| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 105 | 0g | 0g | 28g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 24g | 0g | 0g | 0.01g |
Every so often, there comes a recipe that blends nature’s bounty with culinary artistry in such a way that it touches not just your palate, but your soul. Kencur Tea: A health-boosting tea infused with the taste and beneficial properties of Kencur, is one such beverage that offers comfort, wellness, and immense joy in each sip.
Loving Kencur: Beyond its Taste
Born in the bright and sunny valleys of California, I’ve grown to appreciate recipes that champion the virtue of fresh produce and natural ingredients. Kencur Tea mirrors those values, using the aromatic kencur root, also known as Kaempferia galanga, to deliver an uplifting, health-conscious drink. And it’s not just the invigorating taste that has me smitten; the health benefits associated with this root are truly impressive.
Studies have shown that Kencur root possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to strengthen your immune system and protect against common illnesses. Add in the cleansing properties of lemon juice, the soothing benefits of fresh mint, and the subtle heat thrown in for good measure via fresh ginger slices, and you have a tea that’s not only delightful to drink, but contributes to your overall wellbeing.
Tea-Time treats: Perfect Pairings
While the Kencur Tea is an absolute delight on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. My favorite companion for this flavor-packed drink? A fresh, vibrantly seasoned avocado toast. But it could easily complement other light meals as well, making it a fantastic addition to your brunch or breakfast spread.
Sharing a similar vibe to Thai’s ginger tea or India’s turmeric latte, it would harmoniously blend with an afternoon tea flickered with Asian-inspired snacks, perhaps sushi rolls or dim sum. And if you’re in the mood for something sweeter, a fruity salad or light pavlova could offer a delightful contrast to the invigorating, distinguished taste of Kencur tea.
One sip of this health-boosting tea and you’ll understand why this recipe holds a special place in my heart: it’s simple in its ingredients, rich in flavors, and generous with its health benefits. Whether you’re searching for a taste of sunshine on a gloomy day or aiming to instill some health-conscious habits into your daily routine, the Kencur Tea is a splendid choice.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons of Kencur root (also known as Kaempferia galanga or aromatic ginger), crushed
- 6 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of raw honey or to taste
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 6 slices of fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup of fresh mint leaves
Method
Step One
Begin by cleaning the Kencur root and fresh ginger slices thoroughly. Afterwards, you should crush the Kencur root into a coarse paste.
Step Two
Once you have prepared your root and ginger, bring the 6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once the water is boiling, add in the crushed Kencur root and fresh ginger slices.
Step Three
Allow the mixture to boil for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the water has absorbed the flavors of the root and ginger. Stir occasionally to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step Four
After you have boiled the root and ginger, turn off the heat and strain the mixture into a large jug. Make sure to remove all the solid parts.
Step Five
Add the raw honey, while the tea is hot, and lemon juice to the strained mixture. Stir well to ensure the honey dissolves completely.
Step Six
Finally, add the fresh mint leaves to the mixture for an added refreshing flavor. Allow the tea to cool down, then store it in the refrigerator to serve cold. Your Kencur tea is ready to be enjoyed!
