Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink that wraps you in warmth and comfort, Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is just what you need! This delightful tea isn’t just a remedy for the common cold; it’s a hug in a mug that can brighten any chilly day. I love making this tea when the weather turns crisp or during family gatherings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and fills your home with the sweet, spicy aroma of apples, ginger, and cinnamon.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, where she would brew up this magical potion to soothe us when we weren’t feeling our best. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxing Sunday afternoon, this warm, comforting drink is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious tea ready in no time.
• Health Benefits: The combination of ginger and cinnamon offers warming properties that may help boost your immune system.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet apple flavor while adults appreciate the gentle spice from ginger and cinnamon.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot for a cozy treat, or chill it for a refreshing drink on warmer days.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this tea in advance and store it for later enjoyment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this recipe is a breeze since it calls for simple, wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them at home already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (Sweet, firm, preferably organic apples such as Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh)
• 10 cups water
• 2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar
• 4 inch (55 grams) Ginger (preferably organic)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

Variations

One of the best things about Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is how flexible it can be. Feel free to experiment with these fun variations:

• Add Honey: For an extra touch of sweetness, stir in some honey after brewing.
• Mix in Citrus: A splash of lemon or orange juice adds a refreshing zing to each sip.
• Herbal Twist: Try adding some chamomile flowers during steeping for an herbal flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or more black peppercorns.

How to Make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly under running water. Quarter them and remove the cores—there’s no need to peel them! Leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and color to your tea.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You have two great options here! If you’re short on time, using an Instant Pot makes this process super quick. Just toss everything into the pot and let it work its magic for 18 minutes at high pressure. Alternatively, if you prefer a more traditional method or want to enjoy watching your tea brew, simmer it on the stove until the apples are soft.

Step 3: Strain Your Tea

Once your tea has brewed to perfection, it’s time to transfer it into a pitcher or glass jar. Place a fine mesh sieve over the opening to catch any bits of apple and spices. Pour slowly so that everything stays contained. Press down gently on the apples with a spoon to extract all their wonderful juices!

Step 4: Let It Cool

Allow your tea to cool completely at room temperature before sealing it up in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy it at any temperature that suits your fancy—hot when you’re chilly or cold when it’s warm outside.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Now comes the fun part! Pour yourself a cup of this delightful Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha), sit back, relax, and savor every sip. Whether you enjoy it steaming hot or chilled over ice, you’re sure to fall in love with its comforting flavors!

Pro Tips for Making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Making this delightful drink is a breeze, and these tips will help you elevate your experience even further!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet and firm varieties like Gala or Fuji to ensure your tea has a naturally sweet flavor without needing too much added sugar.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using honey or a natural sweetener instead.

• Fresh ingredients matter: Using freshly sliced ginger will give your tea an aromatic kick! The fresher the ingredients, the better the flavors will infuse together.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon and ginger are traditional, adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can introduce exciting layers of flavor that complement the apple beautifully.

• Make it ahead of time: This tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Making it in advance means you can enjoy a comforting cup whenever you need it!

How to Serve Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Serving this warm apple tea is all about creating a cozy atmosphere. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a relaxing afternoon, here are some ideas to make your presentation special.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add an unexpected freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm spices.
• Cinnamon stick: Placing a whole cinnamon stick in each cup not only looks beautiful but also enhances the drink’s aroma as you sip.
• Apple slices: Thinly sliced apples can float on top, providing an inviting visual and reinforcing the apple flavor in each cup.

Side Dishes

• Rice cakes (Tteok): These chewy Korean rice cakes make for a delightful pairing, offering a subtle sweetness that complements the tea without overwhelming it.
• Biscotti: A crunchy biscotti adds texture and can be dipped into your warm apple tea, making for an enjoyable snack experience.
• Honey-roasted nuts: A mix of honey-roasted almonds or walnuts provides a satisfying crunch and pairs beautifully with the flavors of ginger and cinnamon.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can refresh your palate between sips of warm tea, making it an excellent side dish choice.

Now that you’re equipped with tips for preparation and serving suggestions, it’s time to enjoy this heartwarming drink! Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it by yourself, Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is sure to bring comfort and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this comforting drink whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tea to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the tea into a pitcher or glass jar with a tight seal.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled tea into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly and label with the date.
• Freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen tea in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, pour into a saucepan and warm over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Many readers may have questions about this delightful tea. Here are some common ones:

What are the health benefits of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is packed with beneficial ingredients! Apples provide antioxidants, while ginger aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, making this tea not only comforting but also a healthy choice.

Can I make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can easily prepare this tea on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients together. Just follow the stovetop directions provided in the recipe for a delicious outcome.

How long does Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your homemade Korean Apple Tea can last up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

Is Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) suitable for kids?

Yes! This warm drink is sweetened naturally with apples and brown sugar, making it a delightful treat for children. Just keep an eye on their tolerance for ginger’s spiciness!

Can I adjust the sweetness of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Definitely! You can adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a less sweet drink, feel free to reduce or omit it entirely.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm hug in a cup—Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)! It’s not just a drink; it’s a heartfelt remedy that brings comfort during chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. I truly believe that you’ll find joy in every sip as much as I do. Happy brewing!

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