Cinnamon Spiced Bay Leaf Herbal Infusion (Zero-Calorie Keto Drink)

Sip your way into calm with this fragrant, aromatic herbal infusion that blends earthy bay leaves with warming cinnamon and zesty fresh lemon. The liquor

Equipment

• Small stainless steel saucepan: Heats water evenly and prevents metallic off-flavors during simmering.
• Fine-mesh strainer: Captures tiny leaf fragments and spices to guarantee a silky, crystal-clear brew.
• Heatproof glass mugs: Allows you to appreciate the tea’s golden hue while keeping the beverage hot.

Ingredients

• 4 whole dried bay leaves (Note: ensure leaves are clean, vibrant olive-green, and whole; discard cracked or discolored leaves)
• 1 small Ceylon cinnamon stick (Note: optional, adds natural sweetness without sugar)
• 2.5 cups filtered water
• 1 slice fresh organic lemon (Note: optional, added right before serving for a bright citrus lift)
• 2–3 drops liquid monk fruit sweetener or stevia (Note: optional, keep sweetener carb-free to remain high-protein and keto-friendly)

Instructions

1. Combine and Heat: Pour 2.5 cups of filtered water into a small stainless steel saucepan. Add the whole dried bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Place the saucepan on the stove over medium-high heat until the water reaches a gentle, rolling boil (around 3 to 4 minutes).
2. Lower and Simmer: As soon as the water boils, immediately lower the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid to trap the volatile essential oils and simmer gently for 5 minutes. The liquid will begin transitioning from clear to a pale amber hue.
3. Turn Off and Steep: Remove the saucepan from the heat source. Keep the lid securely on and allow the infusion to steep undisturbed for an additional 4 to 5 minutes. The aroma will deepen, turning pleasantly sweet, warm, and herbaceous.
4. Strain and Serve: Pour the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer into heatproof mugs to remove the bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon and sugar-free sweetener if desired. Sip alongside a lean high-protein breakfast or post-workout meal to promote digestive comfort and steady hydration.

Nutrition

Calories: 3 kcal · Protein: 0.1 g · Fat: s: 0 g Cholesterol: 0 mg · Carbohydrates: 0.8 g · Fiber: 0.6 g · Sugar: 0 g · Sodium: 2 mg