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Iced Green Tea
Beverages • India
How to Make Iced Green Tea (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Iced Green Tea is a refreshing beverage that has gained immense popularity across India, especially during the sweltering summer months. Traditionally, green tea—known in Hindi as 'hari chai'—is valued for its delicate flavor and numerous health benefits. Infusing it with cooling Indian ingredients like nimbu (lemon), pudina (mint), and honey brings a delightful twist that appeals to the Indian palate and enhances its nutritional profile. This beverage is often enjoyed as a healthy alternative to sugary soft drinks and is perfect for cooling off after a long day or during festive gatherings. Iced Green Tea is particularly popular during festivals like Holi and Diwali, where families seek light, revitalizing drinks to complement rich festive foods. Its subtle flavor, combined with the tang of nimbu and the freshness of mint, makes it a favorite among all age groups. It is easy to prepare at home and can be customized with local spices or herbs, reflecting India's diverse culinary culture. Whether served at a family get-together or as a post-yoga refreshment, Iced Green Tea embodies the modern Indian approach to health-conscious living without compromising on taste.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (200 ml) per serving)
- 2 teaspoons Green tea leaves (hari chai patti)
- 2 cups Water (paani)
- 10-12 Mint leaves (pudina patta)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (nimbu ras)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (shahad) - optional
- 1 cup Ice cubes (baraf ke tukde)
- 1/2 inch piece, sliced Ginger (adrak) - optional
- a pinch Rock salt (sendha namak) - optional
- 4-5 Tulsi leaves (holy basil) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Once it reaches a rolling boil, turn off the heat.
3 minutes
Always use fresh water for best flavor.
- 2
Add green tea leaves, ginger slices, and tulsi leaves to the hot water. Cover and let it steep for 3-4 minutes.
4 minutes
Do not over-steep to avoid bitterness.
- 3
Strain the brewed tea into a jug and discard the leaves and ginger.
2 minutes
Use a fine mesh strainer for a clear beverage.
- 4
Add honey (or your chosen sweetener) and lemon juice to the hot tea. Mix well until dissolved.
2 minutes
Add honey when the tea is warm, not boiling, to retain nutrients.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Iced Green Tea recipe is a smart choice for those seeking a healthy, refreshing drink. It is naturally low in calories, free from refined sugars, and uses antioxidant-rich green tea leaves and herbs. The use of natural sweeteners and fresh ingredients helps regulate blood sugar and supports overall wellness. Its hydrating properties make it ideal for a weight loss or diabetic-friendly diet, and it is gentle on the stomach—perfect for daily consumption.
Iced Green Tea is low in calories and free from unhealthy fats. Green tea is a rich source of antioxidants like catechins, which support metabolism and immune health. The addition of lemon enhances vitamin C content, while mint and tulsi offer digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. Honey provides natural sweetness and trace minerals. This beverage is hydrating, supports digestion, and can be part of a calorie-conscious diet. It contains negligible amounts of carbs, protein, and fat, making it suitable for most dietary preferences.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use high-quality loose leaf green tea for a more aromatic and flavorful drink.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust steeping time to control bitterness; never exceed 5 minutes.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra cooling, freeze mint leaves in ice cubes and use them in your glass.
Storage & Serving
Store prepared Iced Green Tea in a glass jug in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add fresh mint and ice just before serving for best taste.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 2.0 kcal |
