Chamomile Decaf Recipe

Heat water

Bring fresh filtered water to just below a boil, about 200°F (93°C). If you don't have a thermometer, heat until small bubbles form and steam rises but the water isn't vigorously boiling.

Measure herbs

Place 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers into your tea infuser. If you prefer a fuller-bodied cup, add 1 teaspoon of decaffeinated black tea to the infuser with the chamomile.

Steep

Pour 8 oz (about 240 ml) of the hot water over the infuser in your teapot or mug. Cover (this preserves volatile aromatics) and steep chamomile for 5 to 7 minutes. For a milder cup steep 4–5 minutes; for stronger flavor steep 7–8 minutes. If you included decaf black tea, keep the steep time at the lower end (3–4 minutes) to avoid bitterness—remove the black tea earlier if steeping together.

Remove infuser

After steeping, lift out the infuser and gently press against the side of the mug or teapot to release trapped liquid (do not squeeze hard or you may extract bitterness). Discard used herbs or compost them.

Sweeten

If desired, stir in 1 teaspoon honey or agave while the tea is hot so it dissolves completely. Adjust to taste.

Add citrus or aromatics

For brightness, add a slice of lemon or a couple of fresh mint leaves. If using a cinnamon stick, drop it into the cup while steeping or leave it in the cup to infuse gently.

Creamy variant

If you prefer a creamy chamomile 'latte,' heat 1 tablespoon milk (or dairy-free alternative) gently and froth if desired. Pour into the brewed tea and stir. This is especially soothing before bed.

Serve

Serve immediately while warm. Optionally garnish with a few whole chamomile flowers or a sprig of mint.