Making fresh lavender tea is a simple and enjoyable process. When preparing fresh lavender tea, it's common to use the blossoms along with a small amount of foliage to balance the flavor. The blossoms contain the highest concentration of essential oils and provide the distinct aroma and flavor to the tea. However, the foliage also carries some of the essential oils and contributes to the overall taste of the tea. Bruising the sprigs slightly before steeping helps release the essential oils, intensifying the flavor and aroma of the tea.
Experiment with different ratios of blossoms to foliage based on your personal preference. Some people prefer a stronger lavender flavor and may use more blossoms, while others prefer a milder taste and use a higher proportion of foliage. Adjusting the amount of lavender you use allows you to customize the strength and balance of the flavors in your tea.
Here's a step-by-step guide to brewing a delicious cup of lavender tea using fresh lavender:
INGREDIENTS:
Fresh lavender sprigs (about 2 tablespoons per cup of water)
Filtered water
Honey or sweetener of your choice (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Harvesting Lavender
If you have a lavender plant in your garden or access to fresh lavender, start by harvesting the lavender sprigs. Look for fully bloomed flowers that are vibrant in color and have a strong fragrance. Gently cut or pinch off the sprigs, being careful not to damage the plant.Remember to always use fresh lavender that is free from pesticides and chemicals, especially if you are harvesting it from your own garden.
Washing the Lavender
Rinse the harvested lavender sprigs under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. This step is particularly important if you harvested the lavender from your garden.
Preparing the Tea Infusion
Bring the desired amount of water to a boil in a pot or kettle. For a single cup of lavender tea, you'll need about 1 cup (240 ml) of water. While the water is heating, lightly bruise the lavender sprigs by gently rolling them between your fingers or crushing them with a mortar and pestle. This helps release the essential oils and enhances the flavor.
Steeping the Lavender
Once the water reaches a rolling boil, remove it from the heat. Add the bruised lavender sprigs to the hot water and cover the pot or kettle with a lid. Let the lavender steep for about 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors and aromas to infuse into the water. Adjust the steeping time based on your preference for a stronger or milder lavender flavor.
Straining and Serving
After the desired steeping time, strain the lavender tea to remove the lavender sprigs. You can use a fine-mesh sieve or a tea strainer. Pour the freshly brewed lavender tea into your cup or teapot. If desired, add a natural sweetener like honey or your preferred sweetener to enhance the taste.
Enjoying Lavender Tea
Lavender tea can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on your preference. Sip and savor the fragrant infusion, allowing its soothing properties to relax your mind and body. Feel free to experiment with the amount of lavender sprigs and steeping time to find your preferred strength and flavor.
Now, sit back, take a sip, and let the delightful essence of fresh lavender tea transport you to a state of calm and tranquility.
Note: It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any specific health conditions or are on medication before incorporating lavender tea into your regular routine.