Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink that hugs you from the inside out, you’ve come to the right place. My Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is a cherished recipe passed down from my grandmother. It’s not just any tea; it’s a warm, comforting elixir filled with sweet apple goodness, spicy ginger, and aromatic cinnamon. This drink has been my go-to remedy for chilly evenings and busy days when I need a little extra love.

Perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight treat, this tea brings everyone together. Whether you’re under the weather or simply in need of some warmth, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delightful to sip. Let’s dive into why this special drink should be on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious drink simmering away.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love the soothing flavors of apples and spices; it’s perfect for both kids and adults!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare a big batch and enjoy it hot, cold, or at room temperature throughout the week.
• Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants from apples and ginger’s warming qualities, it’s both comforting and good for you!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples, zesty ginger, and fragrant cinnamon creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is half the fun! Each one is wholesome and easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need for our delightful Korean Apple Tea:

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

Variations

One of the best parts about Korean Apple Tea is how flexible it can be! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add more spice: If you love a bit more heat, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some fresh chili slices.
• Try different fruits: Swap out some apples for pears or even add dried fruits like apricots for added sweetness.
• Infuse with herbs: Add fresh mint leaves or thyme during simmering for an herbal twist.
• Sweeten differently: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter and core them without peeling—this way, all that natural sweetness stays locked in! Chopping them helps release their juices during cooking.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You have two great options here! For Instant Pot lovers, combine your chopped apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water in the pot. Lock that lid in place and cook on high pressure for 18 minutes. Prefer the stovetop? No worries! Just toss everything into a stock pot, cover it up, bring it to a boil, then let it simmer until those apples are nice and tender.

Step 3: Strain the Tea

Once cooked, carefully transfer your mixture into a pitcher using a fine mesh sieve. This step is key—it keeps all those soft apple pieces and spices from ending up in your cup. Give those apples a gentle press with a spoon to get every last drop of flavor out!

Step 4: Cool Down

Let your tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it in a pitcher or glass jar. It’s important to let it chill so that when you serve it later—hot or cold—it’s just right!

Step 5: Enjoy Your Creation

Pour yourself a cup of this delightful brew. Sip it hot on chilly days or serve it cold over ice when you need something refreshing. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, it’s sure to wrap you up in warmth!

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

Making this delightful tea is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your experience even further!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji. Their natural sweetness will enhance the flavor of your tea and provide a refreshing base.

• Slice ginger thinly: When preparing your ginger, slicing it thinly allows for better infusion of flavor. This way, each sip of your tea will be bursting with that warm ginger goodness.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: The amount of brown sugar can be tailored to your preference. Start with the suggested amount and add more if you like your tea sweeter; remember, you can always adjust!

• Let it steep longer: After cooking, allow the mixture to steep off the heat for an additional 10 minutes. This extra time helps deepen the flavors, making your tea even more aromatic and delicious.

• Serve warm or chilled: Korean Apple Tea is versatile! Enjoy it hot on a chilly day, or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing drink during warmer weather.

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

Serving this comforting drink can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some fun ideas to present your Saegwa Cha beautifully.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sticks: Place a cinnamon stick in each cup for an elegant touch and extra aroma.
• Fresh apple slices: Add thin slices of apple on top for a fresh look and a hint of flavor.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of mint can brighten up the drink visually and add a refreshing note.

Side Dishes

• Rice cakes: Chewy rice cakes pair wonderfully with the warmth of the tea, adding texture and depth to your snack time.
• Korean pancakes (Jeon): These savory pancakes come in various flavors and provide a delightful contrast to the sweet tea.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad complements the rich flavors of the tea, making for a refreshing side dish.
• Savory crackers or breadsticks: These crunchy bites offer a satisfying crunch and balance out the sweetness of the tea.

Enjoy this warm hug-in-a-mug that is Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)! Whether it’s on a chilly day or a bright afternoon, this beverage is sure to comfort you in every sip.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch in advance and store it for later, making it a convenient option for busy days or cozy nights in.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tea to cool completely at room temperature.
• Transfer any leftovers to a pitcher or glass jar with a tight-sealing lid.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled apple tea into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the liquid may expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For frozen portions, transfer the desired amount of tea from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.
• To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

What are the benefits of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Korean Apple Tea is not only comforting but also packed with health benefits. The combination of ginger and cinnamon can help soothe sore throats, boost immunity, and provide warmth during cold seasons.

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

Absolutely! While sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji work best, feel free to experiment with your favorite apples. Just aim for firm varieties that release good flavor when cooked.

How do I serve Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

You can enjoy it hot, cold, or at room temperature! Serve it plain or garnish with an extra slice of apple or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this lovely Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) as much as I do! It’s such a special recipe that brings warmth not just to your body but also to your heart. Whether you’re sipping it on a chilly evening or sharing it with family and friends, this tea is sure to create lovely moments. Happy brewing!