Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a deliciously warming drink that feels like a hug in a cup, let me introduce you to my cherished recipe for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). This tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a comforting remedy passed down from my Korean grandma, perfect for those chilly evenings or when you need a little extra warmth. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting family gatherings, this soothing drink will always bring smiles and comfort.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the fragrant blend of apples, ginger, and cinnamon. It’s an easy-to-make treat that fills your home with delightful aromas while offering health benefits. Trust me; once you make this tea, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Health Boosting: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, this tea helps soothe colds and boosts your immune system.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this comforting drink in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors of this lovely tea.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and store it for quick servings throughout the week.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it hot, cold, or at room temperature—it’s delicious any way you sip it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) lies in its wholesome ingredients. You won’t need anything fancy—just fresh produce and pantry staples to create this delightful drink.

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (sweet, firm varieties like Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh work best)
• 10 cups water
• 2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar
• 4 inch (55 grams) ginger (preferably organic)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or ingredients to make it your own.

• Add citrus: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice or add orange slices for a zesty twist.
• Sweeten differently: Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup to suit your taste preferences.
• Include herbs: Toss in some fresh mint leaves during the steeping process for an herbal note.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or cloves for an even richer flavor profile.

How to Make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter and core them without peeling; the skin adds flavor and nutrients! Chopping them into pieces allows their natural sweetness to infuse into the tea.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can make this tea using either an Instant Pot or on the stove:

Instant Pot Directions:

Add all the prepared ingredients—apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns—into the cooking pot along with 10 cups of water. Lock the lid in place and cook at high pressure for 18 minutes. When the timer goes off, carefully release the steam manually. Once done, set aside to cool briefly.

Stove Top Directions:

In a large stock pot, combine the same ingredients as above. Cover it up and bring everything to a boil over medium heat. Then lower the heat and let it simmer covered until the apples are soft—about 30 minutes should do. Off the heat, allow it to steep covered for another 10 minutes to deepen those flavors.

Step 3: Strain Your Tea

Grab a pitcher or mason jar ready on your counter. Place a fine mesh sieve over the opening of your container. Pour the apple tea slowly into the pitcher while pressing down gently on the softened apples with a spoon to extract all that delicious juice. Be careful not to let any bits fall through!

Step 4: Cool Down

Let your tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it tightly in your storage container. This way, you can preserve its delightful flavor!

Step 5: Enjoy!

When you’re ready to enjoy Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha), simply pour yourself a cup! It’s delightful served hot but also refreshing when chilled or at room temperature. Sip slowly and savor every comforting drop!

Pro Tips for Making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Making this delightful tea at home is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your experience even further!

• Choose the right apples: Selecting sweet and firm varieties like Fuji or Gala ensures that your tea has the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. Organic apples are recommended as they contain fewer pesticides.

• Slice ginger thinly: Thin slices release more flavor into the tea while cooking. This allows the warm, spicy notes of ginger to infuse beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

• Use fresh spices: Opt for fresh cinnamon sticks and whole black peppercorns instead of ground spices. Whole spices give a more robust flavor and aroma to the tea compared to their ground counterparts.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: The amount of brown sugar can be modified according to your preference. Feel free to start with less and add more if you like it sweeter!

• Experiment with steeping time: If you prefer a stronger flavor, let the tea steep longer after cooking. Just keep it covered off the heat for an additional 10-15 minutes to extract more flavors from the ingredients.

How to Serve Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Serving Korean Apple Tea is not just about pouring it into cups; it’s also about creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances your enjoyment of this comforting drink. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful beverage!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Stick: Adding a cinnamon stick to each cup not only makes for an attractive presentation but also intensifies the natural spice flavors as it sits.

• Apple Slices: Thinly slice a few extra apples and float them on top of your tea for a beautiful touch that adds freshness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Honeyed Toast: Simple toast spread with honey provides a lovely sweetness that complements the apple tea perfectly. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a wonderful snack.

• Sesame Seed Cookies: These crunchy, nutty cookies pair wonderfully with the warmth of the tea, offering an added texture contrast that elevates your tasting experience.

• Steamed Sweet Potatoes: Soft, sweet potatoes make a nutritious side that is both filling and pairs nicely with the flavors in the apple tea. Their natural sweetness harmonizes well with this drink.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can add a light touch to your meal. The vibrant colors will brighten up your table and provide a delightful contrast in flavors.

Enjoying Korean Apple Tea with these thoughtful serving suggestions will surely warm your heart!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting drink whenever you want. Whether you make a big batch for the week or store some for later, it’s super convenient!

Storing Leftovers

• Pour the cooled tea into an airtight pitcher or glass jar.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• If you notice any sediment settling at the bottom, simply give it a gentle stir before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the tea to cool completely before freezing.
• Pour the tea into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for smaller portions.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• For thawed tea, pour it into a saucepan and heat gently over low heat until warm.
• If using the microwave, heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until hot.
• Enjoy it warm, and feel free to add fresh slices of apple or extra spices if desired!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha).

Can I use different types of apples for Saegwa Cha?

Yes! While sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji are recommended, feel free to experiment with your favorite apples. Just remember that sweeter apples will yield a more flavorful tea!

How can I customize my Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar, or try incorporating other spices like nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth. Enjoy crafting your unique blend!

Is Korean Apple Tea good for colds?

Absolutely! The combination of ginger and cinnamon in this tea is known for its soothing properties, making it an excellent home remedy during cold season.

How long does Korean Apple Tea last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Can I serve this tea cold?

Yes! This tea is delicious served hot, but it’s also refreshing when chilled. Pour it over ice for a delightful summer beverage!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). It’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Whether you’re sipping it alone or sharing it with loved ones on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and happiness. Enjoy every cup!