Winter melon, a large, mild-flavored gourd, is more than just a culinary curiosity; it’s a refreshing and potentially health-boosting ingredient perfect for warmer weather, or for those seeking a soothing beverage during colder months. Its subtle sweetness and hydrating properties make it an ideal base for a revitalizing tea, offering a delicious alternative to sugary drinks. This naturally sweet tea is surprisingly easy to make, providing a perfect balance of flavor and refreshment. Beyond its taste, winter melon tea is often associated with various health benefits, though further research is always encouraged.
This refreshing beverage is incredibly versatile, adaptable to individual preferences with the addition of herbs, fruits, or sweeteners. Ready to discover the simple steps to crafting your own delicious winter melon tea? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process outlined below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Stove
- Cloth bag
- Mold
- Bottles
Ingredients
- Winter Melon: 1.5 kg
- La Han Fruit: 20g
- Red Dates
- Sugar Cane: 3 pieces
- Pandan Leaves: 80g
- Brown Sugar: 120g
- Rock Sugar: 100g
- Longan Pulp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Winter Melon
- Peel and cut off the inside of old winter melons to prevent sourness. Cut into small pieces.
- In a pot, mix winter melon with brown sugar and rock sugar. (Use all rock sugar if you don't have brown sugar).
- Cook the winter melon with sugar on low heat until it turns purple.
Step 2. Simmer and Infuse
- Mix pre-bought grass jelly powder with water until dissolved. Cook in boiling water until dissolved evenly (about 20 minutes). Add banana oil and mix well. Pour into a mold.
- Crush the remaining sugarcane pieces (or substitute with longan). Cut red apple and monk fruit into small pieces.
- After an hour of cooking, add sugarcane, monk fruit, and red apple to the winter melon mixture. Add 3 liters of water.
- Cook on low heat for another 30 minutes. Skim off any foam. Remove pandan leaves and sugarcane residue. Let it cool.
Step 3. Strain and Combine
- Soak chia seeds in hot water to expand. (Basil seeds can be used as an alternative).
- Filter the cooled winter melon mixture through a cloth bag to remove solids.
- Combine the filtered liquid with the squeezed juice from the winter melon, red apples and monk fruit.
Step 4. Serve and Refrigerate
- Divide the tea into bottles, adding chia seeds and grass jelly to each serving. Refrigerate.
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Choose old winter melons for a more delicious tea; they have a white powder coating when fresh.
- Using more brown sugar results in a sweeter, more fragrant winter melon soup.
- Marinating the winter melon with sugar enhances its fragrance.
- The ratio of water in the pot to the water mixed with the grass jelly should always be 1:2 liters.
- The winter melon should be chewy, not mushy.
- The tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use canned winter melon instead of fresh?
Yes, canned winter melon works well, but the flavor might be slightly less intense. Make sure to drain it well before using.
2. How long can I store leftover winter melon tea?
Store leftover tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best enjoyed fresh, though.
Enjoy your homemade refreshing winter melon tea! This simple recipe allows for easy customization, so feel free to experiment with different additions to create your perfect cup. Whether you're seeking a healthy hydration boost or a delicious treat, this recipe delivers both.