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Dandelion Tea

A simple, caffeine-free herbal tea made from dandelion leaves or roots with a naturally earthy, slightly bitter flavor that's perfect any time of day.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1 cup
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Herbal, Traditional
Calories: 5

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons dried dandelion leaves or roots
  • 8 ounces 1 cup water, freshly boiled
Optional
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 squeeze lemon juice
  • 1 splash milk or cream

Equipment

  • Kettle or pot
  • Mug or teacup
  • Tea infuser, strainer, or cheesecloth
  • Measuring spoon

Method
 

  1. If using fresh dandelions, rinse the leaves under cool running water and pat them dry with a clean cloth. Remove any yellowed or damaged parts.
  2. If using dried dandelion leaves or roots, measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons depending on desired strength.
  3. Fill your kettle with fresh, filtered water and heat it until it reaches a rolling boil.
  4. Place your dried dandelion leaves, roots, or fresh leaves into a tea infuser, strainer, or small cheesecloth sachet.
  5. Carefully pour the boiling water over your dandelion leaves or roots, fully submerging them.
  6. Let the tea steep for 5 to 7 minutes if using dried leaves, or 8 to 10 minutes if using dried roots or fresh leaves.
  7. Remove the infuser or strain the tea into your mug, leaving the leaves behind.
  8. Serve immediately while still hot. Add honey, lemon juice, or a splash of milk if desired.

Notes

Use fresh, filtered water for brewing to avoid off-flavors. Taste your tea at the 5-minute mark if using dried leaves to prevent over-steeping. Store dried dandelion leaves in an airtight container away from sunlight for several months. When foraging, always pick from areas free of pesticides and chemicals.