Authentic Green Tea Recipe – Tulsi & Ginger Infusion

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Green Tea Recipe – Tulsi & Ginger Infusion

Hey everyone! There’s just something so comforting about a warm cup of tea, isn’t there? Especially when it’s infused with the goodness of tulsi and ginger. I first started making this green tea when I was feeling a little under the weather, and it instantly became my go-to for a little pick-me-up. It’s so simple, yet so incredibly flavorful and soothing. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any green tea recipe. It’s a little hug in a mug! It’s quick to make – seriously, just 5 minutes – and perfect for a cozy morning or a relaxing evening. Plus, the addition of tulsi and ginger takes it to a whole new level of wellness. It’s a beautiful blend of flavor and health benefits, and honestly, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful brew:

• 2 cups water (approximately 480ml)
• 2 teaspoons green tea leaves (about 6 grams)
• 4 teaspoons raw sugar (optional, about 20 grams)
• Lemon slice (optional)

Ingredient Notes

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

• Water: Filtered water is always best for the purest flavor.
• Green Tea Leaves: Quality matters! Don’t be afraid to splurge a little on good quality loose leaf tea.
• Sweetener: I prefer raw sugar for a slightly more caramel-like flavor, but you can use honey, jaggery, or any sweetener you like.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the tea beautifully.

Green Tea Varieties

There’s a whole world of green tea out there! Some popular choices include:

• Sencha: A classic Japanese green tea with a grassy, slightly sweet flavor.
• Matcha: A powdered green tea, known for its vibrant color and intense flavor. (This recipe would need adjusting for matcha – it’s whisked, not steeped!)
• Gunpowder: Rolled into tiny pellets, this tea has a smoky flavor.
• Darjeeling Green Tea: A lighter, floral green tea from India.

Tulsi (Holy Basil) – Benefits & Variations

Tulsi, or Holy Basil, is a sacred herb in India, and for good reason! It’s packed with antioxidants and is believed to have numerous health benefits.

• Rama Tulsi: Has a slightly sweet, lemony flavor.
• Krishna Tulsi: More peppery and clove-like.
• Vana Tulsi: A wild variety with a robust, earthy flavor.

You can use fresh tulsi leaves (about 6-8 leaves per cup) or 1/2 teaspoon of dried tulsi powder.

Ginger – Fresh vs. Dried

Ginger adds a lovely warmth and spice to the tea. I usually use fresh ginger because I love the zing, but dried ginger works well too!

• Fresh Ginger: About a 1-inch piece, peeled and grated.
• Dried Ginger Powder: 1/4 teaspoon.

My grandmother always added a tiny pinch of black pepper with the ginger, believing it helped with absorption. It’s a little trick I’ve carried on!

Sweetener Options & Regional Preferences

Sweetness is a personal thing! In India, preferences vary widely.

• North India: Often uses sugar or honey.
• South India: Jaggery (gur) is a popular choice, adding a unique molasses-like flavor.
• East India: Sometimes uses palm sugar.

Feel free to experiment and find what you enjoy most.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some tea!

1. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a gentle simmer over medium heat. You don’t want a rolling boil, just nice little bubbles.
2. Add sweetener (if using) and stir until dissolved. This is also the time to add your spices – a little grated ginger or a pinch of tulsi powder.
3. Remove from heat. Add 2 teaspoons of green tea leaves, cover, and steep for 2-3 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into your favorite cups. Add a squeeze of lemon (optional) and serve hot or chilled.

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to make your green tea perfect:

Adjusting Steeping Time for Flavor

Don’t oversteep! Oversteeping green tea can make it bitter. 2-3 minutes is usually ideal, but you can adjust to your taste. Start with 2 minutes and taste, then steep for another minute if needed.

Water Temperature – The Key to Smoothness

This is so important. Boiling water will scorch the tea leaves and make the tea bitter. Aim for around 175-185°F (80-85°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, let the boiling water sit for a minute or two before pouring it over the tea leaves.

Using Loose Leaf vs. Tea Bags

Loose leaf tea generally offers better flavor and quality. But tea bags are convenient! If using tea bags, use about 2 bags per cup.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan Green Tea

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure your sweetener of choice is also vegan-friendly (avoid honey).

Spice Level Adaptations – More Ginger or Black Pepper

Love a bit of a kick? Add more ginger, or a pinch of black pepper. My friend, Priya, loves to add a tiny piece of chili for a real warming effect!

Festival Adaptations – Monsoon Tea Blend

During the monsoon season, my family loves to add a pinch of cardamom and cloves to the tea for extra warmth and comfort. It’s like a little celebration in a cup.

Iced Green Tea Variation

Let the brewed tea cool completely, then pour over ice. Add a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for extra refreshment.

Serving Suggestions

This tea is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Light snacks like biscuits or fruit.
• Indian sweets like ladoo or barfi.
• A good book and a cozy blanket!

Storage Instructions

Green tea is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavor may diminish slightly.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What is the best water to use for green tea?

Filtered water is best! It allows the delicate flavors of the green tea to shine through.

Can I use other herbs besides tulsi and ginger?

Absolutely! Mint, lemongrass, and chamomile are all lovely additions.

How does water temperature affect the taste of green tea?

Too hot, and the tea will be bitter. Too cold, and the flavor won’t fully develop. Aim for around 175-185°F (80-85°C).

What are the health benefits of adding tulsi to green tea?

Tulsi is an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body cope with stress. It’s also rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Can I make a large batch of green tea and store it?

You can, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you do make a large batch, store it in the refrigerator and consume it within 24 hours.