How to Prepare Mormon Tea
Mormon tea, also known as “Gentian Tea” or “Indian Tea,” is a traditional beverage made from the roots of the Mormon tea plant, which is native to the western United States and Canada. This unique drink has been a staple in the LDS (Latter-day Saints) community for generations, offering a refreshing and invigorating alternative to coffee and tea. If you’re interested in trying this distinctive drink, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare Mormon tea.
Ingredients
To make Mormon tea, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– Mormon tea leaves or roots (available at LDS stores or online)
– Water
– Honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Steps
1. Collect the Mormon tea leaves or roots: You can either purchase Mormon tea leaves or roots from a reputable source or harvest them from the wild if you’re familiar with the plant.
2. Boil water: In a pot, bring water to a boil. The amount of water you’ll need will depend on how many servings you want to prepare.
3. Steep the Mormon tea: Add the Mormon tea leaves or roots to the boiling water. Let it steep for about 10-15 minutes. The longer you steep the tea, the stronger the flavor will be.
4. Strain the tea: After steeping, strain the tea to remove the leaves or roots. You can use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth for this purpose.
5. Adjust the sweetness: If desired, add honey or sugar to taste. Stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
6. Serve: Pour the Mormon tea into cups and enjoy. It can be served hot or iced, depending on your preference.
Benefits
Mormon tea is not only a delightful beverage but also offers several health benefits. It is known to aid digestion, boost the immune system, and provide relief from colds and flu symptoms. Additionally, it contains antioxidants and is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusion
Preparing Mormon tea is a simple and enjoyable process that allows you to savor a unique flavor while reaping its health benefits. Whether you’re a member of the LDS community or simply curious about this traditional drink, give Mormon tea a try and experience its refreshing taste for yourself.
