| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 132 | 0.2g | 0.06g | 32g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 27g | 3g | 2g | 0g |
When I first tried the Longan and Red Jujube Tea, it felt like I was wrapped in a blanket of warmth. The gentle sweetness of the dried longan combined with the deep, caramel-like flavors of red jujubes make this tea more than just a drink; it’s a comforting experience. This recipe harks back to many afternoons I’ve spent with my grandmother in Japan, sipping on traditional teas and sharing stories. The Longan and Red Jujube Tea has a way of bringing people together, making it one of my all-time favorites.
A Blend of Tradition and Health
For me, the magic of this tea lies in its simplicity and its health benefits. Dried longan and red jujubes are long celebrated in Chinese medicine for their numerous health benefits. Longan is believed to improve blood circulation and reduce stress, while red jujubes are rich in antioxidants, promoting a strong immune system. Adding a touch of ginger, which is optional but highly recommended, can further boost its anti-inflammatory properties.
A Perfectly Versatile Beverage
Another reason why I love this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it alongside a light meal. It’s a refreshing complement to sushi or a simple seafood dish, adding a sweet, botanical note that balances savory flavors. The Longan and Red Jujube Tea is also reminiscent of other Asian fruit-based teas, and it could easily become one of your go-to beverages. Imagine sitting down with a bowl of perfectly prepared sushi rice or miso soup, with this tea by your side, making your meal complete.
In our fast-paced world, it’s comforting to know that we can still create moments of tranquility and connection with something as simple as a cup of tea. So, the next time you need a break, take a moment to prepare Longan and Red Jujube Tea. Trust me, it’s worth every sip.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups of water
- 1 cup of dried longan
- 1 cup of dried red jujubes (Chinese dates)
- 1/4 cup of goji berries (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of rock sugar (or to taste)
- 1 small piece of fresh ginger (about 1 inch), sliced (optional)
ALLERGENS: Goji berries
Method
Step One
Rinse the dried longan, dried red jujubes, and goji berries (if using) under cold water to remove any impurities.
Step Two
Fill a medium-sized pot with 6 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
Step Three
Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed dried longan, dried red jujubes, and the sliced ginger (if using) to the pot.
Step Four
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until the longan and jujubes are plump and tender.
Step Five
Add the rock sugar to the pot and stir until it is fully dissolved. If you’re using goji berries, add them in the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Step Six
Once the rock sugar is dissolved and the goji berries are slightly plumped, remove the pot from heat.
Step Seven
Carefully strain the tea into cups or a teapot, discarding the solids, or you can serve it with the solids for added texture and flavor.
Step Eight
Serve the tea hot or let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for a refreshing chilled drink. Adjust the sweetness by adding more rock sugar if desired.
