Maghrebi Mint Tea
Oct 23rd, 2020
Maghrebi mint tea is one beverage Morocco is known for because of its refreshing taste, health benefits and deep-rooted traditions. The process of preparation (atai), is usually done in front of others, as drinking signifies hospitality and friendship. Because of its simple flavour, the mint tea can be drunk at any time of the day with both sweet and savoury food.
Recipe
Ingredients
1 ounce of fresh mint
1 teaspoon of loose gunpowder tea
5 cups of boiling water
3 tablespoons of sugar
Method:
In a teapot, add gunpowder tea and 1 cup of the boiled water. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Stir it and discard the water to rinse the tea.
Add the rest of the water (4 cups) in and let it steep for 2 minutes.
Mix the sugar and the mint in, leaving some for decoration, and let it steep for 3-4 minutes.
Serve in a heatproof glass and add mint leaves for decoration.
The most important ingredient is the gunpowder tea from the Zhejiang Province of China, giving the Maghrebi tea its unique flavour. During the winter, mint can be substituted for wormwood leaves (chiba) or lemon verbena (louiza) giving it a more bitter, sour but warmer feel. When pouring out of the teapot, the spout should be 12cm above the cup so foam can be formed on top.
Health benefits of the tea
Relieves respiratory problems
Boost immune system
Soothes mind and nerves
Good Oral Health
Clear your skin
Links:
https://www.morocco.com/blog/moroccos-tea-drinking-tradition/
http://www.mymoroccanfood.com/home/2015/4/27/moroccan-mint-tea
https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/moroccan-mint-tea-238428