Yogi Tea
Originally published: February 13, 2020
Six ingredients are all you need to make the classic yogi tea. Since they discontinued the pre-made version of this tea at my local store, I decided to make it myself. The experience is so wonderfully rewarding, that making this recipe at home, with fresh ingredients, has now found a part in my sadhana (daily practice).
What you will need:
Around 20 whole black peppercorns (or 1/2 tsp)
Around 15 cloves (or 1/2 tsp)
Around 20 cardamom pods (or 1 + 1/2 tsp), split them open carefully with the back of a knife
3 cinnamon sticks
8 pieces of sliced ginger (you can leave the peel on)
1 teaspoon of black tea
Steps:
Boil water in a large saucepan (I use about 8-10 cups, give or take).
Add in all ingredients as the water is at a rolling boil, holding back on the black tea leaves.
After 5 minutes or so, add in the black tea. Lower the heat and simmer for 30 minutes. (You can simmer for longer, 1-2 hours if desired. Just note that the longer you boil, the stronger the caffeine from the black tea.)
Strain the tea and enjoy!
Tips:
You can use black tea in a tea bag if you do not have loose leaf.
The longer you boil, the stronger the flavour and caffeine content.
These ratios are what has tasted good to me, but it does not have to be super precise. You can play with the amount of cinnamon and ginger, and if you do not have exactly 20 peppercorns, no one is going to notice!
Make sure you split open the cardamom pods in order to get the full effect of the spice.
Yogi tea can be enjoyed hot or cold.
I like my tea as is, but feel free to sweeten with honey and if you're into adding milk/nut milk, go for it.
Be mindful when you drink your tea. It is really comforting to take a moment and pause before sipping. Set an intention while making the tea or while drinking it. Really be present and enjoy your delicious creation.
Originally brought to yoga classes by Yogi Bhajan in the 1960s, this tea was served as something to help wind down the practice. Whenever you choose to drink your tea, remember to savour the aroma and flavour. As Thich Nhat Hanh said, "The tea contains the whole universe."
