Do you want to warm up this holiday season? Try this easy seasonal cranberry ginger tisane*.
Winter Wonderland Tea Recipe (AKA Cranberry Ginger Tisane)
1/4 cup fresh cranberries
1 inch of fresh ginger root
4 cups boiling water
Optional: 1/2 cinnamon stick and/or honey to taste
First, wash and peel the ginger root. Next, slice into matchsticks. Place into a quart canning jar or tea pot. Add the cranberries and cinnamon, if using. Pour the boiling water over the ingredients. Finally, cover and allow to steep for at least 10 minutes. The cranberries will likely make a little popping sound– don’t be startled!
I don’t usually sweeten with honey, but can understand why some people may prefer to add a little.
Health Benefits of Cranberry and Ginger
It’s a lovely, enjoyable drink simply from a gourmet perspective. However, ginger and cranberry also are both known for potent phytochemicals. To get the most from the drink, eat a few of the tart cranberries with the tea.
Ginger is most well-known for being a safe anti-nausea option. It’s often used for various forms of GI upset, and approved as a safe anti-emetic during pregnancy. There are a few studies that suggest it may be useful as an anti-inflammatory, for arthritis-related pain.
Cranberries are most well-known for preventing urinary tract infections. However, UTIs need a strong dose– capsules are more likely to help than a beverage like this.
Most people don’t know that cranberries are also a great source of antioxidants. They contain many useful compounds– from well known vitamins like vitamin C to lesser known proanthocyanidins.
The greatest value of drinking these tisanes can be the displacement factor. Sometimes, people discover they like drinks like this and start drinking them instead of drinks like soda.
Finally, when it comes to feeling satisfied with eating, experiencing different flavors can help. If you tend to pick sweet flavors, trying flavors like this cranberry ginger tisane can help you explore a wider range of sensory experiences. Tart and spicy, together!
Learn more about experiencing different flavors at the next Appreciating Taste Workshop. Check out the workshop schedule!
*What’s a tisane? Read more about teas (including a brief infographic about processing).
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