There’s nothing quite like sipping on a cool, soothing glass of iced chamomile tea on a warm summer’s day. This recipe combines the gentle, floral notes of chamomile with the natural sweetness of honey, creating a refreshing beverage that’s both delicious and calming. Let’s dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that’s sure to become your new summer favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 chamomile tea bags
- 4 cups hot water
- 2-3 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh chamomile flowers for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brew the tea: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add 4 chamomile tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
- Sweeten: While the tea is still warm, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of honey until completely dissolved. The honey will not only add sweetness but also enhance the floral notes of the chamomile.
- Cool down: Remove the tea bags and let the sweetened tea cool to room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent the ice from melting too quickly and diluting your tea.
- Chill: Once cooled, transfer the tea to a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled chamomile tea over the ice. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each glass with a fresh chamomile flower.
Serving Suggestions
Present your iced chamomile tea in tall, clear glasses to showcase its golden hue. The ice cubes will clink softly against the glass, creating a symphony of summer sounds. As you bring the glass to your lips, inhale deeply – the gentle aroma of chamomile will transport you to a serene meadow on a warm afternoon.
For an extra special touch, try freezing small chamomile flowers in your ice cubes. Not only will this add a beautiful visual element, but it will also infuse your tea with a subtle floral essence as the ice melts.
Pro Tip: For a more intense flavor, double the amount of tea bags used. This will create a stronger concentrate that can stand up to melting ice without losing its distinctive taste.
Enjoy your homemade iced chamomile tea as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up, a soothing pre-bedtime drink, or as an elegant non-alcoholic option for summer gatherings. Its versatility and simplicity make it a perfect go-to beverage for any occasion.
