Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a heartwarming drink that wraps you in a cozy hug, then Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is the answer! This delightful tea brings back fond memories of my childhood, where my grandmother would brew it up whenever I had a sniffle or just needed a little comfort. The sweet apples, fragrant ginger, and warming cinnamon create a soothing blend that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or sharing it with friends, this drink has a special way of bringing smiles all around.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients to create something magical. Just wholesome apples mixed with the zesty goodness of ginger and the warm spice of cinnamon. Trust me; once you’ve tried it, you’ll be making it over and over again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 18 minutes of cooking, you can have this comforting drink ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone will adore the sweet, fruity flavor combined with warming spices—it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
• Health benefits: Packed with antioxidants from apples and ginger, this tea not only tastes great but also helps boost your immune system.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it hot or cold! You can sip on it throughout the day or serve it at gatherings as a delightful beverage for guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this delicious Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is super easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create a drink that not only warms your body but also your soul!

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (Sweet, firm, preferably organic varieties like Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh)
• 10 cups water
• 2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar
• 4 inch (55 grams) Ginger (preferably organic)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! The beauty of Korean Apple Tea is its flexibility. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add more spices: Experiment with additional spices like cloves or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Mix in other fruits: Toss in some sliced pears or oranges for a fruity twist that adds different flavors.
• Sweeten naturally: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Chill it out: Make an iced version by cooling the tea down after brewing—perfect for warm days!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by chopping your apples! Wash them thoroughly under running water. Then quarter and core them—no need to peel. Keeping the skin adds extra nutrients and color to our lovely tea!

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You have two options here! If you’re using an Instant Pot, simply add the chopped apples along with sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water into the pot. Lock the lid and cook at high pressure for just 18 minutes. For stovetop lovers, combine everything in a stock pot. Bring it to a boil before lowering the heat and letting it simmer covered until those apples become wonderfully soft.

Step 3: Strain the Tea

Once cooked to perfection, it’s time to transfer your tea! Grab a pitcher or mason jar and place a fine mesh sieve over its opening. Carefully pour the apple mixture through the sieve so all those flavorful juices flow through while keeping any solid bits behind.

Step 4: Cool Down

Let your tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it up in your pitcher or glass jar. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Now comes the best part—serving your Korean Apple Tea! Pour yourself a cup and enjoy it hot right away for instant comfort. Or chill it in the fridge if you’re craving something refreshing later on!

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

Making Korean Apple Tea is a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can take your tea to the next level!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji. Their natural sweetness enhances the tea’s flavor without needing excessive added sugar.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh ginger and cinnamon sticks for a more robust flavor. Dried spices can lose their potency over time, so fresh ingredients will give your tea that authentic warmth.

• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. You can also substitute it with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.

• Steeping Time is Key: Letting the mixture steep after cooking helps to deepen the flavors. Don’t rush this step; it allows the apple and spice notes to meld beautifully.

• Experiment with Additions: Try adding other spices like cloves or star anise for an extra layer of flavor. These additions can bring a unique twist to your traditional recipe.

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

Serving Korean Apple Tea is all about creating a cozy atmosphere that highlights its comforting flavors. Here are some ideas to make your presentation special.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Dust: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top of each cup adds an aromatic touch and enhances the visual appeal.

• Apple Slices: Thinly slice some fresh apples and float them on top of the tea in your serving cups for a lovely garnish that also adds extra flavor.

Side Dishes

• Rice Cakes: Soft, chewy rice cakes provide a delightful contrast to the warm tea. They can be enjoyed plain or with various fillings like sweet red bean paste.

• Korean Pancakes (Jeon): These savory pancakes made from vegetables or seafood add a heartiness that complements the light, refreshing flavors of the tea.

• Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your meal and offers a refreshing palate cleanser between sips of tea, enhancing the whole experience.

• Sweet Potato Chips: Crunchy and delicious, these chips offer a satisfying texture contrast while their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the apple tea.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon! Whether you’re cozying up at home or entertaining friends, this drink is sure to warm hearts and brighten spirits.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this delightful drink whenever you need some warmth or comfort.

Storing Leftovers

• Pour any leftover tea into a clean pitcher or airtight glass jar.
• Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 5-7 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to store the tea for longer, consider freezing it!
• Pour cooled tea into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to use.

Reheating

• For reheating, pour the desired amount into a saucepan.
• Warm over low heat on the stove until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe container for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Yes! While sweet apples like Gala or Fuji are preferred for their flavor, feel free to experiment with other varieties. Just ensure they are firm so they hold up during cooking.

How does ginger affect the flavor of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Ginger adds a lovely warming spice that complements the sweetness of the apples perfectly. It not only enhances flavor but also brings several health benefits!

Can I adjust the sweetness of my Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Absolutely! You can modify the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preference. Start with less and add more if needed after tasting.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes! This comforting tea is great for all ages. Just keep an eye on the ginger’s spiciness level based on your child’s taste buds.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)! Its soothing warmth, delightful flavors, and health benefits make it truly special—perfect for cozy evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. Enjoy this drink hot, cold, or anywhere in between! I’d love to hear how your version turns out; happy sipping!