Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)
If you’re looking for a warm, soothing drink that feels like a hug in a mug, then you’ve come to the right place! My Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is not only comforting but also packed with wonderful health benefits. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and it holds a special spot in my heart. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, you’ll find yourself reaching for this delightful tea whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can whip it up quickly and enjoy the fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh apples and spices that you probably already have on hand!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious homemade beverage ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults adore this sweet and spicy tea, making it perfect for everyone.
- Health Benefits: Packed with ginger and cinnamon, this tea is a natural remedy for colds and chills.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Whether you drink it hot, cold, or at room temperature, it’s refreshing any way you like!
- Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare a large batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later enjoyment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You’ll love how each one contributes to the heartwarming flavor of this tea. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (preferably organic varieties like 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 (Saegwa Cha) is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations:
- Add Citrus: A splash of fresh lemon or orange juice adds brightness to the tea.
- Sweeten Differently: Try using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Mix in Herbal Tea: Enhance the flavor by adding chamomile or green tea bags while steeping.
- Infuse with Other Spices: Cardamom or cloves can introduce new warmth and depth to your drink.
How to Make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)
Step 1: Chop the Apples
Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter them and remove the cores; there’s no need to peel them! Keeping the skin on adds flavor and nutrients to your tea.
Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method
You can make this delightful tea either in an Instant Pot or on the stove. If you’re short on time, using an Instant Pot is quick and efficient. Simply add the chopped apples along with sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, and water. Lock the lid into place and cook for 18 minutes at high pressure.
For the stovetop method, combine all ingredients in a stock pot. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to simmer until the apples soften—about 30 minutes will do! After that, let it steep off heat for another 10 minutes to deepen those flavors.
Step 3: Transfer Your Tea
Once cooked, it’s time to transfer your delicious apple tea into a pitcher or glass jar. Use a fine mesh sieve over your container so that any debris stays behind. Pour slowly and gently; press down with a large spoon on the soft apples occasionally to release their juices into your brew.
Step 4: Cool Down
Let your tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it in an airtight container. This helps preserve its wonderful flavors for later enjoyment!
Step 5: Enjoy!
Now comes the best part—pour yourself a cup of this lovely Korean Apple Tea! Whether you prefer it hot during chilly days or cold as a refreshing drink in warmer weather, you’re sure to be delighted by its deliciousness.
Happy sipping!
Pro Tips for Making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)
Making Korean Apple Tea is a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure your tea turns out perfectly every time.
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Choose the right apples: Using sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji enhances the flavor of the tea, providing a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the ginger and cinnamon.
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Slice ginger thinly: Thinly slicing the ginger allows it to release its warming essence more effectively, infusing the tea with its soothing properties without overwhelming the apple flavor.
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Let it steep longer: After cooking, letting your tea steep off heat for an additional 10 minutes helps deepen the flavors. This extra time allows the spices to fully integrate, making every sip more aromatic and delicious.
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Press the apples gently: When pouring your tea, pressing down on the softened apples helps release even more juice into your drink. This step enhances the overall sweetness and richness of the tea.
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Store properly: If you have leftovers, store your tea in a tightly sealed jar or pitcher in the fridge. It can last up to a week, allowing you to enjoy this comforting drink whenever you like!
How to Serve Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)
Serving Korean Apple Tea can be as simple or as fancy as you desire. This warm beverage is perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet moment by yourself. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful drink.
Garnishes
- Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top adds an appealing visual element and enhances the warm spice aroma.
- Apple slices: Thinly sliced fresh apples can be floated atop each serving for a lovely touch and subtle crunch.
- Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint create a refreshing contrast and bring a pop of color to your presentation.
Side Dishes
- Rice Cakes (Tteok): These chewy, slightly sweet rice cakes are perfect for pairing with tea. They add texture and a hint of sweetness that complements the apple flavors beautifully.
- Steamed Sweet Potatoes: Soft and naturally sweet, steamed sweet potatoes make for a wholesome side dish that balances out the warmth of the tea.
- Savory Pan-Fried Vegetables: Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables seasoned with sesame oil provide a savory contrast to the sweet apple tea.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits can provide a bright contrast in flavors while keeping everything light and healthy.
Enjoying Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is not just about sipping; it’s about creating an experience that warms both your heart and home!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious tea.
Storing Leftovers
- Pour any leftover tea into an airtight container or pitcher.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Always ensure that the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezing
- Allow the tea to cool completely before freezing.
- Pour the cooled tea into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays.
- Label and date the containers for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
- To reheat from the refrigerator, pour the desired amount into a saucepan.
- Heat over medium-low until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- If reheating frozen tea, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw, then follow the stovetop instructions above.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon.
Can I use different types of apples for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?
Absolutely! While sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji work best, feel free to experiment with other apples based on your preference. Just ensure they are firm and not overly tart.
How long does Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this apple tea can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy it hot or cold whenever you like!
Is there a way to make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) sweeter?
Yes! You can adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or honey according to your taste preference. Just remember to stir well so that it dissolves completely.
Can I add other spices to my Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon?
Certainly! Feel free to get creative by adding spices like cloves or nutmeg if you want a more complex flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is not just a delightful drink; it’s a comforting hug in a cup! I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy its soothing warmth as much as I do. Whether you sip it on a chilly day or share it with loved ones, this special tea brings joy and health benefits. Happy brewing!
Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
Enjoy warming Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). Perfect for soothing colds, prepare this easy recipe today!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 grams) apples (Gala, Fuji, or other sweet varieties)
- 10 cups water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 inches fresh ginger
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 teaspoons black peppercorns
Instructions
- Chop the washed apples into quarters, removing the cores but keeping the skin.
- Combine all ingredients in either an Instant Pot (cook at high pressure for 18 minutes) or on the stove (bring to a boil and simmer for about 30 minutes).
- Once cooked, strain the mixture into a pitcher using a fine mesh sieve.
- Allow to cool before storing in an airtight container.
- Serve hot or cold as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
