Holy Basil Green Tea Recipe – Ginger & Orange Infusion

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Holy Basil Green Tea Recipe – Ginger & Orange Infusion

Introduction

There’s just something so comforting about a warm cup of tea, isn’t there? Especially when it’s packed with goodness! I stumbled upon this Holy Basil Green Tea recipe a few years ago when I was feeling a bit under the weather, and it quickly became my go-to for a little boost. It’s a beautiful blend of flavors – the earthiness of tulsi, the freshness of ginger, and a hint of citrus from the orange peel. It’s seriously a hug in a mug! And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just a tasty drink; it’s a little wellness ritual. It’s perfect when you’re feeling stressed, need a little immunity support, or just want a calming moment in your day. Plus, the aroma alone is enough to lift your spirits. It’s a simple way to incorporate the amazing benefits of Ayurvedic herbs into your routine.

Ingredients

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

• 1 cup water (240ml)
• 20-25 Holy Basil (Tulsi) leaves
• 1 tablespoon green tea
• ?? teaspoon dried orange peel
• ?? teaspoon coriander seeds
• ?? teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A little know-how goes a long way in making this tea extra special.

Holy Basil (Tulsi) – Varieties & Benefits

Holy Basil, or Tulsi, is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine. There are a few different varieties – Rama, Krishna, and Vana. I usually use Rama Tulsi for this tea, as it has a slightly sweeter, more floral flavor. Tulsi is known for its adaptogenic properties, meaning it helps your body cope with stress.

Green Tea – Choosing the Right Type

Any good quality green tea will work beautifully here. Sencha is a popular choice, offering a fresh, grassy flavor. You can also experiment with Jasmine green tea for a floral twist. I prefer to use loose leaf green tea for a more robust flavor, but tea bags are perfectly fine too!

Dried Orange Peel – Preparation & Flavor Profile

Using dried orange peel adds a lovely citrusy aroma and subtle sweetness. You can easily make your own by carefully peeling an orange (avoiding the white pith, which can be bitter) and drying the peels in a cool, dark place. Alternatively, you can find pre-dried orange peel at most spice shops. About 1 teaspoon is a good starting point.

Coriander Seeds – Roasting for Enhanced Aroma

Don’t skip roasting the coriander seeds! It really unlocks their flavor. Just a quick dry roast in a pan for a couple of minutes until fragrant will do the trick. This brings out a warm, nutty aroma that complements the other ingredients. I usually use about ½ to 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds.

Ginger – Fresh vs. Dried & Regional Uses

Fresh ginger is best for this recipe, offering a vibrant, spicy kick. A small piece, about ½ to 1 teaspoon chopped, is usually enough. In some parts of India, especially during the monsoon, people add a pinch of dried ginger powder (sonth) for extra warmth.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s brew some tea!

1. First, pour 1 cup (240ml) of water into a saucepan.
2. Add the holy basil leaves, green tea, dried orange peel, crushed coriander seeds, and chopped ginger to the water.
3. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. You’ll start to smell all those wonderful aromas filling your kitchen!
4. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat.
5. Strain the tea into your favorite mug.
6. And that’s it! Serve hot and enjoy. You can add a touch of sweetener if you like (see variations below).

Expert Tips

• Don’t overboil the tea, as this can make it bitter.
• Adjust the amount of ginger to your liking.
• For a stronger flavor, let the tea steep for a few extra minutes before straining.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation!

Spice Level Adjustment

My friend, Priya, loves a bit more spice, so she adds a tiny pinch of black pepper to her tea. It gives it a lovely warming effect.

Sweetener Options – Natural vs. Refined

I usually add a teaspoon of honey or jaggery (gur) for a natural sweetness. You can also use maple syrup or your preferred sweetener.

Ayurvedic Adaptations

For a more grounding tea, add a pinch of ashwagandha powder. It’s another powerful adaptogen that can help reduce stress.

Festival Adaptations (e.g., Monsoon Season Wellness)

During the monsoon season, my grandmother always added a few cloves and a small piece of cinnamon stick to this tea. It’s believed to boost immunity and ward off colds.

Vegan Adaptation

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

Gluten-Free Adaptation

This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

This tea is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a light snack like a handful of nuts or a small piece of fruit. I love enjoying it with a couple of dates.

Storage Instructions

This tea is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just reheat gently before drinking.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of Holy Basil Green Tea?

This tea is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help boost immunity, reduce stress, and improve digestion.

Can I use fresh orange peel instead of dried?

While you can use fresh orange peel, the flavor won’t be as concentrated. If you do, use about 1 tablespoon of finely grated peel.

How does roasting coriander seeds affect the flavor?

Roasting the coriander seeds brings out their warm, nutty aroma and enhances their flavor. It makes a big difference!

Is this tea suitable for daily consumption?

Yes, in moderation. Most healthy adults can enjoy 1-2 cups of this tea daily.

Can I add other herbs or spices to this tea?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices like cardamom, cloves, or lemongrass.

What is the best time of day to drink this tea?

I love drinking this tea in the morning for a gentle energy boost or in the evening to unwind before bed.