Kinteata - Traditional Cypriot Herbal Tea

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
• 1 tablespoon dried sage leaves 1 tablespoon dried sage leaves
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary leaves 1 tablespoon dried rosemary leaves
• 1 tablespoon dried lemon verbena leaves 1 tablespoon dried lemon verbena leaves
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional) 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 10 kcal / 42 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. 2.
   Add the chamomile flowers, sage leaves, rosemary leaves, and lemon verbena leaves to the boiling water.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the herbs simmer for 5 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the tea steep for an additional 5 minutes.
5. 5.
   Strain the tea into cups or mugs.
6. 6.
   Sweeten with honey, if desired.
7. 7.
   Serve hot and enjoy the soothing flavors of Kinteata.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chamomile flowers — Use dried chamomile flowers for the best flavor. If you prefer a stronger chamomile taste, you can increase the amount slightly.
• Sage leaves — Dried sage leaves work well in this recipe, but you can also use fresh sage if available.
• Rosemary leaves — Dried rosemary leaves add a subtle earthy flavor. Crush them slightly before adding to the tea to release their aroma.
• Lemon verbena leaves — Dried lemon verbena leaves contribute a citrusy note to the tea. If you can't find lemon verbena, you can substitute with dried lemon balm leaves.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with the herb ratios to find your preferred flavor profile.
• Adjust the steeping time to control the strength of the tea.
• For a sweeter taste, add more honey or substitute with your preferred sweetener.
• Serve Kinteata with traditional Cypriot pastries for an authentic experience.
• Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator and enjoy it chilled the next day.

Serving advice

Serve Kinteata in small cups or mugs to fully appreciate its aroma and flavors. It is often enjoyed as a standalone beverage, but can also be paired with Cypriot desserts or enjoyed alongside a light snack.

Presentation advice

Present Kinteata in delicate teacups or glass mugs to showcase its vibrant golden color. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a slice of lemon for an elegant touch.