📝 About This Recipe
Transport yourself to the sun-drenched hillsides of the Mediterranean with this aromatic, earthy sage tea. Known for centuries as a 'holy herb,' sage offers a sophisticated flavor profile that balances savory notes with a subtle, peppery finish. This recipe elevates the humble infusion by layering in bright citrus and warming spices, creating a soothing beverage that is as medicinal as it is delicious.
🥗 Ingredients
The Infusion Base
- 12-15 pieces Fresh Sage Leaves (rinsed and lightly bruised to release oils)
- 2.5 cups Filtered Water (cold start for better flavor extraction)
- 1 piece Ceylon Cinnamon Stick (approximately 3 inches long)
Citrus & Spice Aromatics
- 1/2 inch Fresh Ginger (peeled and thinly sliced into coins)
- 2 strips Lemon Zest (removed with a vegetable peeler, avoid the white pith)
- 2 pieces Whole Cloves (optional, for deep warmth)
Sweetener & Finishing Touches
- 1-2 tablespoons Raw Wildflower Honey (to taste; adds floral complexity)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 pieces Fresh Sage Sprigs (for garnish)
- 2 pieces Thin Lemon Slices (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
Begin by thoroughly rinsing your fresh sage leaves under cold running water to remove any garden grit, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
-
2
Gently slap the sage leaves between your palms or press them lightly with the back of a spoon; this 'bruising' technique breaks the cell walls and releases the essential oils.
-
3
In a small stainless steel or glass saucepan, combine the 2.5 cups of filtered water with the sliced ginger, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves.
-
4
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the water to a gentle, rolling boil.
-
5
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the spices for about 3-4 minutes to create a warm, aromatic base.
-
6
Add the bruised sage leaves and the lemon zest strips to the simmering water.
-
7
Immediately turn off the heat. It is crucial not to boil the sage leaves for too long, as high heat for extended periods can make the tea unpleasantly bitter.
-
8
Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to trap the volatile oils and let the tea steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
-
9
While the tea steeps, warm your serving mugs by rinsing them with hot water; this ensures your tea stays at the perfect temperature longer.
-
10
After steeping, remove the lid and use a fine-mesh strainer to pour the tea into a glass teapot or directly into your warmed mugs.
-
11
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and the raw wildflower honey until completely dissolved.
-
12
Garnish each mug with a fresh sprig of sage and a thin lemon slice for a beautiful, professional presentation.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use fresh sage whenever possible; dried sage is much more potent and can quickly become medicinal or soapy if overused. If using dried sage, reduce the quantity to 1 teaspoon per cup and decrease steeping time to 3 minutes. Avoid using boiling water directly on the leaves; cooling the water slightly to around 190°F (88°C) preserves the delicate herbal notes. For a vegan version, substitute the honey with organic agave nectar or a high-quality maple syrup. If you prefer a stronger savory profile, omit the cinnamon and cloves and add a small sprig of fresh thyme.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a slice of toasted sourdough topped with ricotta and a drizzle of honey. Serve alongside lemon shortbread cookies to complement the citrus notes. Enjoy as a digestive aid after a heavy meal featuring roasted meats or root vegetables. Excellent served iced: double the recipe, let it cool completely, and pour over large ice cubes with extra lemon. Pair with a small bowl of salted Marcona almonds for a classic Mediterranean snack.