Chrysanthemum tea, a fragrant and visually appealing beverage, offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary. For centuries, this delicate brew has been celebrated in East Asian cultures not only for its pleasant taste but also for its purported health benefits, ranging from improved vision to soothing inflammation. The vibrant yellow flowers, readily available fresh or dried, lend themselves to a simple yet elegant brewing process, creating a tea that's both calming and invigorating. Its subtle sweetness and slightly bitter notes make it a versatile drink, enjoyed hot or iced, alone or with the addition of honey or other flavorings.
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps of making a delicious and healthy cup of chrysanthemum tea. From selecting the right flowers to achieving the perfect brewing temperature, we'll explore the nuances of crafting this timeless beverage, ensuring you can easily recreate this soothing ritual in your own home. Let's begin!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Strainer or thin cloth
- Ladle or spoon
- Bottles
Ingredients
- Clean water: 4200 ml
- Chrysanthemum flowers
- Chinese quince seeds
- Chinese lentils: 4 (if large)
- Pandan leaves: optional
- Sugar: 400 grams (or to taste)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chrysanthemum and Ingredients
- Boil 200ml of water (out of 4200ml), reserving some in case of evaporation.
- Blanch chrysanthemum flowers in hot water and gently wash Chinese quince seeds once.
- Add hot water to the pot, and boil chrysanthemum flowers to reduce bitterness.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking the pollen.
- Remove chrysanthemum flowers from boiling water, rinse with cold water, and set aside to drain.
- Reduce heat to medium, add Chinese lentils and boil for 2 minutes (avoid over-boiling).
- Add pandan leaves (optional).
Step 2. Brew the Tea
- Add chrysanthemum flowers and continue boiling for 2 minutes.
- Press the chrysanthemum flowers gently to extract the fragrance.
Step 3. Cool and Sweeten
- Turn off heat, let it cool, then strain the tea using a strainer or thin cloth, squeezing out excess liquid gently.
- Add sugar and salt, adjusting to your taste.
- Cool the tea quickly by placing the pot in cold water.
Step 4. Bottle and Store
- Pour the cooled tea into bottles, filling to the brim.
- Close the bottle caps firmly, ensuring no gaps.
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Tips
- Use fresh chrysanthemum flowers for the best color.
- Don't over-boil the lentils or chrysanthemum flowers to prevent bitterness and astringency.
- Gently press the chrysanthemum flowers to avoid a bitter taste.
- Salt enhances the sweetness of the tea.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1600-1800
- Fat: 0-1g
- Carbs: 400-450g
- Protein: 1-2g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh or dried chrysanthemum flowers?
Both work great! Fresh flowers offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor, while dried flowers are more readily available and offer a slightly more concentrated taste. Adjust steeping time accordingly.
2. How much chrysanthemum should I use per cup?
A good starting point is 1-2 tablespoons of dried flowers or a small handful of fresh flowers per cup (8 ounces) of water. Adjust to your preference; more flowers will result in a stronger flavor.
3. What are the health benefits of chrysanthemum tea?
Chrysanthemum tea is often associated with benefits like improved vision, reduced inflammation, and a calming effect. However, it's important to note these are traditional uses and more research is needed to confirm these claims.
Enjoy your freshly brewed cup of chrysanthemum tea – a delightful and healthy beverage perfect for any time of day. Its simple preparation and versatile nature make it an ideal addition to your repertoire of comforting drinks. So sit back, relax, and savor the refreshing floral notes of this easy-to-make tea.