Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink that not only warms your heart but also uplifts your spirits, then you’ve come to the right place! My Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is like a hug in a cup. This delightful beverage has been a cherished remedy passed down through generations in my family. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings or when you feel a bit under the weather. With its soothing blend of apples, ginger, and cinnamon, this tea is not just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits!

Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting a family gathering, this comforting drink will surely bring smiles all around. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Let’s dive into why you’ll love this simple yet impressive recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just about 10 minutes of prep time, you can start brewing this delightful tea!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and spicy flavors of this tea. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Health benefits: Ginger and cinnamon are known for their warming properties and immune-boosting benefits.
• Make-ahead convenience: This tea stores well, so you can enjoy it hot or cold throughout the week!
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it hot on chilly days or as a refreshing iced drink when the weather warms up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that warm, inviting flavor profile that makes Korean Apple Tea so special.

• 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 is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

• Add citrus zest: A touch of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the drink and add a refreshing twist.
• Try different sweeteners: If you prefer honey or maple syrup over brown sugar, feel free to swap them in!
• Infuse with herbs: Adding fresh mint leaves during steeping can provide a lovely aromatic layer to the tea.
• Adjust spice levels: If you enjoy more heat, consider adding more ginger or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter and core them; there’s no need to peel! Keeping the skin adds extra nutrients and flavor. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully in your tea.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You have two great options here: using an Instant Pot or going traditional on the stovetop. Both methods will yield delicious results. For Instant Pot lovers, combine the chopped apples with sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water in the pot. Lock it in place and set it for 18 minutes at high pressure. If you prefer stovetop cooking, simmer everything together until the apples are soft – about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Strain Your Tea

Once cooked, carefully transfer your apple mixture into a pitcher using a fine mesh sieve to catch any solids. This step keeps your tea smooth and enjoyable while allowing all those wonderful flavors to shine through. Don’t forget to press down on those soft apple pieces with a spoon; they’re bursting with juice!

Step 4: Cool Down

Let your tea cool completely at room temperature before storing it in sealed containers. Cooling it properly ensures that it stays fresh longer!

Step 5: Enjoy!

Now comes the best part – enjoying your homemade Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon! Pour yourself a cup warm or let it chill for a refreshing summer drink. No matter how you serve it, each sip will remind you of homey comfort.

So there you have it! A simple guide to making Korean Apple Tea that’s sure to warm hearts and homes alike. Cheers!

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

Making Korean Apple Tea is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your tea turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh apples, ginger, and spices will yield the best flavors. Opt for organic produce when possible to enhance the natural sweetness and aroma of your tea.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: The amount of brown sugar can be modified based on your preference. Start with less sugar and add more if you prefer a sweeter flavor, allowing you to customize it just for you.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like cloves or star anise for an extra layer of flavor. This not only brings variety but also offers additional health benefits from the spices.

• Strain thoroughly: Make sure to strain the tea well before serving. This will give you a smoother drink without any chunky bits from the apples or peppercorns, making it more enjoyable.

• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store the tea in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to five days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated!

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

Serving this warm, comforting drink is all about presentation! Here are a few ideas to make your Korean Apple Tea even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprig of mint or basil not only looks beautiful but adds a refreshing aroma that complements the tea’s flavors.
• Apple slices: Thinly sliced apples can be added directly to the cup or used as a garnish on the rim. They enhance the visual appeal and reinforce the apple flavor.

Side Dishes

• Rice cakes (tteok): Soft and chewy rice cakes are a traditional accompaniment that balances out the warmth of the tea. They can be sweetened or savory, depending on your preference.
• Vegetable dumplings: Lightly steamed veggie dumplings provide a delightful texture contrast and complement the comforting nature of apple tea.
• Savory pancakes (jeon): These crispy pancakes made from vegetables are perfect for dipping into soy sauce and pair wonderfully with the sweet notes of Saegwa Cha.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a light side dish that enhances the overall experience while keeping things healthy.

Enjoy serving your Korean Apple Tea with these thoughtful touches, making each sip even more special!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is not only a delightful drink but also a great option for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tea to cool completely before storing.
• Pour into airtight containers or jars.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing

• Let the tea cool entirely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For reheating from the refrigerator, pour into a saucepan and warm over low heat until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat in a saucepan, or use a microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this cozy drink!

What is Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is a warm beverage made from apples, ginger, cinnamon, and black peppercorns. It’s known for its comforting qualities and health benefits, especially during cold weather.

How can I sweeten my Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or using honey or maple syrup as alternatives. Start with small amounts and taste until you reach your desired sweetness.

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 you enjoy. Each type will impart its unique flavor to the tea.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) warms your heart just as it did for me growing up! It’s not just a drink; it’s a hug in a cup that brings comfort during chilly days. I encourage you to try making this delicious recipe at home; you’ll find it incredibly rewarding. Happy sipping!