Fresh Tea Recipe

Prepare leaves

Rinse the mint leaves under cold running water to remove dirt and grit. Gently shake off excess water or pat lightly with a kitchen towel.

Boil water

In a small saucepan or kettle, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.

Steep

Remove the water from heat. Add the rinsed mint leaves to the hot water, cover the pot or teapot, and let steep for 5 to 8 minutes depending on how strong and aromatic you want the mint flavor (5 minutes = mild, 8 minutes = robust).

Sweeten and finish

Taste the tea. If desired, stir in 1–2 tsp honey or sugar while the tea is still hot so it dissolves easily. Add lemon slices if using. Strain the tea into cups to remove leaves.

Serve hot immediately, or let cool to room temperature and refrigerate for iced mint tea. For iced tea, pour over ice and garnish with additional fresh mint sprigs.

Prepare ginger

Peel the fresh ginger and thinly slice it or lightly smash slices with the side of a knife to release more flavor. About a 1-inch piece yields a noticeable but not overpowering ginger taste; increase to 1.5–2 inches for stronger spice.

Boil water with ginger

Combine 4 cups of water and the prepared ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and let simmer gently, uncovered, for 8 to 12 minutes. Longer simmer yields a more intense ginger infusion.

Sweeten and finish

Turn off the heat and taste the infusion. Stir in 1 tablespoon honey or more/less to taste while hot so it dissolves. Add lemon slices if desired. Strain the liquid into cups to remove ginger pieces.

Serve hot right away for warming tea, or allow to cool and serve over ice for a refreshing iced ginger tea. Garnish with a lemon wheel or a thin ginger slice if desired.