Basil Tea Recipe
Introduction
Basil tea, a delightful infusion of fragrant holy basil, or tulsi, offers not only a refreshing flavor but also an array of health benefits. This simple yet aromatic beverage is perfect for any time of day, particularly as a soothing drink during tea time or a revitalizing start to your morning. Pair it with snacks like a grilled tomato and cheese sandwich or a paneer capsicum sandwich for a delightful experience that elevates your palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 2 cups |
| Tulsi (holy basil) | 8 sprigs |
| Tea leaves | 2 teaspoons |
| Sugar or Honey | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 (approximate) |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Sugars | Varies (if added) |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 2 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 12 minutes |
Instructions
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Boil the Water: Begin by bringing 2 cups of water to a rolling boil in a saucepan, ensuring it’s bubbling vigorously to extract the flavors of the basil and tea leaves effectively.
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Prepare the Basil: While the water heats, take the 8 sprigs of holy basil and wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities. This step not only ensures cleanliness but also enhances the freshness of the leaves.
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Infuse the Basil: Once the water is boiling, add the washed tulsi leaves to the saucepan. Reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer gently on low flame for about 5 minutes. This simmering process allows the aromatic oils from the basil to infuse into the water, creating a fragrant base for your tea.
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Add the Tea Leaves: After 5 minutes of simmering, carefully add the 2 teaspoons of tea leaves to the saucepan. At this point, turn off the heat and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let the tea leaves steep in the hot basil-infused water for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Strain and Sweeten: Once the tea has steeped to your liking, filter the prepared basil tea into cups using a fine strainer to catch the leaves. This step ensures a smooth, enjoyable drinking experience without any leaf residue.
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Serve and Enjoy: Add sugar or honey to taste, stirring well to incorporate your sweetener of choice. For an elevated experience, serve your basil tea alongside delicious snacks like a grilled tomato and cheese sandwich or a paneer capsicum sandwich, enhancing your tea time or breakfast with complementary flavors.
Conclusion
Basil tea not only delights the senses with its aromatic qualities but also brings a touch of wellness into your day. This simple recipe is a testament to the beauty of Indian culinary traditions, merging health benefits with the joy of flavorful drinking experiences. Enjoy your homemade basil tea and let its soothing properties uplift your spirits!
