If you’re looking for a soothing, fragrant, and healthy beverage, lemongrass tea is a perfect choice. This herbal tea is easy to make and offers a refreshing citrusy flavor with a hint of earthiness. Plus, it’s naturally caffeine-free, making it ideal for any time of day. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make lemongrass tea step-by-step, share some tips for enhancing the flavor, and explain why this tea is so beloved around the world.
What Is Lemongrass Tea?
Lemongrass tea is an herbal infusion made from the stalks and sometimes leaves of the lemongrass plant. It has a bright lemony aroma and taste, thanks to the natural oils in the stalks. Traditionally, it’s enjoyed hot or cold and often combined with other ingredients like ginger, honey, or citrus for extra flavor and health benefits.
Why Make Lemongrass Tea?
Besides tasting delicious, lemongrass tea is prized for its potential health perks. It is believed to help with digestion, reduce inflammation, and calm nerves. Some studies suggest it may have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Even if you’re just in it for the flavor, it’s a delightful way to hydrate and relax.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Fresh lemongrass stalks (about 4-5 stalks)
– Water (around 6 cups)
– Optional: fresh ginger (1-inch piece, sliced)
– Optional: sweetener such as honey or sugar, to taste
– Optional: lemon or lime wedges for garnish and extra zest
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemongrass Tea
1. Prepare the Lemongrass
Start by rinsing the lemongrass stalks under cold water. Remove any dry or tough outer layers. Cut off the root end and the very top of the stalk, keeping the tender pale-yellow base and some green parts. Then, finely chop the stalks into small pieces to release more flavor.
2. Twist the Leaves (Optional)
If you have lemongrass leaves, fold them into a length that fits your pot and twist them tightly. This helps release more aromatic oils into the tea.
3. Boil the Water
Fill a pot with the water and bring it to a rolling boil on the stove.
4. Add Lemongrass and Ginger
Once the water is boiling, add the chopped lemongrass stalks, twisted leaves, and sliced ginger if using. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes. The longer it simmers, the stronger the flavor will be.
5. Strain the Tea
Remove the pot from heat and pour the tea through a fine strainer to remove the lemongrass pieces and ginger slices.
6. Sweeten and Garnish
Pour the tea into cups and add honey or sugar to taste. A splash of fresh lemon or lime juice and a wedge for garnish add a bright, fresh note that complements the lemongrass beautifully.
7. Serve Hot or Cold
Enjoy your lemongrass tea warm for a comforting drink or let it cool and serve over ice for a refreshing iced tea.
Tips to Enhance Your Lemongrass Tea Experience
– Use fresh lemongrass whenever possible for the best flavor. If fresh is unavailable, dried or frozen can work but may be less aromatic.
– Add ginger for a spicy kick and extra health benefits.
– Try mixing with green or black tea leaves to create a caffeinated version with more complexity.
– Experiment with sweeteners like maple syrup, brown sugar, or raw honey to find your favorite taste.
– Add citrus zest or pandan leaves for a tropical twist.
– Reuse the strained lemongrass and ginger by simmering them in water to naturally scent your home.
Why You’ll Love Making Lemongrass Tea at Home
Making lemongrass tea is quick, easy, and requires just a few ingredients. It’s a versatile drink that can be tailored to your taste preferences and enjoyed any time of day without caffeine jitters. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bring a bit of natural wellness into your daily routine with its soothing and refreshing qualities.
Lemongrass tea is more than just a beverage—it’s a simple ritual that can brighten your mornings or calm your evenings with its gentle citrus aroma and flavor.
Refreshing, healthy, and easy to make—lemongrass tea is a must-try for any tea lover.
Enjoy your cup of homemade lemongrass tea!