Drinks
Moroccan Mint Tea
Ingredients
- - 4 cups water
- - 3 tbsp loose green tea (gunpowder green tea traditional)
- - 1 large bunch fresh mint leaves
- - 4-6 tbsp sugar, to taste
Method
- Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Place the green tea leaves in the teapot and pour over a small amount of the boiling water. Swirl briefly and discard this first rinse of water (this removes bitterness).
- Add the fresh mint leaves and sugar to the teapot, then pour in the remaining boiling water.
- Let steep for 5-8 minutes.
- Pour the tea into glasses from a height to create a light froth on top, then pour it back into the pot once and repeat to mix thoroughly.
- Serve hot in small glasses, with extra mint leaves for garnish if desired.
Native Name: Atay bi Na'na (Moroccan Jewish)
Dietary Tags: Pareve, Vegan, Kosher
Cultural Background: Sweet mint tea is a cornerstone of hospitality in Moroccan Jewish households, traditionally poured from a height to create a light froth on top as a gesture of welcome to guests. Moroccan Jewish families carried this tradition with them to Israel and beyond, where it remains a symbol of warmth and generosity.
Tips: Discarding the first quick rinse of hot water over the tea leaves removes excess bitterness and is a genuine traditional step, not just a decorative flourish.
Variations: Add a few pine nuts or almonds to the glass for a festive touch, or swap sugar for honey for a different sweetness.
Storage: Best served fresh and hot; leftover tea can be kept and served cold over ice within a few hours.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop if the tea has cooled, though it is traditionally enjoyed hot immediately after brewing.
Nutrition: Approx. 60 kcal, 0 g protein, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrate per serving.
FAQs:
Q: Why is the tea poured from a height?
A: Pouring from a height aerates the tea, creating a light froth on top which is considered both a mark of proper preparation and a gesture of hospitality.
Q: Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?
A: Fresh mint is preferred for its brighter flavour and aroma, though a smaller quantity of dried mint can be substituted in a pinch.
Q: How much sugar is traditional?
A: Traditional Moroccan mint tea is quite sweet, but the amount can be adjusted to taste – start with less and add more if desired.