Refreshing Homemade Lemongrass Tea Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 tablespoon of honey or to taste
  • 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 tea bag or 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea (optional)
  • 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
  • 1 sprig of mint for garnish (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Begin by removing the outer layer of the lemongrass stalks. Then, cut off the lower bulb and discard it. Slice the stalk into 2-inch pieces, pounding them lightly to release the flavors.
  2. In a medium-sized pot, bring the water to a boil.
  3. Add the prepared lemongrass and ginger (if using) to the boiling water.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
  5. If you wish to add tea, put in the tea bag or loose leaf tea at this point and allow it to steep for another 3-5 minutes.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat and strain the tea into a teapot or directly into tea cups.
  7. Stir in the honey and fresh lemon juice (if using), adjusting the sweetness to your liking.
  8. Serve the lemongrass tea hot, garnishing with a sprig of mint if desired.

Tools for making

  • Medium-sized pot - for boiling the water and brewing the tea
  • Teapot - optional, for straining and serving the tea
  • Strainer - for removing the lemongrass and ginger from the tea
  • Knife - for slicing the lemongrass and ginger (if using)
  • Cutting board - to provide a stable surface for cutting the ingredients
  • Measuring spoon - for accurately measuring the honey
  • Spoon - for stirring the tea and mixing in the honey

Recipe variations

  • Add a squeeze of lime juice along with the lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
  • Replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
  • Infuse the tea with other herbs like mint, basil, or lemongrass leaves.
  • Add a cinnamon stick or cardamom pods for a warm and aromatic twist.
  • Add a slice of fresh orange or a few drops of orange blossom water for a citrusy touch.
  • Garnish with a sprinkle of dried lavender flowers for a floral note.
  • Experiment with different types of tea like green tea, black tea, or herbal blends.
  • For an iced version, let the tea cool down and serve over ice, optionally adding a slice of lemon or lime.

Recipe overview

This soothing Lemongrass Tea recipe is a wonderfully fragrant and refreshing herbal drink that's perfect for any season. Made with fresh lemongrass stalks, optional ginger and tea leaves for added depth, and sweetened with honey, this tea has a unique citrusy flavor that can be enjoyed hot or cold. It's a simple, easy-to-follow recipe that offers flexibility—add more or less of any ingredient to suit your personal taste. With its calming aroma and numerous health benefits, this lemongrass tea recipe can be a wonderful addition to your daily routine. Enjoy it on its own, or as a lovely accompaniment to a meal.

Common questions

  1. Can I use dried lemongrass instead of fresh? Yes, you can use dried lemongrass if fresh is not available. However, you may need to adjust the amount, as dried lemongrass is more concentrated in flavor. Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried lemongrass per cup of water.
  2. Can I use lemongrass tea bags instead of fresh lemongrass? Yes, you can use lemongrass tea bags instead of fresh lemongrass. Use 1 tea bag per cup of water, and follow the instructions provided on the tea bag packaging.
  3. Can I skip the ginger? Yes, you can skip the ginger if you prefer a lemongrass tea without ginger flavor. The ginger adds a subtle warmth and depth to the tea, but it is optional.
  4. Can I make lemongrass tea ahead of time and store it? Yes, you can make lemongrass tea ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it is best to consume it within 2-3 days for the freshest flavor.
  5. Can I sweeten the tea with something other than honey? Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners like sugar or maple syrup instead of honey, according to your preference. Adjust the amount to taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Teapot - Essential for steeping and serving the lemongrass tea.
  • Teacups - Used to serve the hot lemongrass tea.
  • Tea strainer - Helps strain out any leaves or herbs when pouring the tea into the teapot or cups.
  • Teaspoons - Used for measuring and stirring in ingredients like honey and lemon juice.
  • Knife - Necessary for cutting and preparing the lemongrass and ginger.
  • Cutting board - Provides a stable surface for cutting the lemongrass and ginger.
  • Pot - Used for boiling and simmering the water with the lemongrass and ginger.
  • Mint sprigs (optional) - A decorative garnish for the served lemongrass tea.

Origin stories

Lemongrass tea, aromatic and full of flavor, originates from South Asia, with a specific spotlight on regions like Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Its popularity quickly spread across the globe due to its incredible health benefits and refreshing taste. The plant's versatility is greatly admired in Asia, where not only the leaves but also the stems and bulbs are used in a variety of dishes. It's interesting to note that during the medieval times, lemongrass was used in soups and teas as a remedy for fevers and as a sedative. Today, lemongrass tea remains a popular herbal tea enjoyed worldwide, a testimony to the age-old wisdom of traditional Asian medicine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.