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Chrysanthemum Tea (菊花茶 (Júhuā Chá))

sjfegan

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4
Servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp dried chrysanthemum flowers
  • 960ml (4 cups) Hot water
  • 1 tbsp honey, or to taste (optional)

Method

  1. Place the dried chrysanthemum flowers in a teapot or heatproof pitcher.
  2. Pour over the hot water.
  3. Steep for 5–7 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
  4. Strain into cups and sweeten with honey if desired.
  5. Serve warm.

Introduction: A delicate, fragrant tea steeped from dried chrysanthemum flowers, valued in ancient China for both its taste and believed cooling properties.

Cultural Background: Chrysanthemum tea holds a long history in Chinese culture, the flower itself carrying symbolic and medicinal significance, traditionally believed to cool the body and soothe the eyes, enjoyed across many centuries of Chinese life.

Tips: Use water just off the boil rather than fully boiling, as this preserves the delicate floral flavour. Adjust the steeping time to taste, as longer steeping produces a stronger flavour.

Variations: Add a few goji berries for extra visual appeal and a mild sweetness. Serve chilled over ice as a refreshing summer variation.

Storage: Best made fresh; not suitable for storing.

Reheating: Reheat gently if needed, without over-boiling.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 20 kcal, 0 g protein, 0 g fat, 5 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: What properties was chrysanthemum tea believed to have?

A: Ancient Chinese medicinal traditions considered it a cooling drink, believed to soothe the eyes and clear internal heat.

Q: Is chrysanthemum tea caffeinated?

A: No, unlike tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant, chrysanthemum tea is a naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion.

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