Drink Your Nutrients Hot & Cold

Spice Chai 

This phytochemical rich tea is a nice digestive after a heavy meal. It also makes a great gift: buy individual tea filters, available from Mountain Rose Herbs and specialty grocers, to hand-fill and tie with a ribbon for a pretty present. 

Ingredients: 

10 cinnamon sticks 

5 tablespoons whole cardamom pods 

5 tablespoons dried rosehips 

5 tablespoons fennel seeds 

3 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon dried ginger 

5 teaspoons whole cloves 

Instructions: 

Break cinnamon sticks into at least four pieces with a mallet or back of a heavy spoon. Use the same tool or a mortar and pestle to break open the cardamom pods to expose their seeds. 

Mix cinnamon, cardamom seeds, and remaining spices together. Pack into 10 paper tea filters, if desired. Store loose tea or bags in an airtight container until ready to use. 

To brew: Use one bag or 1 tablespoon loose tea per cup. Steep in hot water, covered, at least 10 minutes before consuming. 

Enjoy as is or add warmed milk

Preparation Time: 

15 minutes 

Makes 10 mugs of tea 

Copyright 2013, A. Bermann, Original recipe 

Classic “Spa” Water 

Infused water can make drinking water more enjoyable, refreshing and delicious. Imagine a “spa moment” as you sip on this refreshing drink. 

Ingredients

1 lemon or orange, sliced thinly 

1/2 cucumber, peeled and sliced thinly 

8-10 sprigs fresh mint, crushed slightly 

4-5 sprigs fresh rosemary, crushed slightly 

2 to 2-1/2 quarts drinking water 

• Combine all ingredients in a pitcher. 

• Chill for at least 2 hours; add ice cubes just before serving. 

• Variation: Part or all of the water may be substituted with sparkling water or iced tea for pizzazz. 

Preparation time: 10 minutes 

Makes about 8 to 10 one-cup servings 

Adapted by Cristen Harris from www.InfusedWaters.com