Mulberry Iced Tea
This refreshing drink is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and benefits that make it a perfect companion for warm days or anytime you want a tasty, healthy pick-me-up.
Equipment
- Saucepan or Pot
- Fine Mesh Strainer or Sieve
- Pitcher or large jar
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Lemon Juicer (optional)
- Stirring Spoon
- Glasses and Ice Cube Tray
Ingredients
For the Mulberry Iced Tea
- 1/2 cup dried mulberries or 1 cup fresh mulberries
- 4 cups water
- 2 black or green tea bags optional, for added depth
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon optional
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mulberries and Water
- Pour 4 cups of water into a saucepan or pot.
- Add the dried or fresh mulberries to the water.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Pro tip: Keep an eye on the pot so it doesn’t boil over — once it starts bubbling, reduce to a simmer.
Step 2: Steep the Mulberries and Tea
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let the mulberries simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps extract their sweet flavor and nutrients.
- If using tea bags, add them to the pot during the last 3-5 minutes of simmering.
- Pro tip: Don’t steep the tea bags too long to avoid bitterness—3 to 5 minutes is just right.
Step 3: Strain the Tea
- Remove the pot from heat.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a large pitcher or heatproof bowl.
- Slowly pour the mulberry mixture through the strainer to separate the tea from the solids.
- Use the back of a spoon to gently press the mulberries to extract more flavor.
Step 4: Sweeten and Add Lemon
- While the tea is still warm, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup, adjusting to your preferred sweetness.
- Add the juice of one lemon for a bright, tangy note. Stir well.
- Pro tip: Stir well to fully dissolve the honey or syrup — warm tea makes it easier.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Let the tea cool to room temperature, then transfer the pitcher to the fridge for at least 1-2 hours.
- When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the chilled mulberry iced tea over the ice.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired for an extra refreshing touch.
- Pro tip: For an extra fruity kick, add a few fresh mulberries or a slice of lemon to each glass.
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 60–70 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 12g (mostly from honey and mulberries)
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Fat: 0g
- Vitamin C: 15–20% DV
- Iron: 5–6% DV
- Antioxidants: High (due to mulberries and optional tea)