Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

My Korean grandma’s home remedy for the common cold, Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha), is a comforting and soothing hot drink that warms you up. This easy-to-prepare beverage is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want to enjoy a cozy cup on a chilly day. The combination of sweet apples, zesty ginger, and aromatic cinnamon makes this tea not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal steps, making it easy for anyone to whip up a batch in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet apples, spicy ginger, and fragrant cinnamon creates an irresistible aroma and taste.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it hot for a comforting drink or cold for a refreshing treat; this tea adapts to your mood.
• Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants, ginger helps boost immunity while cinnamon adds anti-inflammatory properties.
• Family Tradition: This recipe is rooted in tradition, bringing warmth and nostalgia from my grandmother’s kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure that your preparation goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot or stock pot
• Fine mesh sieve
• Large spoon
• Pitcher or mason jar

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: Speeds up the cooking process significantly while infusing flavors effectively.
• Fine Mesh Sieve: Ensures a smooth tea by catching all solids, allowing you to enjoy the drink without any debris.
• Large Spoon: Ideal for pressing the apples to release their juices during the straining process.

Ingredients

For the Tea

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples: Sweet, firm varieties such as Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh are best.
• 10 cups water
• 2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar
• 4 inch (55 grams) Ginger: Preferably organic and sliced thinly.
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

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

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1. Wash the apples thoroughly under running water.
2. Quarter and core the apples; there’s no need to peel them.

Step 2: Cooking in an Instant Pot

1. In the Instant Pot, combine chopped apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, and 10 cups of water.
2. Secure the lid and set it to cook at high pressure for 18 minutes.
3. After cooking, manually release the steam before carefully removing the pot.

Step 3: Cooking on the Stove Top

1. In a stock pot, add apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, peppercorns, and 10 cups of water.
2. Cover and bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer covered for about 30 minutes until apples are soft.
4. Turn off heat but let it steep covered for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 4: Strain the Tea

1. Position a fine mesh sieve over a pitcher or mason jar.
2. Pour the apple mixture slowly into the sieve to catch any solid pieces.
3. Use the back of a large spoon to press down on the apple solids gently; this releases more juice.

Step 5: Cool Down

1. Allow the tea to cool completely at room temperature.
2. Once cooled, transfer it into a tightly sealed pitcher or glass jar for storage.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Tea

1. Pour your warm Korean Apple Tea into a cup.
2. Enjoy it hot for comfort or chilled for refreshment!

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

Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon, or Saegwa Cha, is a delightful drink that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this soothing beverage.

Warm and Cozy

• Serve the tea hot in a ceramic mug to enjoy its full aroma and warmth. This is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Iced Refreshment

• For a refreshing twist, chill the tea in the refrigerator and serve it over ice. This makes for a rejuvenating drink during warmer weather.

Sweeten It Up

• Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter taste. This can complement the natural flavors of the apples and spices nicely.

Garnish with Spices

• Enhance presentation by garnishing each cup with a cinnamon stick or a slice of fresh apple. This adds visual appeal and a subtle hint of flavor.

Pair with Snacks

• Enjoy your tea alongside light snacks like crackers or cheese. The warmth of the tea balances well with savory bites, making for a comforting snack time.

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

To make your Korean Apple Tea truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that will enhance the flavor and overall experience.

• Choose quality apples: Using sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji will elevate the natural sweetness of your tea.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of ginger and cinnamon to suit your taste preferences for a more personalized flavor.
• Use organic ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for organic apples and ginger to ensure you’re using high-quality produce without harmful pesticides.
• Let it steep: After cooking, allow the tea to steep for an additional 10 minutes off heat to deepen its flavors.
• Store properly: Keep leftover tea in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. It can last up to one week!
• Experiment with additions: Try adding other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique twists on this classic drink.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Korean Apple Tea pairs beautifully with various side dishes that can complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses such as Brie or creamy goat cheese works wonderfully alongside apple tea.
2. Savory Crackers: Serve assorted whole-grain crackers for a crunchy contrast that balances the drink’s sweetness.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits adds freshness and enhances the overall enjoyment of your tea.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted mixed nuts seasoned with cinnamon and sea salt provide a delightful crunch that pairs well with warm beverages.
5. Rice Cakes: Lightly sweetened rice cakes offer a chewy texture that complements the soothing qualities of Saegwa Cha.
6. Ginger Cookies: These cookies echo the ginger in your tea, creating a harmonious flavor experience that’s comforting and satisfying.
7. Dumplings: Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat can add heartiness to your snack time while enjoying apple tea.
8. Mini Sandwiches: Small sandwiches filled with cream cheese and cucumber make for an elegant pairing that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha), it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the flavor and overall experience.

• Using the wrong apples: Not all apples work well for this tea. Stick to sweet, firm varieties like Fuji or Gala for the best results.
• Skipping the ginger: Ginger adds warmth and spice. Omitting it will leave your tea lacking in flavor. Always include fresh ginger for authenticity.
• Not simmering long enough: Proper simmering is crucial for extracting flavors. Make sure to let it simmer covered for at least 30 minutes on the stovetop.
• Pouring too quickly: When transferring the tea, pour slowly to avoid spilling debris. Use a fine mesh sieve to catch any bits of apple or cinnamon.
• Overlooking storage: Improper storage can compromise taste. Always cool completely before sealing in an airtight container.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) in an airtight container.
• It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

• Freeze in portions using ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
• It can last up to 3 months when properly sealed.

Reheating Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer tea to an oven-safe pot, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe mug, cover loosely, and heat for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) that might help you enjoy this delightful beverage even more!

What are the health benefits of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon?

This tea is rich in antioxidants from apples, while ginger aids digestion and soothes inflammation. Cinnamon adds warmth and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Can I customize the sweetness of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon?

Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your preference.

Is it okay to use ground spices instead of whole ones?

While whole spices provide better flavor, you can use ground ginger and cinnamon if that’s what you have on hand. Adjust quantities accordingly.

How do I serve Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon?

You can serve it hot, cold, or at room temperature. It’s perfect for sipping on chilly days or as a refreshing drink any time!

Final Thoughts

Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is not just a comforting drink; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your personal taste or dietary needs. Whether enjoyed hot on a cold day or chilled during summer, this delightful tea brings warmth and joy to every sip. Give it a try today!