Citronelle Tea (Dite Citronel)
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- Fresh Lemongrass stalks, bruised and roughly chopped — 4-5
- Water — 1 L (4 cups)
- Honey or sugar, to taste (optional)
Method
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the bruised lemongrass stalks.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes to release the fragrant oils.
- Remove from heat and let steep a further 5 minutes.
- Strain into cups.
- Sweeten with honey or sugar if desired, and serve hot.
Introduction: A fragrant herbal tea made from fresh lemongrass, a soothing everyday Seychellois beverage.
Cultural Background: Lemongrass, known locally as citronelle, grows abundantly across the Seychelles and is commonly brewed into a fragrant, calming tea enjoyed throughout the day, valued for both its flavour and traditional soothing properties.
Tips: Bruise the lemongrass well before adding to release its full fragrance. Simmer gently rather than boiling vigorously, as this preserves the delicate aromatic oils.
Variations: Add a few slices of fresh ginger for extra warmth; a squeeze of lime brightens the flavour nicely.
Storage: Store any leftover brewed tea in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, or enjoy chilled over ice.
Nutrition: Approx. 5 kcal, 0 g protein, 1 g carbohydrate, 0 g fat per cup (without sweetener).
FAQs:
Q: What does lemongrass tea taste like?
A: A fresh, citrusy, slightly floral flavour, gentle and soothing, often enjoyed both hot and cold.
Q: Can dried lemongrass be used instead of fresh?
A: Yes, dried lemongrass works well, though fresh stalks give the most vibrant, fragrant result.
- Fresh Lemongrass stalks, bruised and roughly chopped — 4-5
- Water — 1 L (4 cups)
- Honey or sugar, to taste (optional)
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