Flu/Cold Tea Bombs Recipe

Introduction

When the seasons change and the flu and cold bugs start making their rounds, I find myself looking for natural remedies to boost my family’s immune systems. Recently, I discovered the idea of Flu/Cold Tea Bombs, and I decided to give it a try. The process was surprisingly simple, and the results were incredibly rewarding! After preparing a big batch and freezing them, I was amazed at how easy it was to just drop one into hot water whenever someone in the house was feeling under the weather. The flavors are bold, and the health benefits are undeniable. My family loved the spicy kick of the ginger and cayenne, and I found comfort in knowing I had a healthy option on hand. Here’s how you can make your own!

Ingredients

• 2 whole lemons (peeled)
• 2 large bunches of fresh ginger
• 1 whole head of garlic
• 2 tablespoons of turmeric
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
• 1 ½ tablespoons of cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
• ½ tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (ACV)
• 1 ½ tablespoons of honey (to taste)
• 3 cups of water

Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by peeling the lemons and gathering all your ingredients. Fresh ginger can be a bit tough to peel, so a spoon works well for scraping off the skin.
2. Blend: In a blender, combine the peeled lemons, fresh ginger, whole garlic head, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, apple cider vinegar, honey, and water. Blend until smooth.
3. Strain: Using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, strain the mixture into a bowl or pitcher. This will remove the pulp and leave you with a smooth liquid. (Note: using cheesecloth will yield a clearer result.)
4. Freeze: Pour the strained liquid into a silicone muffin tray. Each portion should be about 1/8 cup. Freeze until solid.
5. Store: Once frozen, pop the tea bombs out of the tray and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag for easy access later.
6. Enjoy: When you or a family member feels a cold coming on, simply drop one of the tea bombs into a mug of hot water, stir, and enjoy! Adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste preferences.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 tea bomb
• Calories: Approximately 40 kcal
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus freezing time)

How to Serve

• Drop a tea bomb into a mug of hot water.
• Stir well to dissolve.
• Taste and adjust sweetness with additional honey if desired.
• Enjoy while hot!

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will yield the best flavor and health benefits.
2. Adjust Spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preferences—reduce cayenne for a milder tea.
3. Experiment with Sweetness: The honey can be adjusted or substituted with maple syrup for a vegan option.
4. Cheesecloth for Straining: Next time, consider using cheesecloth for a clearer liquid.
5. Add More Herbs: Consider adding herbs like mint or thyme for additional flavor and health benefits.

Recipe Variations

• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
• Citrus Variation: Substitute or mix in oranges or grapefruits for a different citrus flavor.
• Spiced Variations: Try adding cloves or cardamom for an aromatic touch.
• Honey Alternatives: Use agave syrup or stevia for a sugar-free version.
• Cold Brew: Instead of hot water, mix the bomb into iced water for a refreshing drink.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a slice of lemon or a cinnamon stick for extra flair.
• Pair with honey sticks or a side of ginger cookies for a cozy treat.
• Offer a tea bomb along with a healthy snack like nuts or fruit when feeling under the weather.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep the tea bombs in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• Duration: They can be stored for up to 6 months in the freezer.
• Thawing: No need to thaw; just drop into hot water directly from the freezer.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use powdered spices instead of fresh?

• Yes, but fresh ingredients will provide better flavor and health benefits.

1. How spicy is it with the cayenne pepper?

• It provides a moderate kick; feel free to adjust according to your heat preference.

1. Can I make these tea bombs in advance?

• Absolutely! They freeze well for several months.

1. What is the purpose of the apple cider vinegar?

• ACV has numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting immunity.

1. Can I drink this if I’m pregnant?

• It’s best to consult your healthcare provider, especially regarding high amounts of ginger.

1. What if I don’t like ginger?

• You can reduce the amount of ginger or omit it, but it may change the flavor profile.

1. Can I add other fruits?

• Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like oranges or berries.

1. How do I know if I’m using enough honey?

• Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste based on your sweetness preference.

1. Is it safe for children?

• Yes, but adjust the spice levels and consult a pediatrician if necessary.

1. Can I use frozen ginger or garlic?
   • Fresh is best, but frozen can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Flu/Cold Tea Bombs are not just a delightful way to stay healthy during the cold season; they’re also incredibly easy to prepare and customize. The combination of ginger, garlic, turmeric, and other spices creates a potent and flavorful remedy that’s perfect for warming up during those chilly days. Whether you’re fighting off the sniffles or just looking for a cozy drink, these tea bombs are sure to become a staple in your home. So, stock up, freeze a batch, and enjoy the comfort of a soothing cup of tea whenever you need it!

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