Description
A refreshing Ginger Orange Tea that combines the zesty flavors of fresh ginger, lemongrass, black tea, and bright orange juice, served chilled over ice for a revitalizing drink perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
Tea Base
- 2 lemongrass stalks (plus more for serving if desired)
- 1 cup water
- 1.5-2 tablespoons black tea
- 2 small pieces of ginger, slightly crushed
Syrup and Juice
- 2-3 tablespoons ginger syrup, divided
- 1 cup fresh orange juice, divided (from about 2 large oranges)
To Serve
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare Lemongrass Infusion: Cut the lemongrass stalks into 4-inch pieces and gently bruise them to release flavor. Place the lemongrass and 1 cup of water into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with the lid slightly askew and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Steep Black Tea: After simmering, turn off the heat and add 1.5-2 tablespoons of black tea leaves to the hot lemongrass water, ensuring the temperature is about 200°F (95°C). Cover again with the lid slightly ajar and steep for 4 to 5 minutes to extract the tea flavors.
- Strain Brewed Tea: Strain the brewed tea through a fine sieve to remove tea leaves, lemongrass, and ginger pieces. You should obtain approximately 3/4 cup (180ml) of brewed tea. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix Drink (Cocktail Shaker Method): In a cocktail shaker, add one piece of crushed ginger, one 3 to 4-inch bruised lemongrass stalk, half of the brewed tea, 1 to 1½ tablespoons of ginger syrup, half of the fresh orange juice, and plenty of ice cubes. Shake vigorously to blend flavors and chill the drink. Fill a serving glass with 6 to 7 ice cubes and strain the shaken mixture into the glass immediately.
- Mix Drink (No Shaker Method): Alternatively, combine all ingredients—crushed ginger, bruised lemongrass stalk, half the brewed tea, ginger syrup, and fresh orange juice—in a glass. Stir thoroughly to mix, then add ice cubes and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of ginger syrup to balance sweetness according to your taste.
- Using fresh lemongrass and fresh-squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor complexity and freshness of the tea.
- For a stronger ginger flavor, add an extra piece of crushed ginger when shaking or stirring.
- This tea can be served warm by skipping the ice cubes and drinking right after brewing.
- Refrigerate any leftover brewed tea and ginger syrup mixture and consume within 24 hours for best taste.
