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Filipino Spiced Tea 2

Serves 4 to 6 Beverage vegan, Beverages

Filipino Spiced Tea 2

Filipino Spiced Tea 2 is a cherished staple at Filipino home tables, prepared with a loving hand and a pinch of intuition. This version captures the essence of family kitchens, where salt is measured by feel and fat is embraced with gusto. Here, it's about the simple joy of sharing, a warm cup in hand, amidst the everyday rhythms of life. This tea is not reserved for special occasions but instead finds its place in the comforting routine of daily living.

The tea itself offers an inviting warmth, with the boldness of tea leaves harmoniously mingling with spices and sweetness adjusted to personal preference. Each sip is a gentle embrace, the flavors bold yet comforting, crafted to match the rhythm of familial conversation. Enjoy it fresh from the pot, steaming and fragrant, in the company of loved ones or in the solace of a quiet moment.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsptea leaves
  • 500 mlwater
  • to tastespices
  • to tastesugar

Method

  1. Start by bringing 500 ml of water to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Use medium-high heat to ensure the water reaches a rolling boil without evaporating too quickly. This will be the base for your tea, providing the right amount of liquid for the infusion.
  2. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and add 2 tbsp of tea leaves. Stir gently to ensure the leaves are fully submerged and begin to release their flavors. Allow the tea to steep for about 3-4 minutes, or until the water takes on a rich, deep color and the aroma of the tea is pronounced.
  3. Add spices to taste, such as cinnamon, star anise, or cloves, to infuse the tea with a warm, spiced aroma. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to over-stir, which can cause the tea to become cloudy. Let the spices steep for an additional 2-3 minutes until their fragrance is fully released.
  4. Taste the tea and add sugar to your preference, stirring until it dissolves completely. The sugar should balance the spices without overpowering them, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Adjust the sweetness gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the desired balance.
  5. Once the tea has reached your preferred taste, remove the saucepan from the heat. Strain the tea into a teapot or directly into serving glasses to remove the tea leaves and spices. This ensures a smooth, clear tea without any sediment.
  6. Serve the Filipino Spiced Tea 2 immediately in traditional glassware. The tea should be warm and fragrant, inviting guests to enjoy its comforting flavors. Share it with family and friends, embodying the communal spirit of Filipino dining.
Cover of Authentic Filipino Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Filipino Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Filipino Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Filipino volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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