Lemon Honey Black Tea Recipe – Quick & Easy Indian Chai

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Lemon Honey Black Tea Recipe – Quick & Easy Indian Chai

Okay, let’s be real. Sometimes you just need a comforting cup of chai, right? But maybe you’re not craving something super milky or spiced. This Lemon Honey Black Tea is my go-to when I want something simple, soothing, and just a little bit zingy. I first made this when I was feeling under the weather, and honestly, it felt like a warm hug in a mug! It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your typical masala chai, but it’s incredibly satisfying. It’s quick to make – seriously, under 10 minutes! – and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s wonderfully versatile. You can adjust the honey and lemon to your liking, and even add a little spice if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s the perfect pick-me-up any time of day.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to brew up a batch of this lovely tea:

• 2 cups water (approximately 480ml)
• 1 teaspoon black tea leaves (around 2-3 grams)
• A few drops of lemon extract (or juice from ¼ lemon)
• 1-2 teaspoons honey (or to taste)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk tea! Black tea is the star here, and you have options.

• Assam tea will give you a robust, malty flavor – perfect if you like a strong brew.
• Darjeeling tea, often called the “Champagne of Teas,” is more delicate and floral.
• Nilgiri tea is a lighter, brighter option, grown in the South Indian hills.

Don’t underestimate the power of good honey! I always try to use local honey whenever possible. Not only does it support local beekeepers, but it also often has a more complex flavor profile. Plus, local honey might help with seasonal allergies – a little bonus!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get brewing! It’s super easy, I promise.

1. Pour two cups of water into a saucepan.
2. Add one teaspoon of your favorite black tea leaves to the water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer and steep the tea leaves for 5-10 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor will be. I usually go for about 7 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat and carefully strain the tea into your favorite mug. A fine-mesh strainer works best.
6. Let the tea cool slightly until it’s lukewarm. This is important so the honey doesn’t just sink to the bottom!
7. Add a few drops of lemon extract (or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice) and honey, stirring well until everything is dissolved.
8. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overboil the water! It can make the tea taste bitter.
• If you’re using loose leaf tea, a tea infuser can make straining a breeze.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the honey and lemon to find your perfect balance.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: My friend, Priya, loves adding a tiny sliver of ginger or a pinch of cardamom to the saucepan while the tea is simmering. It adds a lovely warmth.
• Festival Adaptations: During the monsoon season, this tea is amazing with a little extra honey. It’s such a comforting drink on a rainy day.
• Honey Substitutions: If you don’t have honey, you can use jaggery (gur) for a more traditional Indian sweetness, or even a touch of maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

This tea is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a light snack. I love it with a couple of biscuits or a small piece of fruit. It’s also lovely served alongside a simple breakfast like toast and eggs.

Storage Instructions

This tea is best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before reheating. Reheating gently is best – you don’t want to lose all those lovely flavors!

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this tea good for a sore throat? Absolutely! The honey and lemon are both soothing for a sore throat, and the warm liquid can provide relief.
• Can I use green tea instead of black tea? You can, but the flavor will be quite different. Green tea is lighter and more grassy.
• How can I make this tea iced? Brew the tea as usual, let it cool completely, and then pour it over ice. Add extra lemon and honey to taste.
• What is the best type of honey to use? Honestly, whatever you enjoy! But I recommend trying local, raw honey for the best flavor and potential health benefits.
• Can I prepare this tea in advance? You can brew the tea concentrate and store it in the fridge, then dilute with hot water and add lemon/honey when you’re ready to drink.