Flu/Cold Tea Bombs

Introduction

Flu/Cold Tea Bombs are a game-changer in our household, especially during flu season. After whipping up a batch, I quickly realized how convenient they are for quick relief. With the perfect balance of spicy and soothing ingredients, this recipe is potent, and each tea bomb is prepped and ready to dissolve in hot water when needed. My family found it effective and even enjoyed the warming “kick” from the ginger and cayenne, though I’d suggest adjusting the cayenne if you prefer a milder version.

**Ingredients**

– 2 whole lemons, peeled

– 2 large bunches of fresh ginger

– 1 whole head of garlic

– 2 tablespoons turmeric

– 1 tablespoon black pepper

– 1 tablespoon cinnamon

– 1 ½ tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)

– ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar (ACV)

– 1 ½ tablespoons honey

– 3 cups water

**Instructions**

1. **Prepare Ingredients**: Start by peeling the lemons and chopping the ginger into smaller pieces for easier blending.

2. **Blend**: Add all ingredients—lemons, ginger, garlic, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, cayenne, ACV, honey, and water—into a blender. Blend until smooth.

3. **Strain**: Using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, strain the mixture into a bowl to remove any pulp or sediment.

4. **Freeze**: Pour the strained liquid into a silicone muffin tray, filling each cavity about 1/8 cup full. Freeze until solid.

5. **Store**: Once frozen, transfer the tea bombs to a freezer-safe bag or container for long-term storage.

6. **To Use**: Drop a frozen tea bomb into a cup of hot water, let it dissolve, and enjoy!

**Nutrition Facts**

– **Servings**: 12 tea bombs

– **Calories per serving**: Approximately 15 calories

**Preparation Time**

– Prep Time: 10 minutes

– Blend & Strain: 5 minutes

– Freeze Time: 4-6 hours

– Total Time: 4-6 hours, 15 minutes (mostly inactive freezing time)

**How to Serve**

– **Warm**: Dissolve a tea bomb in a cup of hot water and stir well before drinking.

– **Cold**: Let the tea bomb thaw slightly, then blend with cold water and ice for a refreshing, immune-boosting drink.

– **With Honey**: Add extra honey for sweetness, if desired.

– **With Lemon**: Garnish with a fresh lemon slice for extra zest.

– **With Mint Leaves**: Add fresh mint leaves for a cooling contrast to the warmth of the ginger and cayenne.

**Additional Tips**

1. **Choose Fresh Ingredients**: Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor and health benefits.

2. **Adjust Spice Level**: Reduce or increase the cayenne pepper to adjust the spiciness.

3. **Use Cheesecloth for Straining**: A cheesecloth will yield a smoother liquid with less sediment.

4. **Sweeten to Taste**: Add more honey for a sweeter taste, especially if the mixture is too strong.

5. **Silicone Trays for Easy Release**: Using silicone molds makes it easier to remove the frozen tea bombs.

**Recipe Variations**

– **Citrus Twist**: Add an orange or extra lemon for additional citrus flavor.

– **Herbal Boost**: Blend in a few fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor and health benefits.

– **Ginger-Free**: For a milder tea, reduce or omit ginger and substitute with chamomile tea.

– **Extra Honey**: Increase the honey for a sweeter drink, especially helpful if you’re serving kids.

– **Apple Cider**: Replace water with apple cider for a sweeter, fall-inspired taste.

**Serving Suggestions**

– **Morning Boost**: Start your day with a hot cup of this tea to kickstart your immune system.

– **Afternoon Refreshment**: Enjoy a cold version of the tea bomb in the afternoon for a refreshing pick-me-up.

– **Before Bed**: Have a warm tea bomb before bedtime to help soothe the throat and relax.

– **On-the-Go**: Store a tea bomb in a thermos with hot water for a portable health boost.

– **Garnish with Fresh Herbs**: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary for an aromatic experience.

**Freezing and Storage**

– **Freezing**: Keep the frozen tea bombs in a freezer-safe container or bag. They last up to 3 months in the freezer.

– **Storage**: Store in a single layer, or place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

– **Quick Thawing**: Let a tea bomb sit at room temperature for 5 minutes if you want a faster dissolution in hot water.

– **Individual Packaging**: Consider wrapping each bomb in plastic wrap for grab-and-go convenience.

– **Labeling**: Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

**FAQ**

1. **Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh?**

Yes, but fresh ginger provides a more potent flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of ground ginger per tablespoon of fresh.

2. **Is it okay to leave out the cayenne pepper?**

Absolutely, if you’re sensitive to spice or prefer a milder tea.

3. **Can I store the mixture in the fridge instead of freezing it?**

Yes, but it’s best used within 3-5 days if refrigerated.

4. **Can I use this recipe as a daily drink?**

It’s safe to enjoy occasionally, but consult a doctor if you plan to drink it daily, as the ingredients are potent.

5. **How can I make this kid-friendly?**

Reduce the cayenne and ginger, and add more honey for a sweeter, gentler version.

6. **Does the garlic flavor get too strong?**

The garlic adds subtle warmth, but if it’s too strong, reduce it to half a clove.

7. **What’s the best way to strain the tea?**

A cheesecloth will give the smoothest result, filtering out most sediment.

8. **Can I use dried turmeric?**

Yes, substitute 1 teaspoon of dried turmeric for each tablespoon of fresh turmeric.

9. **Will this help with a sore throat?**

Yes, the honey and ginger are soothing for sore throats, making this tea ideal for cold relief.

10. **Can I reheat the tea after making it?**

Yes, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove if it cools too quickly.

**Conclusion**

Flu/Cold Tea Bombs are a powerful, convenient remedy to have on hand during the colder months. Packed with immune-boosting ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and lemon, these tea bombs are not only easy to make but also versatile in serving. Whether you prefer it warm to soothe a sore throat or chilled for a refreshing drink, this recipe provides a homemade, natural way to combat seasonal colds and flu.

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