As we find ourselves in the midst of the season, it’s the perfect time to indulge in a revitalizing and gratifying upgrade to our beloved iced tea: goji basil tea. You’ll soon be saying, “Iced green tea Arnold Palmer who?”
What are goji berries, where are they from? Goji berries were born in China and are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that does the body good. They are believed to enhance overall well-being and boost immunity. Goji berries are available for purchase in small or large quantities and do not require refrigeration but a sealed container. They serve as an excellent ingredient for mocktails, cocktails, herbal teas (here we are), and are a staple in my kitchen at all times. Introducing my goji basil tea.
Goji Basil Tea
For the goji tea
Ingredients:
- 2 cup(s) Navitas dried goji berries
- 2 cups boiling water
Instructions:
- Place the dried goji berries in a heatproof bowl.
- Pour the boiling water over the goji berries, making sure they are fully submerged.
- Let the goji berries steep in the hot water for about 10-15 minutes. Longer better here. The berries will get really plump and lose some color. Slightly and this indicates they are ready.
- After steeping, strain the goji berries from the water using a fine-mesh sieve strainer or cheesecloth.
- The steeped goji berries once removed from the steep can be enjoyed as is or used in various recipes like smoothies, oatmeal, dips, salads, or baked goods.
- The goji berry-infused water can also be consumed as a tea (because we are here) or used as a base or mixer for other beverages. Multi-functional little berries.
- Store any leftover steeped goji berries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Bar Chef Note: Steeping them in hot water helps to soften them and release their flavors, making them more enjoyable to eat or use in recipes. Although I do love the crunch when dried gojis are incorporated into a smoothie or combined with a frozen treat.
For the ice cubes
Repeat the tea making process. Allow the goji tea to cool to room temperature. Pour the goji tea and some dried and plump berries (not to waste) into ice cube trays and place them in the freezer. Let the goji tea freeze completely, usually takes about 4-6 hours or overnight. Once the goji tea ice cubes are frozen, remove them from the ice cube trays and transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for storage until ready to use. I use a two-part sphere tray for halves so that the gojis appear to be floating.
For the Basil Syrup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add the fresh basil leaves to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the basil flavor to infuse into the syrup.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool completely.
- Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the basil leaves.
- Transfer the basil simple syrup to a clean glass jar or bottle for storage.
- The basil simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Bar Chef Note: This basil simple syrup can be used in various cocktails, lemonades, teas, or desserts to add a refreshing and aromatic basil flavor. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.
For the drink
Remove the goji ice cubes from the freezer and add them to a martini glass. Pour your chilled goji berry tea over the top. Garnish with a basil leaf.
Glass: martini glass
Garnish: basil leaf (or two) on a metal cocktail pick. Bonus points if you grow your own.
Where to buy the goods? Ice trays, glasses, metal picks and stuff? Blonde Behind the Bucket Storefront
**i may receive commissions from eligible purchases