Spruce Tip Tea
Capture the essence of the spring forest with this bright, citrusy infusion made from tender young spruce tips. This woodland tea offers a refreshing pine aroma balanced with a hint of honey and lemon, making it a perfect vitamin-rich tonic.
Prep
5m
Cook
10m
Serves
2
1 Ingredients
| Qty | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 cup 50 g | Fresh spruce tips |
| 2 cups 480 ml | Water |
| 1 tbsp 21 g | Honey |
| 1 tsp 5 ml | Lemon juice |
2 Method
Step 1. Forage for bright green, tender spruce tips in the spring and rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris or forest insects.
Step 2. Place the spruce tips in a heat-proof teapot or large jar.
Step 3. Bring the water to a rolling boil in a kettle, then remove from heat for 30 seconds to let the temperature drop slightly.
Step 4. Pour the hot water over the spruce tips and cover the vessel to trap the essential oils.
Step 5. Allow the tea to steep for 10 to 15 minutes; the water should turn a very pale yellow or remain clear with a distinct pine aroma.
Step 6. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into individual mugs.
Step 7. Stir in honey and a squeeze of lemon to enhance the natural citrus notes of the spruce.
💡 Chef's Tips
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Only harvest the bright green new growth at the ends of the branches to ensure the best flavor.
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Avoid boiling the spruce tips directly in the water, as high heat can destroy the Vitamin C and make the tea taste bitter.
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Ensure you have identified the tree correctly; avoid Yew trees, which are toxic and have similar-looking needles.
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