| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 8 mins – 11 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 39 | 0.1g | 0g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 1g | 0.5g | 0.01g |
One of the many reasons I fell in love with Hot Anise Tea is its beautiful blend of comforting and invigorating notes. As someone who cherishes both the fresh bounty of the Pacific Northwest and the time-honored culinary traditions of Japan, I find this recipe a mesmerizing intersection of flavors and health benefits. Sipping this tea not only warms the body but also offers a symphony of tastes: the tartness of lemon, the crisp sweetness of apples and oranges, and the exotic warmth of star anise and cinnamon.
Seasonal Comfort
On chilly Seattle mornings or cool evenings in Tokyo, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of Hot Anise Tea. The recipe has a natural seasonal charm, integrating fruits that are often at their peak during the fall and winter months. The apples and oranges provide a gentle, familiar sweetness, while the lemon slices add a zesty brightness that cuts through heavier flavors. Star anise and cinnamon offer a whisper of spice, creating a harmonious and comforting drink that’s ideal for any occasion.
Health Benefits
Beyond its delightful taste, Hot Anise Tea brings several health benefits to the table. Star anise, a staple in traditional Chinese medicine, is known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to boost immunity. Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory effects and its role in blood sugar regulation are well documented. The combination of these spices with the vitamin C-packed fruits helps fortify your immune system, making this tea an excellent ally during cold seasons.
Moreover, the honey not only sweetens the tea but also offers its own set of health perks, including anti-bacterial and soothing properties that can be a boon for your throat. This can be especially beneficial during the colder months when colds and flu are more prevalent.
Perfect Pairings
Hot Anise Tea is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes. It’s a great companion to light pastries like scones or shortbread cookies, making it a delightful addition to any tea time spread. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a savory cheese platter or even alongside a warm bowl of soup like miso or clam chowder. Its aromatic spices complement both sweet and savory dishes, adding layers of flavor with each sip.
If you love experimenting with flavors, you might find that this tea resembles other spiced beverages from around the world. Its complexity echoes the rich profiles found in hot mulled cider or even the spiced teas popular in many Asian cultures. Whether you’re a fan of these traditional drinks or a newcomer to spiced fruit teas, Hot Anise Tea is sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.
So the next time you’re looking to warm up with something both flavorful and nourishing, give Hot Anise Tea a try. It’s a small, soul-soothing ritual in a cup that’s both easy to prepare and immensely satisfying.
For more on the health benefits of spices like star anise, visit [WebMD’s guide to medicinal spices](https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-health-benefits-herbs-spices). To explore other healthy drink options, check out [Healthline’s article on herbal teas](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/types-of-tea).
What You’ll Need
Method
Step One
In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
Step Two
Add the sliced orange, apples, and lemon into the boiling water.
Step Three
Lower the heat to a simmer and add 6 whole star anise, 6 cinnamon sticks, and 12 whole cloves.
Step Four
Let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step Five
Stir in 1/4 cup of honey until it is fully dissolved.
Step Six
Strain the tea to remove the fruit slices and spices, and serve hot.
