Southeast Asian
Lemongrass Ginger Zing Tea
A bright, zesty caffeine-free tea of lemongrass and ginger with a squeeze of lemon — a Southeast Asian favorite that's both refreshing and gently warming.
Historical Background
Lemongrass and ginger are pillars of Southeast Asian and Thai kitchens, steeped together as a refreshing, warming household tea. The combination traveled globally as both a café favorite and a folk digestive and cold-season cup.
Traditional purpose: Refreshing digestive and warming cup
Preparation
- 1
Bruise and slice 2 lemongrass stalks; slice fresh ginger.
- 2
Place lemongrass and ginger in a teapot or saucepan.
- 3
Pour 8 oz boiling water over and steep 5–8 minutes (or simmer 3 minutes for stronger flavor).
- 4
Strain, add lemon juice and honey to taste, and serve hot or iced.
Serving: Serve hot for cold season or iced with extra lemon in summer.
Substitutions
- Add a pinch of mint
- Add a slice of chili for heat
Storage
Use fresh for best flavor; dried lemongrass keeps airtight up to a year.
Safety Notices
Generally very safe; ginger may interact with anticoagulants and antidiabetic drugs; lemongrass may cause rare allergic reactions. Educational use only — not medical advice.