Ginger and Clove Tea

A global, Ayurvedic-inspired herbal tea that is vegan, gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and caffeine-free. The intensity can be adjusted from mild to strong based on simmering time.

Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer
• Tea cups or mugs
• Knife and cutting board (or microplane grater)
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients

• 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece fresh ginger root, peeled and thinly sliced or grated
• 6–8 whole cloves (or ¼ tsp ground cloves)
• 2 cups (480 ml) filtered water
• 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
• 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
• 2–3 black peppercorns (optional)

Instructions

1. Peel the fresh ginger and slice it thinly (about ⅛-inch thick) or grate it finely. If using whole cloves, gently crush them with the back of a knife or a mortar and pestle to release their essential oils.
2. Pour 2 cups of filtered water into a small saucepan. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle simmer with small bubbles forming at the bottom.
3. Once simmering, add the sliced ginger and crushed cloves. If using optional cinnamon or peppercorns, add them now. Stir once to distribute.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently, uncovered, for 10–15 minutes (or up to 20 minutes for a very strong decoction).
5. Remove from heat. Place a fine mesh strainer over a mug or heatproof measuring cup and pour the tea through, catching all solids. Press gently on the ginger and cloves with the back of a spoon to extract flavor.
6. If desired, stir in honey or maple syrup while the tea is still warm. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust.
7. Pour into a mug and serve.

Notes

Iced version: Brew strong (15 minutes), cool, then pour over ice with a sprig of mint. Creamy version: Add a splash of warm milk or oat milk. Extra healing: Add a pinch of turmeric and a crack of black pepper. Honey should be added after removing from heat to preserve enzymes. Make-ahead: Brew a large batch and refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat gently.

Nutrition

Calories: 2–5 kcal · Total Fat: 0 g · Saturated Fat: 0 g · Trans Fat: 0 g · Cholesterol: 0 mg · Sodium: 1–2 mg · Total Carbohydrates: 1 g · Dietary Fiber: 0 g · Total Sugars: 0 g · Protein: 0 g · Vitamin C: ~2% DV · Calcium: ~1% DV · Iron: ~1% DV · Potassium: ~15 mg