Tea is a popular beverage in Persian culture. This recipe is easy to make, delicious, and can be served hot or cold. Aside from its great taste, Persian tea is also known for its health benefits. It is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great addition to any diet. Now, let’s get started on making this traditional Persian tea recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of water
- 2 teaspoons of loose-leaf black tea
- 2 teaspoons of cardamom
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of rose petals (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon of saffron (optional)
Instructions
- Bring the 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot.
- Once the water is boiling, add the black tea and cardamom.
- Let the tea simmer for 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, add the cinnamon, rose petals (if desired), and sugar or honey.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add the saffron (if desired) and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the tea steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a pitcher or individual mugs.
- Enjoy your Persian tea!
Nutrition
One serving of Persian tea is approximately 8 ounces. This serving size contains approximately 8 calories and 2 grams of carbohydrates. It is also an excellent source of manganese, providing 15% of the recommended daily value. Additionally, the black tea contains antioxidants and polyphenols, which can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health and wellness.
Serving Suggestions
Persian tea is a great accompaniment to traditional Persian dishes such as kabob, zereshk polo, or tahdig. It can also be enjoyed on its own, either hot or iced. For an extra special treat, add a dollop of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. You can also add a splash of milk or cream for a richer flavor.
Tips and Tricks
If you’re looking to save time, you can purchase pre-ground cardamom and cinnamon, which can be found in most grocery stores. You can also experiment with different types of tea, such as green or oolong, to give the tea a unique flavor. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or honey to suit your taste. Lastly, for a more intense flavor, you can steep the tea for a few extra minutes before straining.
Storage
If you have any leftover tea, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply pour the tea into a small pot and heat until steaming. You can also freeze the tea into ice cubes for a refreshing iced tea.
Conclusion
Persian tea is a delicious and refreshing beverage that is easy to make. With its unique flavor and health benefits, it’s a great addition to any diet. Whether you’re looking for a unique way to start your day or just a way to relax in the evening, this traditional Persian tea recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy!
Leave a Reply