Ingredients:
- 4 cups filtered Water
- 2 inches Fresh Ginger Root, roughly sliced or smashed
- 1 large Cinnamon Stick
- 1/2 inch Fresh Turmeric Root, roughly sliced (optional)
- 3 units Whole Cloves (optional)
- 2 Green Tea Bags or 2 tsp Loose Leaf
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- Natural Sweetener, To Taste (Optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Roots: Peel the ginger and turmeric (optional, but recommended). Give the pieces a gentle smash using the flat side of your knife—this greatly increases the surface area and flavour extraction.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the water, smashed ginger, turmeric, cinnamon stick, and cloves (if using) into the saucepan.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan lightly and let it steep and simmer for 10 minutes. This ensures maximum extraction from the hard roots and spices.
- Remove from Heat: Turn off the heat. Remove the lid. If using delicate green tea, let the liquid cool for about 30 seconds.
- Add Tea: Drop the green tea bags (or loose leaf in an infuser) into the hot water mixture.
- Steep Carefully: Allow the tea to steep for a maximum of 3 to 4 minutes. Green tea becomes bitter if over-steeped. Stick to the timing!
- Strain: Remove the tea bags and use the fine-mesh sieve to strain the entire liquid infusion directly into your serving vessel (mugs or a large jar). Discard the roots and spices.
- Season and Serve: Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste the brew. Add your preferred natural sweetener only if needed. Serve immediately while hot, or chill for a refreshing cold drink.