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Warming Ginger Cinnamon Tea with Fresh Mint

Recipe by Kristina Hanson

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.

  • Total Time30 minutes
  • Yield8 cups 1x

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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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).
  4. Strain and serve: Using a fine-mesh sieve, strain the solids from the liquid. Pour into mugs to enjoy warm.
  5. 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

Serving: 2 Cups (approx. 16 fl oz) | Cal: 11 | Net Carbs: 3g | Fat: 0g (Sat: 0g) | Protein: 0g | Total Carbs: 3g (Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 1g) | Potassium: 45mg

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.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Steep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American Fusion

Find it online: https://dailyzests.com/warming-ginger-cinnamon-tea-with-fresh-mint/