Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink that warms your heart and soothes your soul, you’ve come to the right place! My Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is a cherished recipe passed down from my grandma, who always knew how to make even the coldest days feel a little brighter. This tea is not just a delightful beverage; it’s a comforting hug in a cup that’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings.

This simple yet flavorful drink combines the sweetness of apples with the zesty warmth of ginger and cinnamon. It’s an easy-to-make remedy that brings immense health benefits and adds a touch of love to any occasion. Trust me, once you take your first sip, you’ll understand why this recipe is so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious tea brewing in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone, from kids to grandparents, will enjoy the warm flavors and delightful aroma.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare a big batch and store it for quick access throughout the week.
• Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants, this tea can help soothe colds and boost your immune system.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this heartwarming tea, we use simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local market. Let’s gather these goodies to create our Korean Apple Tea!

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (Sweet, firm varieties like Gala or Fuji work best)
• 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 beautiful things about Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add some citrus: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for a zesty twist!
• Spice it up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or clove for extra warmth.
• Make it fruity: Toss in some pear slices along with the apples for added flavor.
• Try herbal enhancements: Add fresh mint leaves when serving for a refreshing finish.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter them and remove the cores; there’s no need to peel them. The apple skins add flavor and nutrients to our tea!

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You have two great options here! If you’re short on time, you can use an Instant Pot. Just add the apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water into the cooking pot. Lock in the lid and cook at high pressure for 18 minutes. For those who prefer traditional methods, combine all ingredients in a stock pot on the stove. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat and letting it simmer until the apples are soft—about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Strain Your Tea

Once cooked, it’s time to transfer your lovely brew! Place a fine mesh sieve over a pitcher or jar. Pour slowly so you keep all those delicious apple bits inside. Use the back of a spoon to press on the apples gently; this releases their sweet juices into the tea.

Step 4: Cool Down

Let your tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it in jars or pitchers for storage. This helps preserve all those beautiful flavors!

Step 5: Enjoy!

Now comes the best part—pour yourself a cup of this soothing Korean Apple Tea! Enjoy it hot for maximum comfort or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing treat later on.

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy into your home just as it has in mine!

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

Making your own Korean Apple Tea at home is a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you take it to the next level!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet, firm varieties like Gala or Fuji. These apples not only enhance the flavor but also provide a natural sweetness that reduces the need for added sugar.

• Fresh ginger is key: Use fresh, organic ginger for the best flavor and health benefits. Dried ginger lacks the essential oils that contribute to the drink’s warm, soothing properties.

• Don’t rush the steeping process: Allowing the tea to steep off heat for an additional 10 minutes after cooking helps deepen the flavors. This step ensures that every sip is packed with warmth and richness.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: The amount of brown sugar can be modified based on your preference for sweetness. Start with less if you’re unsure, as the apples will provide natural sugars too.

• Store properly: Ensure your apple tea is cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavor over time.

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

Serving your delicious homemade Korean Apple Tea can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting beverage beautifully.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon stick: Use a whole cinnamon stick as a stirrer for an aromatic touch while drinking.
• Apple slices: Float thinly sliced fresh apples on top of each cup for an appealing decoration and extra flavor.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint can add a refreshing hint and beautiful color contrast to your tea.

Side Dishes

• Korean Rice Cakes (Tteok): These chewy treats complement the warming spices in Saegwa Cha beautifully, adding texture and sweetness.
• Sweet Potato Chips: Crunchy and lightly salted, these chips provide a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the tea.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness to your meal; consider using seasonal fruits like oranges or berries for a vibrant splash of color.
• Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted nuts seasoned with spices offers a crunchy snack that pairs well with the sweet and spicy notes of your tea.

Enjoy sharing this wonderful drink with friends and family—it’s sure to warm their hearts!

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 to enjoy throughout the week, adding convenience and comfort to your daily routine.

Storing Leftovers

• Pour any leftover tea into a clean pitcher or glass jar.
• Seal it tightly with a lid or cover.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing

• Allow the tea to cool completely before freezing.
• Pour into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion.
• Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator or use directly in your favorite recipes.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stove over medium heat until warm.
• You can also microwave in a microwave-safe container, but do so in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between to avoid overheating.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful drink, you’re in the right place!

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

You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste preference. Start with less sugar and add gradually until you reach your desired level of sweetness.

Can I use different fruits in my Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Absolutely! While apples are traditional, feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or even berries for a unique twist on this comforting drink.

Is Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) good for colds?

Yes! The combination of ginger and cinnamon is known for its soothing properties, making this tea a great home remedy when you’re feeling under the weather.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) as much as I do! This recipe is not just about warmth; it’s a comforting hug in a mug that brings back fond memories of family and care. Enjoy every sip, whether hot or cold, and don’t hesitate to share this delightful drink with your loved ones. Happy brewing!