dried elderberries
- 2 tablespoons of ginger root (grated)
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1 cup of honey
Method
Step One
Begin by combining the 4 cups of purified water, 2/3 cups of dried elderberries, 2 tablespoons of grated ginger root, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves in a large pot.
Step Two
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend together and create a rich, aromatic tea.
Step Three
Next, drain the mixture using a fine mesh strainer, separating the solids from the liquid. Be sure to squeeze out as much juice as possible from the berries to maximize the health benefits of your tea.
Step Four
While the tea is still warm, add 1 cup of honey and stir until it is fully dissolved. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less honey.
Step Five
Finally, allow the tea to cool down a bit, and then it’s ready to serve. You can enjoy it warm or chill it in the fridge and serve it cold, depending on your preference.
