Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink to warm your soul, you’ve come to the right place! My Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is not just any ordinary beverage; it’s a cherished family recipe passed down from my grandma. Whenever I feel a chill in the air or just need a comforting pick-me-up, this tea brings back memories of her kitchen filled with the soothing scents of apples, ginger, and cinnamon.

This delightful drink is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. It’s also an inviting treat for family gatherings. Imagine serving this warm brew alongside laughter and stories—it truly makes any occasion feel special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple ingredients, making Korean Apple Tea is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: This drink is perfect for all ages—kids and adults alike will love its sweet and spicy flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, hot or cold!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, ginger, and cinnamon creates a comforting taste that feels like a warm hug in a cup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Korean Apple Tea, you only need some wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Tea

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples: Sweet, firm apples like Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh work best.
• 10 cups water: Fresh water is essential for brewing.
• 2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar: This adds a lovely sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 4 inch (55 grams) Ginger: Fresh ginger gives the tea its warming spice—go for organic if you can!
• 2 cinnamon sticks: These add depth and warmth to the tea.
• 2 tsp black peppercorns: A subtle kick that enhances the overall flavor.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Citrus: Squeeze in some fresh lemon or orange juice for an extra zing.
• Spice it Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or clove for added warmth during cold months.
• Sweeten Naturally: Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Make it Iced: Serve the tea chilled over ice during warmer days for a refreshing twist.

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

Step 1: Chop Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter them and remove the cores; no need to peel! Keeping the skin on allows all those nutrients to shine through. Chopping them into manageable pieces helps release their natural juices during cooking.

Step 2: Instant Pot Directions

For quick preparation using an Instant Pot, add your chopped apples along with sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, and 10 cups of water into the pot. Lock the lid in place and set it to cook on high pressure for 18 minutes. Once done, release the steam manually. This method intensifies flavors quickly—perfect for busy days!

Step 3: Stove Top Directions

Prefer traditional methods? No problem! In a stock pot, combine your apple chunks with sliced ginger, brown sugar, peppercorns, and water. Cover it up and bring everything to a boil. Then reduce heat to simmer until those apples are soft—about 30 minutes should do it. Letting it steep off heat for another 10 minutes allows those spices to infuse beautifully.

Step 4: Transfer to a Pitcher

Now comes the fun part! Place a fine mesh sieve over your pitcher or glass jar. Carefully pour your brewed apple tea through it while pressing down on the apples with the back of a spoon—this helps extract every bit of delicious juice. Take your time here; we want all that goodness without any debris!

Step 5: Cool

Let your apple tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it up in your favorite pitcher or jar. Proper cooling ensures that you don’t trap any heat inside which could spoil your tea.

Step 6: Enjoy

When you’re ready for that first sip—or whenever you’re in need of comfort—pour yourself a cup of this soothing drink! Whether enjoyed hot, cold, or at room temperature, Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is sure to warm both body and spirit.

Pro Tips for Making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

This delightful tea is not only comforting but also easy to customize. Here are some tips to make your brewing experience even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh, organic apples and ginger enhance the flavor and nutritional benefits of the tea, ensuring a vibrant, refreshing drink.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter tea, feel free to increase the brown sugar or try adding honey or maple syrup after brewing.
• Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an exciting twist. These spices can complement the ginger and cinnamon beautifully.
• Cool it down for summer: Serve it chilled over ice during hot weather; it’s a refreshing drink that can help you stay cool while still enjoying its warm flavors.
• Store properly: Make sure to cool the tea completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps maintain freshness and prevents any unwanted fermentation.

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

Serving your Korean Apple Tea is all about creating a cozy atmosphere that complements its heartwarming qualities. Here are some lovely ideas to present this delicious drink.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon stick stirrer: A cinnamon stick not only adds a beautiful touch but also enhances the aroma as you sip your tea.
• Apple slices: Thinly sliced apples placed on top of the tea add visual interest and a hint of extra flavor.

Side Dishes

• Rice cakes (Tteok): These chewy rice cakes come in various flavors and textures, making them a delightful companion to your apple tea. They add a satisfying contrast while being naturally gluten-free.
• Korean sweet potato chips: Lightly baked or fried sweet potato chips offer a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the warmth of the tea, balancing sweetness with crunch.
• Vegetable dumplings (Mandu): Steamed or pan-fried vegetable dumplings filled with a variety of veggies provide hearty satisfaction alongside your soothing beverage.
• Seasonal fruit platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like pears, grapes, or berries adds freshness and complements the flavors in your apple tea beautifully.

Enjoy sipping your homemade Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon, surrounded by loved ones and delightful pairings!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch in advance, so you always have this cozy drink on hand whenever you need a warm pick-me-up or a soothing remedy.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tea in a tightly sealed pitcher or glass jar.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• If you notice any separation, simply give it a gentle stir before serving.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the tea in ice cube trays.
• Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for easy access.
• Simply thaw the cubes in the refrigerator or warm them directly in your cup when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• To reheat, pour the desired amount into a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
• You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Enjoy your tea hot or at room temperature as preferred!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha).

Can I use different types of apples for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Absolutely! While sweet and firm apples like Gala or Fuji are recommended for their flavor, feel free to experiment with any variety that you enjoy. Just keep in mind that tart apples may alter the sweetness level.

How long can I store Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

You can store this delicious tea in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer preservation, consider freezing it in ice cube trays.

Is there a caffeine-free option for Korean Apple Tea?

Yes! This recipe is naturally caffeine-free as it does not contain any tea leaves or coffee. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a soothing drink without caffeine.

What health benefits does ginger provide in this tea?

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe digestive issues. It’s also great for boosting your immune system, making this tea perfect during cold seasons.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this heartwarming Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). It’s more than just a drink; it’s a hug in a cup filled with love and warmth from my grandma’s kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or relaxing with friends, I hope this recipe brings comfort to your home just as it has to mine. Happy brewing!