Herbal Nettle Iced Tea Recipe
This refreshing Herbal Nettle Iced Tea combines the earthy flavors of nettle with invigorating mint and fresh lemon juice. Sweetened naturally with raw honey and optionally enhanced with a pinch of sea salt for minerals, this iced tea is perfect for hydrating on warm days while enjoying the healthful benefits of herbal infusions.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus 4 hours chilling
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Herbal
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Herbal Tea Base
- 1 gallon filtered water
- 1/4 cup dried nettle tea leaves
- 1/8 cup dried mint tea leaves or 10 sprigs fresh mint
Sweetener and Flavorings
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup raw honey
- Juice of 2 freshly squeezed lemons
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (optional for mineral boost)
Instructions
- Prepare the herbal infusion: Bring 2 quarts of filtered water to a boil in a pot. Once boiling, add the dried nettle and mint leaves. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover with a lid, and let it steep for 10 minutes to extract the flavors and nutrients.
- Cool the tea: Remove the pot from heat and let the tea cool to around room temperature. This longer infusion method allows for a more potent and flavorful herbal tea compared to a quick steep.
- Strain the leaves: Using a fine metal mesh strainer, strain out the nettle and mint leaves to obtain a clear tea base. Discard the used leaves.
- Make up the volume and add flavorings: Pour an additional 2 or more quarts of filtered water into the strained tea to reach a full gallon. Then add your desired amount of raw honey (between 1/3 and 1/2 cup), the juice of two fresh lemons, and optionally 1/8 teaspoon of sea salt. Stir thoroughly until the honey has completely dissolved.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the iced tea for at least 4 hours to chill fully and allow flavors to meld. Alternatively, serve immediately poured over ice cubes for a refreshing drink. Enjoy the benefits and crisp taste of this healthy herbal iced tea.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for best taste and vitamin content.
- Adjust the honey to suit your preferred level of sweetness.
- The optional salt enhances mineral content but can be omitted for a low-sodium option.
- For a caffeine-free beverage, ensure the mint and nettle used are herbal varieties without added tea leaves.
- Store leftover tea in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for freshness.
Find it online: https://glowcooks.com/herbal-nettle-iced-tea-recipe/