Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink that wraps you in warmth and comfort, you’ve come to the right place! My Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is a cherished recipe passed down from my grandma. This delightful beverage is not only soothing but also packed with health benefits. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or just need something to sip on during a chilly evening, this tea brings the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something comforting without much fuss. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings! Everyone will love the inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as the apples, ginger, and cinnamon work their magic together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you can make this delicious drink without any fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and warming flavors of this tea.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare a batch in advance and enjoy it hot or cold throughout the week.
• Health benefits: Loaded with antioxidants from apples and ginger, this tea is not just delicious; it’s good for you too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Korean Apple Tea are simple and wholesome, making it easy to gather what you need. You probably already have many of these items in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (Sweet, firm, preferably organic apples such as Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh)
• 10 cups water
• 2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar
• 4 inch (55 grams) Ginger (preferably organic)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

Variations

One of the best things about Korean Apple Tea is how flexible it can be. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste!

• Add more spice: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for an extra layer of flavor.
• Incorporate citrus: A splash of lemon juice can brighten up the tea and add a refreshing twist.
• Sweeten differently: If you’re looking for natural sweetness, try using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
• Try different fruits: Pears can be a lovely alternative if you’re in the mood for something slightly different.

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

Step 1: Chop Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter and core them—there’s no need to peel! Keeping the skin on adds great flavor and nutrients to your tea.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can prepare this delightful tea using either an Instant Pot or on the stove. For the Instant Pot: add chopped apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water to the pot. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 18 minutes. When it’s done, release the steam manually.

For stovetop preparation: combine all ingredients in a stock pot. Bring it to a boil over medium heat before reducing to a simmer. Cover and let it cook until the apples are soft—about 30 minutes—then steep off heat for another 10 minutes.

Step 3: Transfer to Pitcher

Once everything has cooked down beautifully, it’s time to strain your tea! Carefully pour it into a pitcher through a fine mesh sieve placed over the opening. This will catch any bits of apple or spice so that you have smooth tea to enjoy. Use the back of a spoon to gently press down on the apples—it helps release all those lovely juices!

Step 4: Cool Down

Let your tea cool completely at room temperature before transferring it into tightly sealed pitchers or jars for storage.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Finally, pour yourself a cup of this warm delight! You can savor it hot right away or chill some in the fridge for later enjoyment—it’s delicious at any temperature!

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is sure to become a favorite in your home as it has in mine. Enjoy every sip!

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

Creating the perfect cup of Korean Apple Tea is all about enhancing the flavors and ensuring a delightful experience. Here are some tips to help you brew it like a pro!

• Choose the right apples: Opting for sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji will bring out the natural sweetness in your tea, making it more enjoyable and flavorful.

• Fresh ginger is key: Using fresh ginger instead of powdered will impart a more vibrant flavor and aromatic quality, enhancing the overall warmth of the tea.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your personal preference! If you prefer a less sweet beverage, start with half the amount and adjust gradually.

• Let it steep longer: Allowing the tea to sit off heat for an additional 10 minutes after cooking helps deepen the flavors, allowing the ginger and cinnamon to infuse more fully into the apple base.

• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store your leftover tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week and makes for a quick warm-up drink any time!

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

Serving this delightful tea is just as enjoyable as preparing it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a cozy presentation that invites everyone to enjoy.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sticks: Adding a whole cinnamon stick to each cup not only enhances flavor but also adds an earthy aesthetic.
• Apple slices: Thinly slice a fresh apple and float a slice on top of each serving. This adds visual appeal while reinforcing the apple flavor.
• Honey drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over your finished tea can provide extra sweetness and a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Rice cakes (tteok): These chewy delights are perfect for pairing with your tea. They come in various flavors and textures, complementing the warmth of Saegwa Cha beautifully.
• Roasted nuts: A small bowl of lightly salted or spiced roasted nuts offers a crunchy contrast that balances out the smoothness of the tea.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can cleanse your palate between sips, highlighting the apple notes in your drink.
• Korean pancakes (jeon): These savory treats are filled with vegetables or seafood. Their crispy texture pairs well with warm drinks, making them an excellent accompaniment.

Enjoy serving this comforting Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon! It’s perfect for sharing during chilly days or simply indulging in some self-care.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a convenient choice for busy days or cozy evenings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It should remain fresh for up to one week.
• Make sure to cool the tea completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled apple tea into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly and label with the date.
• The tea can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply pour the desired amount into a pot and warm over low heat on the stove.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until hot.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful drink!

What are the health benefits of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon boasts numerous health benefits. Apples are rich in antioxidants, ginger aids digestion and boosts immunity, while cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties. Together, they create a soothing drink that can help ease colds and provide warmth during chilly days.

Can I adjust the sweetness in Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Absolutely! You can customize the sweetness by reducing or increasing the amount of brown sugar according to your taste. Alternatively, you can use honey or maple syrup as sweeteners if you prefer.

How long does Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this tea will stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)! It’s not just a drink; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something comforting, this recipe is special because it brings together simple ingredients that nourish both body and soul. Enjoy every sip, share it with loved ones, and let this delightful tea brighten your day!