Flu/Cold Tea Bombs

Introduction

When the chill of winter arrives, so do the inevitable colds and flus. As someone who values natural remedies, I wanted to create something that could help alleviate symptoms and provide warmth during those dreary days. Enter Flu/Cold Tea Bombs! These little gems are not only simple to make but are also loaded with ingredients known for their health benefits. After preparing a big batch and freezing them, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to brew a cup of comfort whenever the need arose. My family loved them, and I found myself reaching for these tea bombs more often than I expected. 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 turmeric
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 ½ tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar (ACV)
• 1 ½ tablespoons honey
• 3 cups of water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling the lemons and breaking the ginger into smaller pieces for easier blending. Peel the garlic cloves from the head of garlic.
2. Blend: In a high-speed blender, combine the peeled lemons, fresh ginger, garlic, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, apple cider vinegar, honey, and water. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
3. Strain: Once blended, strain the mixture to remove the solids. Next time, I recommend using a cheesecloth for a finer strain, as a fine mesh sieve may leave some sediment.
4. Pour and Freeze: Pour the strained liquid into a silicone muffin tray. Each portion should be about 1/8 cup. If you have leftover liquid, pour it into a cup and enjoy a hot tea immediately!
5. Freeze: Place the silicone tray in the freezer. Once the tea bombs are frozen solid, you can pop them out and store them in a zip-top bag for easy access.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 tea bomb (about 1/8 cup)
• Calories: 45 kcal
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve

• Hot Tea: Drop a frozen tea bomb into a mug of hot water and let it steep for a few minutes.
• Garnish: Add a slice of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch.
• Sweeten: Adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
• Enjoy as a Remedy: Sip on this tea whenever you feel under the weather or just need a warm boost.
• Batch Brew: Make a larger batch by combining multiple tea bombs into a pot of hot water for family or friends.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons, ginger, and garlic yield the best flavors and health benefits.
3. Storage: Keep frozen tea bombs in an airtight container or zip-top bag to prevent freezer burn.
4. Experiment: Try adding other spices like cardamom or cloves for a unique flavor.
5. Immediate Use: If you don’t want to freeze them, enjoy the entire batch as fresh tea!

Recipe Variations

• Herbal Additions: Add fresh herbs like thyme or mint for extra flavor and health benefits.
• Different Sweeteners: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
• Citrus Variety: Experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits for a different taste.
• Chai Spice: Incorporate chai spices like nutmeg or star anise for a cozy twist.
• Cold Brew: Instead of hot water, pour over ice for a refreshing cold drink.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Beverage: Serve alongside a light snack, such as whole grain crackers or a slice of ginger bread.
• In a Thermos: Pack tea bombs in a thermos for on-the-go comfort when out and about.
• For Gatherings: Offer a tea bar where guests can choose their bomb and add optional ingredients.
• Health Boosters: Pair with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to enhance the nutritional value.
• With Soup: Enjoy a cup of tea with a hearty soup for a complete wellness meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: After the tea bombs are fully frozen, pop them out of the silicone tray and store them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to 6 months.
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place if using within a week. For longer storage, keep them frozen.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use dried spices instead of fresh?

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

1. How long do the tea bombs last in the freezer?

• They can last up to 6 months if stored properly.

1. Can I add more sweetener?

• Absolutely! Adjust to your taste preference.

1. Is this recipe vegan?

• You can make it vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup.

1. Can I make this in smaller batches?

• Yes, simply halve the ingredients to suit your needs.

1. What should I do if I don’t have a blender?

• You can use a food processor or finely chop everything by hand, although blending is recommended for a smooth consistency.

1. Is it okay to drink this every day?

• Yes, but as with any remedy, moderation is key. Listen to your body.

1. Can I heat the tea bombs directly in the microwave?

• It’s best to dissolve them in hot water for the best flavor.

1. What can I do with leftover ingredients?

• Use leftover ginger and garlic in cooking or in other teas.

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
   • Fresh lemon juice is recommended for better flavor and health benefits, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Flu/Cold Tea Bombs are a fantastic addition to your wellness routine, especially during cold and flu season. Not only do they provide comfort and warmth, but they also come packed with ingredients that offer health benefits. By preparing a batch ahead of time, you’ll always have a soothing drink on hand when you need it most. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious, spicy kick while boosting your immune system. Here’s to your health and comfort, one tea bomb at a time!

Print