Introduction
The art of adding honey and lemon to tea dates back centuries, with roots in traditional Chinese medicine where each ingredient was valued for its therapeutic properties. Green tea, prized for its antioxidants, was often combined with honey, a natural preservative and sweetener, and lemon, rich in vitamin C. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), tea scholars would write about the importance of proper tea preparation, including the careful balance of additional ingredients. Today, this combination remains popular not only for its health benefits but also as a comforting ritual practiced in homes worldwide, particularly during cold and flu season.
Ingredients
• 4 premium green tea bags (preferably Japanese sencha or gyokuro)
• 4 cups filtered water at 175°F/80°C
• 2 medium lemons, freshly squeezed (about 4-5 tablespoons juice)
• 3 tablespoons raw honey, or to taste
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced for garnish (optional)
• Ice cubes (if serving cold)
Step 1:
Heat filtered water to exactly 175°F/80°C. If you don't have a temperature-controlled kettle, bring water to a boil and let it cool for about 2 minutes.
Step 2:
Place green tea bags in a large pitcher or serving vessel.
Step 3:
Pour the heated water over the tea bags and steep for exactly 2 minutes. Remove tea bags promptly to prevent bitterness.
Step 4:
While tea is still warm, stir in honey until completely dissolved.
Step 5:
Add fresh lemon juice and stir well to combine.
Step 6:
If serving hot, pour into cups immediately. For cold tea, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or serve over ice.
Step 7:
Garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Q: Why is water temperature so important?
A: Green tea requires lower temperature water (175°F/80°C) to prevent bitterness and preserve delicate flavors.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A: Fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended as it provides the brightest flavor and best complements the tea.
Q: How long can I store this tea?
A: When refrigerated in an airtight container, the tea will maintain its best flavor for up to 48 hours.
• For best results, use high-quality green tea - Japanese varieties like sencha or gyokuro offer the best flavor profile.
• Water temperature is crucial - too hot will make the tea bitter. Aim for 175°F/80°C.
• Honey can be substituted with agave nectar for vegan option.
• Meyer lemons can be used for a sweeter, more complex citrus flavor.
• Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
• Store any leftover tea covered in refrigerator for up to 48 hours.
Serve hot or over ice in tall glasses. Garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired. For optimal flavor, serve immediately.
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Do not add ice until serving.
Heat water while preparing lemons to maximize efficiency. Remove tea bags promptly at 2 minutes to prevent bitterness.
- Never squeeze tea bags as this releases bitter compounds
- Use filtered water for the cleanest taste
- Add honey while tea is warm for better dissolution
Try using Meyer lemons for a sweeter flavor, or substitute honey with agave nectar for a vegan version. Can be infused with fresh mint or ginger for additional complexity.
Pairs well with light pastries, sushi, or Asian-inspired salads. Excellent with cucumber sandwiches or mochi.
Enjoyable year-round. Particularly refreshing when served cold in summer months.
Contains honey. Suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Vegan if honey is substituted with agave nectar.
