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Costa Rican Tea

A warming, naturally caffeine-free tea blending cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and herbs for a comforting drink in under 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Costa Rican
Calories: 25
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cinnamon stick about 3 inches long
  • 3 whole cloves
  • 2 slices fresh ginger about 1 inch thick each
  • 1 star anise pod
  • 2 tablespoons dried lemongrass or 1 tablespoon lemongrass powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
  • 1 teaspoon dried mint leaves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Honey or sugar to taste optional

Equipment

  • Large pot or kettle
  • Wooden spoon
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mugs for serving
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Gather and measure all spices and herbs before heating water.
  2. Pour 4 cups of cold water into a large pot and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  3. Add cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and star anise to the boiling water.
  4. After 2 minutes, add fresh ginger slices and bay leaf to the pot.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes.
  6. Stir in lemongrass, chamomile, and mint leaves.
  7. Continue to simmer on low heat for another 5 to 7 minutes.
  8. Remove from heat and strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer into mugs.
  9. Add honey or sugar to taste and serve warm immediately.

Notes

Store leftover strained tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.