When the weather gets cold, I turn on the kettle. Herbal tea keeps me warm all day when I’m sitting at my desk working. I don’t bother with boxes of pre-made tea in individual bags; instead I throw in whatever herbs, spices, or dried fruits I have around. I figure there’s no need to waste all that packaging, and it’s easier on my wallet, too.

For this month’s issue of Readymade, I wrote down three of my favorite homemade herbal tea combinations, but the possibilities are endless, and I use whatever is available. In summer, I turn to fresh herbs like mint, lemon verbena, and lemon balm. In winter, I choose dried fruits and spices like orange rind, apples, and cinnamon, to warm my chilly bones.

Below are some more do-it-yourself tea ideas. Any of them can be brightened up with a little honey, or enjoyed plain. Try out one of these recipes, or let them inspire you to explore your pantry and whip up some tasty brews with whatever ingredients you have on hand. Dried spices and fruits look pretty in glass jars; dressed up with a colorful ribbon and brewing instructions, they make original, inexpensive holiday gifts.

Star Anise, Allspice, and Orange

In a small pot, combine 2 whole star anise, 2 dried organic orange peels, and 5 allspice berries. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and steep for 5 minutes, covered. Strain and drink.

Pomegranate

Boil 2 cups of water and stir in 2 teaspoons of pomegranate syrup (available at many natural grocery stores and ethnic food stores) or 2 tablespoons of pomegranate juice.

Apple and Cinnamon

In a small pot, combine ½ cup dried apples and 1 cinnamon stick. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and steep for 5 minutes, covered. Pour the tea into a mug and drink, and then munch on the soft, warm apple slices at the bottom! You can reuse the cinnamon stick several times.

Ginger, Thyme, Cayenne, Lemon

Combine 1 teaspoon dried ginger and 1 teaspoon thyme in a small pot. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and steep for 5 minutes, covered. Strain the tea into a mug and add a pinch of cayenne powder and a dash of fresh lemon juice. This brew will help boost immunity in cold and flu season.


What are some of your favorite combinations?


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