Anis-Cinnamon Tea

Anis-Cinnamon Tea Recipe from Arabia with Blanched Almonds

Region / culture: Arabia | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Anis-Cinnamon Tea is a warm, aromatic beverage that combines the sweet, licorice-like flavor of aniseed with the spicy warmth of cinnamon. This tea is perfect for chilly evenings or as a soothing drink to enjoy any time of the day. With the addition of lemon juice and honey, it offers a delightful balance of flavors that can calm the mind and rejuvenate the body. The optional slivers of blanched almonds add a nutty texture and enrich the tea's nutritional profile.

History

The tradition of blending spices and herbs to create healing teas dates back thousands of years, with roots in both Eastern and Western cultures. Anis-Cinnamon Tea, in particular, draws inspiration from traditional remedies used to treat colds and digestive issues. Aniseed has been used in Egyptian, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisines for its medicinal properties, while cinnamon has a long history in both culinary and medicinal applications across the world. This recipe is a modern interpretation of these ancient practices, designed for ease of preparation and enjoyment in contemporary settings.

Ingredients

1 cup of water
1 tsp of aniseed
0.25 tsp of cinnamon
1 tbsp of lemon juice
1 tbsp of honey
A few slivers of blanched almonds (optional)

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients, except almonds, in a small pan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain the mixture and serve it hot with slivered almonds.

Variations

For a caffeine boost, you can add a bag of black or green tea during the simmering process. Those looking for a dairy-infused version can add a splash of milk or a milk alternative to create a creamy latte-like beverage. Experimenting with additional spices such as cardamom or cloves can offer new flavor profiles to explore.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To extract the maximum flavor from the aniseed and cinnamon, ensure that the water is at a rolling boil before adding these spices. Simmering on low heat after boiling helps in infusing the water with the aromatic compounds. For a stronger flavor, you can crush the aniseed slightly before adding it to the pan. If you prefer a sweeter tea, adjust the amount of honey according to taste. Using fresh lemon juice not only adds a zesty flavor but also enhances the tea's health benefits.

Serving Suggestions

Anis-Cinnamon Tea can be served hot, immediately after preparation. For a refreshing twist, it can also be chilled and served over ice, making it a versatile beverage for all seasons. Garnishing with a cinnamon stick or a slice of lemon can enhance its visual appeal and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing Anis-Cinnamon Tea is simmering the spices gently to extract their flavors without boiling them for too long, which could lead to bitterness. Straining the tea ensures a smooth texture, free from spice residues.

Ingredient Substitutions

If aniseed is not available, star anise can be used as a substitute, offering a similar licorice flavor. In place of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as sweeteners for those preferring vegan options. Cinnamon sticks can replace ground cinnamon for a subtler infusion.

Make Ahead Tips

Anis-Cinnamon Tea can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or enjoy cold, as preferred. If making ahead, add the lemon juice and honey just before serving to preserve their fresh flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Anis-Cinnamon Tea in a clear glass mug to showcase its warm, amber color. A garnish of lemon wheel, cinnamon stick, or a few floating anise stars can add visual interest and hint at the flavors within.

Pairing Recommendations

This tea pairs beautifully with light pastries, biscuits, or a slice of lemon cake. It can also complement savory breakfast items like croissants or quiches, providing a balance of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds. Avoid boiling the tea during reheating to maintain its delicate flavors.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Anis-Cinnamon Tea contains approximately 70 calories, with the majority coming from the honey. This makes it a low-calorie option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful beverage without consuming too many calories.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Anis-Cinnamon Tea contains approximately 18 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the honey. The natural sugars in honey provide a quick source of energy, making this tea an excellent choice for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Fats

This tea contains negligible amounts of fats, making it an ideal choice for those monitoring their fat intake. The optional slivers of blanched almonds can add a minimal amount of healthy fats, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the beverage without significantly increasing its calorie content.

Proteins

Anis-Cinnamon Tea offers a minimal amount of proteins. However, adding blanched almonds can slightly increase the protein content, making the tea more satiating.

Vitamins and minerals

Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system. Aniseed and cinnamon both contain several minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and iron, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the tea. These spices also offer a range of antioxidants that can help protect the body against oxidative stress.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and soy. However, individuals with a specific allergy to aniseed, cinnamon, or almonds should avoid this tea or modify the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Anis-Cinnamon Tea is a low-calorie, low-fat beverage that offers a good balance of carbohydrates and a range of vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a healthful, flavorful drink that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Summary

Anis-Cinnamon Tea is a delightful blend of aromatic spices and sweeteners, creating a comforting beverage that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Its healthful properties, combined with the ease of preparation, make it a wonderful addition to any daily routine. Whether served hot or cold, this tea offers a moment of tranquility and a burst of flavor that can brighten any day.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Anis-Cinnamon Tea. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning shades of red and gold, and there was a chill in the air that made you crave something warm and comforting. I was visiting my dear friend Maria, who lived in a quaint little cottage just outside of town. Maria was known for her delicious homemade teas, and on that particular day, she had a special treat in store for me.

As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the sweet and spicy aroma of cinnamon and anise wafting through the air. Maria had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she led me to the kitchen, where a pot of steaming tea was waiting on the stove. She poured me a cup and handed it to me with a knowing smile.

"Try this," she said, "It's my secret recipe for Anis-Cinnamon Tea. I think you'll love it."

I took a sip, and immediately my taste buds were awakened by the warm and soothing flavors of anise and cinnamon. The tea was sweetened with a touch of honey and had a subtle hint of citrus from a squeeze of fresh lemon. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Maria must have sensed my curiosity because she laughed and said, "I'll show you how to make it, but you have to promise to keep it a secret. This recipe has been passed down in my family for generations, and I trust you to honor that tradition."

I promised her I would, and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her cozy kitchen, as she taught me the art of making Anis-Cinnamon Tea. She showed me how to select the best quality anise and cinnamon, how to infuse them into hot water to release their flavors, and how to balance the sweetness with just the right amount of honey.

As we sipped our tea and chatted, Maria shared the story of how her great-grandmother had discovered the recipe during a trip to the Middle East many years ago. She had been welcomed into a local family's home and treated to a warm cup of Anis-Cinnamon Tea, which had left a lasting impression on her. When she returned home, she recreated the recipe from memory and passed it down to her descendants.

I was captivated by the history and tradition behind the tea, and I knew that I wanted to make it a part of my own culinary repertoire. Maria encouraged me to experiment with different variations, adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger for a spicy kick, or substituting orange peel for lemon for a citrusy twist.

After that day, Anis-Cinnamon Tea became a staple in my kitchen. I would brew a pot whenever I needed a pick-me-up or wanted to relax and unwind after a long day. The warm and comforting flavors never failed to soothe my soul and transport me back to that cozy kitchen with Maria.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition just as Maria had done for me. Each time I brewed a pot of Anis-Cinnamon Tea, I felt a connection to the generations that had come before me and a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures of a warm cup of tea shared with loved ones.

And so, the recipe for Anis-Cinnamon Tea became not just a delicious drink but a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of sharing a taste of the past with those we hold dear. I will always be grateful to Maria for introducing me to this special tea and for entrusting me with the secret of its creation. It is a gift that I will cherish and pass down for generations to come.