Description

This soothing, aromatic infusion is a staple in my kitchen whenever I crave something cozy but light. The natural heat from fresh ginger combined with the brightness of lemon makes it incredibly satisfying without being heavy or sweet. It’s a gentle, caffeine-free way to stay hydrated and warm up during the colder months.

Ingredients

Scale

8 cups filtered water (approx. 1.9 L)
1 piece (3-inch) fresh ginger root (peeled and sliced)
4 cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves (optional, for added depth)
1 large lemon (sliced into rounds)
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (packed)

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Instructions

Simmer the spices: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the filtered water, sliced ginger, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil.
Infuse the flavor: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid turns a light golden color and smells intensely aromatic.
Steep the fresh ingredients: Remove the pot from the heat. Immediately add the lemon slices and fresh mint leaves. Cover the pot with a lid and let it steep for 5 to 7 minutes. (Note: Adding these off the heat prevents the lemon pith from turning the tea bitter).
Strain and serve: Using a fine-mesh sieve, strain the solids from the liquid. Pour into mugs to enjoy warm.
Cool and store: If making ahead, let the remaining tea cool quickly to room temperature (within 2 hours), then transfer to a sealed glass pitcher or jar. Store in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Notes

Why it works:
- Simmering vs. Steeping: Hard spices like cinnamon and ginger need active simmering to release their flavor, while delicate items like mint and lemon release their oils best through gentle steeping off the heat.
- Flavor Balance: Reducing the cinnamon slightly from typical heavy ratios allows the fresh ginger “kick” to shine through without being overpowered.
Key Success Warnings:
- Watch the bitterness: Do not boil the lemon slices. The white pith releases bitter compounds if exposed to high heat for too long; always add them after removing the water from the stove.
- Storage: Ensure you strain the solids out completely before storing. Leaving the ginger or lemon in the liquid overnight can alter the flavor profile significantly.
Allergy Alert: This recipe is naturally free of common allergens (nuts, gluten, dairy, soy, eggs).

Nutrition

Nutrition information is calculated using third-party databases and is provided as a courtesy. Since values vary by brand and produce, we suggest calculating them yourself for the most accurate results.