Ginger Tea
Tea & Drinks • Sri Lanka
ගැන Ginger Tea
Black tea infused with fresh ginger — rainy-day soother.
How to Make Ginger Tea (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sri Lankan Ginger Tea, locally known as 'Inguru Tea,' is a beloved beverage that graces homes across the island, from bustling cities to peaceful rural villages. This aromatic tea is prized for its warming qualities, soothing flavor, and invigorating aroma. Ginger Tea is commonly enjoyed throughout the day, offering comfort during rainy weather or a refreshing start to the morning. The blend of freshly grated ginger, pure Ceylon black tea, and subtle sweeteners creates a uniquely Sri Lankan experience that reflects the island’s rich tea culture. Traditionally, Ginger Tea is cherished not just for its comforting taste but also for its wellness properties. Ginger has long been used in Sri Lankan households as a remedy for colds, digestive issues, and fatigue. The delicate balance of spiciness from ginger and the robustness of Ceylon tea make this beverage both delicious and rejuvenating. Whether served to guests or enjoyed solo, this tea embodies Sri Lankan hospitality and the island’s love for natural, wholesome ingredients. Choosing to prepare Sri Lankan Ginger Tea at home ensures you’re enjoying a clean, vegan, and health-conscious drink. The recipe uses minimal added sugars and can easily be adapted to various dietary needs, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a flavorful, low-calorie beverage with numerous health benefits.
Ingredients(for 1 cup (about 200 ml) per serving)
- 2 cups Water
- 2 inches Fresh ginger root (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 2 teaspoons Ceylon black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)
- 1 small stick Cinnamon stick (optional, for extra aroma) - optional
- 2 cloves Whole cloves (optional, for added spice) - optional
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (lightly bruised, optional) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Palm jaggery or kithul treacle (or use coconut sugar; adjust to taste) - optional
- Few drops Fresh lime juice (optional, for brightness) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
3 minutes
Use filtered water for the cleanest tea flavor.
- 2
Add the sliced fresh ginger to the boiling water. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes to extract maximum flavor.
10 minutes
The longer you simmer, the stronger the ginger flavor.
- 3
If using, add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and bruised lemongrass during simmering.
2 minutes
Optional spices add complexity to the tea.
- 4
Add the Ceylon black tea leaves or tea bags. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tea to steep and infuse with the ginger.
3 minutes
Do not over-steep to avoid bitterness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing Ginger Tea ensures you’re consuming minimal calories, no unhealthy fats, and natural plant compounds that promote well-being. It’s caffeine content is moderate, offering a gentle energy boost without the crash. With immune-boosting ginger and the antioxidants of Ceylon tea, this beverage is a smart choice for maintaining overall health, supporting metabolism, and staying hydrated.
Sri Lankan Ginger Tea is packed with antioxidants from both ginger and Ceylon black tea. Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, aiding digestion and boosting immunity. Black tea provides polyphenols and flavonoids that support heart health. The optional addition of kithul treacle or palm jaggery offers a natural sweetener with trace minerals, keeping the glycemic load lower than refined sugar. This beverage is naturally vegan, low in calories, and contains zero fat, making it suitable for various healthy diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Grate ginger instead of slicing for a stronger, more intense flavor.
- 💡Adjust sweetness to taste, but keep it minimal for maximum health benefits.
- 💡Add fresh lime juice at the end to preserve its vitamin C content.
Storage & Serving
Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently before serving. Avoid keeping for longer to preserve aroma and flavor.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 30.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7.2 g |
| Total Fat | 0.2 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |