Making herbal tea from your own garden is a simple and rewarding process! Here's how to do it:
Steps to Making Herbal Tea:
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Harvest Your Herbs: Carefully pick fresh herbs from your garden. Remember that the quantity needed varies depending on the herb. A few sprigs of thyme are different from a handful of mint or lemon balm.
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Rinse the Herbs: Gently rinse the harvested herbs under cool water to remove any dirt or insects.
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Prepare Your Tea Vessel: Add the rinsed herbs to a heat-resistant glass container. A French press, Chemex, or a simple heat-safe glass carafe works well.
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Pour Hot Water: Heat water to just below boiling point (around 200-212°F or 93-100°C). Pour the hot water over the herbs in your chosen vessel.
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Steep the Tea: Allow the tea to steep for about 3 minutes, or longer, depending on your desired strength and the type of herb. Taste-test occasionally to find your perfect steeping time.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh herbs generally require a larger quantity than dried herbs to achieve the same flavor intensity.
- Herb Combinations: Experiment with different herb combinations to create unique and flavorful tea blends. Consider blending herbs like mint, lemon balm, chamomile, and lavender.
- Sweetening (Optional): Add honey, agave nectar, or another natural sweetener to taste, if desired.
- Strain and Enjoy: Once steeped to your liking, strain the tea to remove the herbs (especially if using a French press) and enjoy your homemade herbal infusion!
