Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a hug in a cup, then this Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is just what you need! This delightful drink has been passed down through generations in my family, and there’s nothing quite like it to soothe your soul. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply want to cozy up on a chilly evening, this tea is a perfect choice. It brings together the sweetness of apples, the warmth of ginger, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon—making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

This beloved recipe not only warms you up but also provides a wealth of health benefits. It’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, which is why it holds such a special place in my heart. Let me share this simple yet delightful recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: Just 10 minutes of prep time means you can whip this up in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and spicy flavors.
• Versatile serving: Enjoy it hot, cold, or at room temperature—perfect for any occasion!
• Make-ahead convenience: Brew a big batch and store it for later; it tastes great even after a few days.
• Healthful ingredients: Packed with vitamins from apples and the soothing properties of ginger and cinnamon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that your Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is both nourishing and delicious. Gather these items for a delightful experience:

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (Sweet, firm varieties like Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add citrus zest: A bit of lemon or orange zest adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
• Include other spices: Try adding cloves or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Sweeten differently: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Mix in herbs: A few sprigs of mint can give a refreshing twist to this cozy drink.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter them and remove the cores; there’s no need to peel them! Keeping the skin on adds flavor and nutrients to your tea.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can make this tea using either an Instant Pot or on the stove top. If using an Instant Pot, combine the apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water in the pot. Lock the lid into place and set it to cook on high pressure for 18 minutes. For stove top preparation, bring everything to a boil in a stock pot before letting it simmer until the apples are soft.

Step 3: Transfer to Pitcher

Once cooked, let’s get that delicious tea into your pitcher! Place a fine mesh sieve over your pitcher or jar. Slowly pour the apple mixture through it to catch any bits while pressing gently on the apples with a spoon to extract all those lovely juices.

Step 4: Cool Down

Allow your tea to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it into airtight containers for storage. It stays fresh in the fridge for several days!

Step 5: Time to Enjoy!

Pour yourself a cup of this aromatic tea—hot or cold—and savor every sip! It’s perfect for sharing with friends during gatherings or enjoying alone while curled up with a good book.

Now that you know how easy it is to make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha), I hope you give this recipe a try soon!

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

Making the perfect Korean Apple Tea is all about attention to detail, and these tips will help you achieve that comforting cup every time!

• Use organic apples: Opting for organic apples not only enhances the flavor but also ensures you’re avoiding pesticides. The natural sweetness of these apples shines through in the tea.
• Slice ginger thinly: Thin slices of ginger release their warmth and flavor more efficiently during cooking. This results in a more robust, spicy profile in your tea.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. If you like it less sweet, start with a smaller amount and taste before adding more.
• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon and ginger are traditional, consider adding other spices like star anise or cloves for a unique twist that can enhance the aroma and flavor complexity of your tea.
• Cool completely before storing: Allow the tea to cool down at room temperature before sealing it in a jar. This prevents condensation inside the container, which could dilute your delicious brew.

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

Serving Korean Apple Tea can be as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this soothing drink beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a refreshing touch and vibrant color to your tea, enhancing its visual appeal.
• Thin apple slices: Place a couple of thin apple slices on the rim of your cup for a lovely garnish that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Cinnamon stick stirrer: Use an extra cinnamon stick as a stirrer in each cup. It not only looks decorative but also adds an extra hint of cinnamon as you sip.

Side Dishes

• Korean Rice Cakes (Tteok): These chewy rice cakes come in various flavors and textures, making them a delightful sweet pairing that balances the warmth of the tea.
• Spicy Korean Pickled Radish (Danmuji): The tangy crunch of pickled radish provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the apple tea, stimulating your palate.
• Sesame Seed Cookies (Gangjeong): Light and crispy, these cookies made from glutinous rice flour are lightly sweetened and pair wonderfully well with warm beverages like apple tea.
• Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits can brighten up your table. The freshness of fruits offers a nice balance to the warm, spiced notes in your drink.

Enjoy your homemade Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) along with these delightful accompaniments!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and extend its delightful flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your apple tea in an airtight pitcher or glass jar.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• For best taste, consume within three days of making it.

Freezing

• Portion the tea into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the liquid will expand when frozen.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• For individual servings, heat on the stovetop over low heat until warm, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave in short intervals (about 30 seconds), stirring in between until heated through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! While sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji are recommended, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties. Just ensure they are sweet and juicy for the best flavor.

What health benefits does Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) offer?

This tea is not only comforting but also packed with health benefits. Apples provide vitamins and antioxidants, ginger aids digestion and reduces inflammation, while cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties too!

How do I adjust the sweetness in Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

You can easily modify the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your preference. Alternatively, you might try using honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Can I add other spices to my Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. A pinch of nutmeg or cloves can add a lovely warmth. Just keep in mind that each spice will alter the flavor slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon brings warmth and comfort into your home! It’s not just a drink; it’s a hug in a cup that nourishes both body and soul. Enjoy making it for yourself, your friends, or family—there’s always something special about sharing a warm drink together. Happy brewing!