Citrus Green Tea Cold Brew
Bright citrus notes complement the delicate, grassy flavour of green tea in this refreshing blend. The cold brewing process brings out the natural sweetness of both the tea and the fruit.
Instructions
- 1
Slice the orange and lemon into thin rounds. Remove any seeds you see.
- 2
Add the loose leaf green tea to a large glass jar or pitcher.
- 3
Add the citrus slices to the jar, overlapping them for visual appeal if using a clear container.
- 4
Pour the cold water over the tea and citrus. Stir gently.
- 5
Cover and refrigerate for 4-6 hours. Green tea needs less time than black tea.
- 6
Strain the cold brew, removing both tea leaves and citrus. The citrus can become bitter if left too long.
- 7
Serve over ice, garnished with fresh citrus wheels and herbs if desired.
Tips
- •Use fresh, high-quality citrus if possible, as the peel will be steeping in your drink.
- •Remove the citrus after straining, leaving it in too long can add bitterness from the pith.
- •Taste at 4 hours and decide if you want a stronger green tea flavour.
- •This cold brew is best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
Variations
- •Grapefruit Green Tea: Swap the orange for pink grapefruit for a more bitter, sophisticated flavour.
- •Citrus Mint: Add a large sprig of fresh mint for a mojito-inspired twist.
- •Blood Orange: Use blood oranges when in season for a stunning ruby colour.
- •Yuzu Green Tea: If you can find yuzu, it creates an incredibly aromatic cold brew.
The Story Behind the Recipe
Green tea and citrus are natural partners, frequently paired in wellness blends. However, hot brewing green tea with citrus often results in a \"muddled\" flavor where the tea's delicate grassy notes are overwhelmed by the acidity of the fruit.
By cold brewing, we avoid the rapid extraction of tannins that can lead to bitterness. This allows the subtle, umami-rich notes of a high-quality Sencha or the toasted sweetness of Dragon Well to emerge. When combined with fresh orange and lemon, the result is a bright, multi-layered beverage that feels sophisticated and cleansing.
Flavour Profile
This blend is light and zesty. The first sip brings forward the bright acidity of lemon, followed by the rounding sweetness of orange. The finish is distinctly green—fresh, grassy, and crisp—leaving you feeling refreshed.
Perfect Pairings
This is the ultimate \"spa water\" upgrade. It pairs beautifully with light sushi, spring rolls, or a fresh watermelon and feta salad. It is also an excellent afternoon pick-me-up that won't give you a caffeine crash.
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