Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a heartwarming drink that feels like a hug in a cup, then you’ve come to the right place! My Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is a cherished recipe passed down from my grandma. This cozy drink is not just for chilly nights; it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. The combination of sweet apples, zesty ginger, and warming cinnamon creates a delightful aroma that fills your home with comfort and love.

What makes this tea so special is its simplicity and the way it brings back memories of family time. It’s easy to make and packed with health benefits, making it a great choice for the whole family. So gather your ingredients, and let’s make this soothing tea together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have everything ready to brew this delightful tea.
• Family-friendly: This naturally sweet drink is loved by kids and adults alike, making it perfect for any gathering.
• Perfectly cozy: The warm flavors of ginger and cinnamon create a comforting experience that warms you from the inside out.
• Make-ahead convenience: Brew a big batch and store it to enjoy hot or cold throughout the week!
• Health benefits: Apples are nutritious, while ginger and cinnamon offer soothing properties that can help you feel better.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each one plays an important role in bringing out the wonderful flavors of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha).

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (Sweet, firm, preferably organic apples such as Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh)
• 10 cups water
• 2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar
• 4 inch (55 grams) Ginger (preferably organic)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add more spices: Experiment by adding cloves or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Try different sweeteners: Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup to give it a unique twist.
• Infuse with citrus: Add slices of lemon or orange for a refreshing zing that complements the sweetness of the apples.
• Make it fruity: Toss in other fruits like pears or peaches for additional flavor dimensions.

How to Make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Step 1: Chop the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter them and remove the cores—there’s no need to peel! Keeping the skin adds extra nutrients and color to your tea.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can make this delicious tea either in an Instant Pot or on the stove. For the Instant Pot method, simply combine the chopped apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water in the pot. Lock the lid in place and cook at high pressure for 18 minutes. If you’re using the stovetop method, mix all ingredients in a stock pot. Bring to a boil before lowering heat and simmering until everything is soft.

Step 3: Transfer to a Pitcher

Once cooked, it’s time to strain your tea! Place a fine mesh sieve over your pitcher or jar. Carefully pour the contents from your cooking pot into the sieve. Press down on those soft apples with a spoon to extract every bit of juice while leaving behind any solids.

Step 4: Cool Down

Let your apple tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it up in a pitcher or jar. This step helps enhance all those lovely flavors as they mingle together.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Now comes the best part—pour yourself a warm cup of this comforting Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). Savor it hot, cold, or at room temperature—whatever suits your mood!

Pro Tips for Making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Making this delightful tea is a breeze, but a few simple tips can take your experience to the next level!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet and firm varieties like Gala or Fuji. These apples not only add sweetness but also infuse the tea with delicious, fruity flavors.

• Peel Not Needed: There’s no need to peel the apples! Keeping the skin on enhances the flavor and nutritional value while saving you time in preparation.

• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. You can start with less and add more if you desire a sweeter tea.

• Experiment with Spices: While ginger and cinnamon are traditional, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for an extra layer of warmth and complexity in flavor.

• Make Ahead & Store: This tea stores well in the fridge for up to a week. Make a big batch so you can enjoy it hot or cold anytime you need a cozy pick-me-up!

How to Serve Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Serving this warm apple tea can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ways to present your Saegwa Cha that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint can add a refreshing contrast to the warm spices, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Thin Apple Slices: Float thin slices of fresh apple on top of your tea for an appealing visual touch and extra apple goodness.

Side Dishes

• Korean Rice Cakes (Tteok): These chewy rice cakes come in various flavors and textures, making them a perfect complement to the sweet warmth of Saegwa Cha.

• Honey Roasted Nuts: A handful of honey-roasted almonds or walnuts provides a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the smoothness of the tea.

• Spiced Cookies: Enjoy your tea alongside gingerbread or cinnamon cookies for an extra dose of comfort. The spices will harmonize wonderfully with your drink.

• Seasonal Fruit Platter: Serve sliced seasonal fruits like pears or oranges that provide a refreshing balance to the warm, spiced tea.

Now that you’re equipped with tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to brew yourself a comforting cup of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon! Enjoy every sip!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the apple tea to cool completely before storing.
• Pour the tea into a clean pitcher or glass jar.
• Seal tightly and refrigerate; it will keep well for up to one week.

Freezing

• Pour cooled apple tea into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal containers tightly and label them with the date.
• Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For reheating, pour the desired amount into a saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir occasionally until warmed through; do not boil to maintain flavor.
• Alternatively, use a microwave: heat in intervals, stirring between each, until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha).

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sweet apples like Gala or Fuji are preferred, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties. Just ensure they’re firm enough to hold their shape during cooking.

How does Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) benefit my health?

This comforting tea combines the natural sweetness of apples with the soothing properties of ginger and cinnamon. Together, they can help boost your immune system while providing warmth during chilly days.

Can I adjust the sweetness of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Yes! You can easily adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preferences. Start with less sugar and add more if you prefer a sweeter drink.

Is Korean Apple Tea suitable for kids?

Definitely! This delightful drink is not only safe but also nutritious for kids. They’ll love its sweet flavor without any caffeine!

Final Thoughts

Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is more than just a drink; it’s a warm hug in a cup! This recipe holds special memories from my grandma’s kitchen, making it even more dear to my heart. I hope you find joy in preparing this soothing beverage as much as I do. Enjoy every sip, whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or simply treating yourself. Happy brewing!