Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon balm leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemongrass stalks
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 lemon, sliced
Special equipment needed:
- Tea kettle or pot
- Tea strainer or infuser
- Teapot or mug
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a tea kettle or pot.
2. Rinse and chop 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon balm leaves and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemongrass stalks.
3. Place the chopped herbs in a tea strainer or infuser and put it in a teapot or mug.
4. Pour the boiling water over the herbs and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
5. Remove the tea strainer or infuser and add 1 tablespoon of honey (optional) and a few slices of lemon.
6. Stir and serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
5. Temperature:
Boiling water
Serving size:
2 cups
Nutritional information:
Calories: 20
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 10mg
Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dried lemon balm and lemongrass can be used instead of fresh.
- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of honey.
Variations:
- Add a cinnamon stick or ginger for a spicy twist.
- Use lime instead of lemon for a different flavor.
- Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a tea strainer or infuser to avoid getting herbs in your tea.
- Adjust the amount of honey to your taste preference.
- Use filtered water for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
Lemon balm and lemongrass tea is best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the tea in a pot or microwave until hot.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the tea in a clear glass mug to show off the herbs and lemon slices.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh lemon balm or lemongrass.
Pairings:
Lemon balm and lemongrass tea pairs well with light snacks such as fruit, nuts, or crackers.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the tea is too strong, dilute it with more hot water.
- If the tea is too weak, steep the herbs for a few more minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh herbs and clean equipment to avoid contamination.
Food history:
Lemon balm and lemongrass have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their calming and digestive properties.
Flavor profiles:
Lemon balm and lemongrass tea has a refreshing and citrusy flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Serving suggestions:
Enjoy lemon balm and lemongrass tea as a midday pick-me-up or after a meal to aid digestion.
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Taste: Refreshing, Citrusy, Herbal, Aromatic, Tangy