Cardamom Mint Green Tea Recipe – Easy Indian Wellness Drink

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Cardamom Mint Green Tea Recipe – Easy Indian Wellness Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a little moment of calm in a busy day. And honestly? This Cardamom Mint Green Tea is my go-to. It’s so simple to make, incredibly refreshing, and feels like a warm hug from the inside out. I first started making this when I was feeling a bit under the weather, and the soothing aroma instantly made me feel better. Now, it’s a regular part of my routine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just a drink; it’s a little ritual. It’s quick – seriously, just a few minutes – and packed with flavour. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate some Ayurvedic principles into your day. Think soothing digestion, a little energy boost, and a whole lot of deliciousness. It’s perfect for a cozy morning, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a relaxing evening treat.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a cup of this goodness:

• 1 cup water (240ml)
• 2 cardamoms
• 7-8 mint leaves
• 1 green tea bag
• 1 tsp honey (approx. 5ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Cardamom: Varieties & Flavor Profile

Cardamom is a superstar spice in Indian cuisine. I prefer using green cardamom for this tea – it has a lovely floral, slightly citrusy flavour. Black cardamom is much smokier and isn’t quite the same here. You can use the pods, or even lightly crush them to release more flavour.

Mint: Fresh vs. Dried & Regional Indian Uses

Fresh mint is always best for this recipe. The aroma is just unbeatable! Spearmint or peppermint both work beautifully. In India, mint (pudina) is used in everything from chutneys to raitas, and it’s known for its cooling properties – perfect for a hot day. Dried mint just doesn’t have the same vibrancy, but in a pinch, use about 1 teaspoon.

Green Tea: Types & Health Benefits

There are so many types of green tea! Sencha and Gunpowder are popular choices. Green tea is known for its antioxidants and gentle energy boost. It’s a wonderful alternative to coffee if you’re looking to cut back.

Honey: Natural Sweetener Options & Alternatives

I love using honey for a touch of natural sweetness. But feel free to experiment! Maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a little jaggery (gur) would be lovely. You can also skip the sweetener altogether if you prefer.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get brewing!

1. First, bring the water to a rolling boil in a saucepan. Once it’s bubbling, gently bruise the cardamoms by lightly crushing them with the flat side of a knife. Add the bruised cardamoms and fresh mint leaves to the boiling water.
2. Let it simmer for just a minute or two – you want to infuse the water with all that lovely flavour.
3. Now, place your green tea bag in your favourite mug or serving glass. Carefully strain the infused hot water over the tea bag.
4. Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you like it. I usually go for about 4 minutes.
5. Finally, stir in the honey until it’s dissolved. And that’s it! Serve immediately and enjoy.

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned along the way:

• Don’t overboil the water after adding the cardamom and mint. You just want to gently infuse the flavours.
• Bruising the cardamom really helps release its aroma.
• Adjust the steeping time for the green tea to your liking.
• For a stronger mint flavour, gently muddle the mint leaves before adding them to the water.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to play around with:

Vegan Adaptation

Simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. It’s just as delicious!

Spice Level Adjustment

If you like a little more warmth, add a tiny pinch of ground ginger or a sliver of fresh ginger to the boiling water.

Festival/Seasonal Adaptations (e.g., Monsoon Wellness)

During the monsoon season in India, adding a pinch of turmeric to the boiling water is a fantastic way to boost your immunity.

Iced Cardamom Mint Green Tea

Let the infused water cool completely, then pour it over ice with the green tea bag. Steep as usual, then add honey to taste. Perfect for a hot summer day!

Variations with Different Tea Types (e.g., White Tea)

White tea is a delicate and subtle alternative to green tea. It pairs beautifully with cardamom and mint.

Serving Suggestions

I love to enjoy this tea on its own, but it’s also lovely with a light snack like a few biscuits or a piece of fruit. It’s also a wonderful accompaniment to a simple Indian breakfast like poha or upma.

Storage Instructions

This tea is best enjoyed fresh! However, you can make the infused water ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just reheat it before adding the tea bag and honey.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

Is this tea caffeine-free?

No, green tea contains caffeine, although less than coffee. If you’re looking for a caffeine-free option, you could try using chamomile tea instead.

Can I use cardamom powder instead of whole cardamoms?

You can, but the flavour won’t be quite as vibrant. Use about ¼ teaspoon of cardamom powder.

What are the health benefits of cardamom and mint together?

Cardamom and mint are both known for their digestive benefits. They can help soothe bloating, reduce nausea, and freshen breath. Plus, they’re both packed with antioxidants!

Can I make a larger batch of the infused water ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and store the infused water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

Start with 1 teaspoon of honey and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!