Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
78 | 0g | 0g | 20g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
18g | 1g | 0g | 0.01g |
I’ve always had a sweet spot for afternoon teas and alfresco brunches. That’s where my Pennyroyal Tea recipe fits right in. It’s a delightful blend of rich, aromatic pennyroyal, tart lemon juice, and sweet summer berries, creating an invigorating concoction that’s perfect for those sun-soaked California afternoons.
Pennyroyal Tea has its roots in the mint family, making it a bold herbal drink that marries beautifully with the gentle sweetness of honey and the colorful medley of mixed berries. The complex harmony of flavors crafted in this simple health-imbued tea is something I find absolutely fascinating.
Health-Infused Delight
But Pennyroyal Tea isn’t just about tantalizing your taste buds. It brings some refreshing health benefits to the table, too. Pennyroyal is renowned for its therapeutic properties, including aiding digestion and relieving menstrual cramps. When concocted with honey and lemon juice, both of which contain powerful antioxidants and immune-boosting properties, you get a delicious detoxifying beverage that doubles as a treat for your taste buds.
Perfect Pairings for Pennyroyal Tea
This vivacious, fruit-infused tea pairs exceptionally with lighter fare – the kind you’d find abundantly on my brunch table. For example, it’s an excellent companion to open-faced avocado toast or a leafy kale salad. Allowing the robust flavors of Pennyroyal Tea to blend with avocados’ buttery softness or the crisp tanginess of kale leaves truly elevates the dining experience.
As a West Coast native, I can’t help but find nostalgia and comfort in this radiant beverage – it’s like a reflection of sunlit valleys in a glass. So, as a busy mom to three fantastic kids, I make sure Pennyroyal Tea is often brewing on our kitchen stove. It’s a taste of home, of love, of sunshine, all wrapped in one comforting cup.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups of filtered water
- 2 tbsp of dried pennyroyal leaves
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup of mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 6 slices of lemon for garnish
- Ice cubes
Method
Step One
Begin by boiling the 6 cups of filtered water in a large pot. When the water reaches a rolling boil, add the 2 tablespoons of dried pennyroyal leaves. Let the tea brew for approximately 10-15 minutes.
Step Two
While the tea is brewing, prepare the fruit. Thoroughly wash the mixed berries and cut them into halves. Freshly squeeze about 4 to 5 lemons to come up with 1/2 cup of lemon juice.
Step Three
Once the tea has brewed, strain it to remove the pennyroyal leaves. Pour the tea into a large pitcher. Best to use a glass pitcher for this step as it will allow you to see the beautiful colors of the berries.
Step Four
Sweeten the tea by adding 1/4 cup of honey into the pitcher. Stir until the honey is completely dissolved. Add the 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir to combine.
Step Five
Add the cup of mixed berries into the pitcher. Use a tall spoon to lightly muddle the berries, allowing them to release their juices and flavor. Don’t forget to save some berries for garnishing each glass.
Step Six
Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving. Adding some ice cubes will quicken the chilling process but might dilute the tea a bit.
Step Seven
Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and some of the reserved mixed berries. Then, pour the chilled Pennyroyal tea into the glass and serve immediately.
Step Eight
Enjoy the refreshing and invigorating flavors of your homemade Pennyroyal Tea!