Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink that warms your heart and soothes your soul, then Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is just what you need! This delightful tea is my go-to remedy on chilly evenings or when I’m feeling under the weather. Its sweet apple flavors combined with the zesty warmth of ginger and the comforting scent of cinnamon make it not just a drink, but a hug in a mug.

Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this tea brings everyone together. Imagine sharing stories around the table while sipping on this comforting beverage! It’s easy to prepare and packed with health benefits, making it a cherished recipe in my home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious tea in no time!
• Health benefits: Packed with ginger and apples, this tea can help boost your immune system while providing warmth.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet taste of this tea. It’s perfect for everyone!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare a large batch to enjoy throughout the week. Just store it in the fridge and serve warm or cold as desired.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it hot, cold, or at room temperature—this drink suits every preference!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each one plays an important role in creating that comforting flavor profile we all love.

• 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

The beauty of Korean Apple Tea is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add more spices: Enhance the flavor by adding nutmeg or clove for an extra kick.
• Try different apples: Experiment with various apple types to find your favorite blend of sweetness and tartness.
• Infuse with citrus: Add slices of lemon or orange during cooking for a refreshing twist.
• Sweeten naturally: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener.

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

Step 1: Chop Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter them and remove the cores. No need to peel them; their skins add extra nutrients and flavor!

Step 2: Instant Pot Directions

If you’re using an Instant Pot, add the chopped apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water into the cooking pot. Lock the lid in place and cook at high pressure for 18 minutes. Once finished, manually release the steam. This method locks in flavors beautifully!

Step 3: Stove Top Directions

For those who prefer traditional methods, combine the same ingredients in a stock pot. Cover it up and bring everything to a boil. Then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the apples are soft. Keeping it covered allows all those lovely aromas to mingle!

Step 4: Transfer to a Pitcher

Grab a pitcher or mason jar. Place a fine mesh sieve over its opening so you can catch any debris as you pour. Carefully pour the tea from your pot into the pitcher while pressing down on the apples with a spoon to extract even more juice.

Step 5: Cool

Let your freshly made tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it up in containers for storage.

Step 6: Enjoy

Now comes the best part! Pour yourself some Korean Apple Tea into your favorite cup. It’s delightful hot or chilled—perfect for any occasion!

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

Making Korean Apple Tea is simple, but a few tips can ensure you get the most flavor and health benefits from your brew!

• Choose the right apples: Using sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji will enhance the natural sweetness of the tea and provide a delicious base flavor.

• Use fresh ginger: Fresh ginger offers a more robust flavor compared to dried. It also adds beneficial compounds that can help soothe colds and boost your immune system.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on your personal preference and the sweetness of the apples, feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar. You can even use honey or maple syrup as alternatives!

• Let it steep longer: For a more intense flavor, allow the tea to steep for an additional 10–15 minutes after cooking. This will pull out even more of those lovely cinnamon and ginger notes.

• Store properly: Make sure to cool your tea completely before sealing it in a jar or pitcher. This helps preserve its freshness and prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavors.

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

Serving this delightful tea is all about creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages comfort and warmth. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, here are some ideas to elevate your experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a refreshing contrast to the warm spices in the tea, making each sip more invigorating.
• Thin apple slices: Floating a few thin apple slices on top not only looks beautiful but also reinforces the apple flavor in every cup.

Side Dishes

• Korean Rice Cakes (Tteok): These chewy delights come in various flavors and textures. They pair wonderfully with warm beverages like this tea, providing a satisfying contrast.
• Honey Butter Toast: Crispy toast slathered in honey butter is a fantastic sweet treat that complements the warming nature of Saegwa Cha perfectly.
• Vegetable Mandu (Dumplings): Steamed or pan-fried vegetable dumplings bring a savory touch that balances out the sweetness of the tea, making for a delightful snack.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits can be a refreshing addition, enhancing your experience with vibrant colors and flavors alongside your warm drink.

Enjoy crafting this comforting beverage that’s not just delicious but also packed with health benefits!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, saving you time and effort. Here’s how to store any leftovers or prepare it ahead of time:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tea to cool completely at room temperature before transferring.
• Store in a tightly sealed pitcher or glass jar in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to one week.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled tea into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly and label with the date.
• Frozen tea can last up to three months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated tea, simply pour into a saucepan and heat gently over medium-low until warmed through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or place the container in warm water for quicker thawing.
• Enjoy hot, cold, or at room temperature!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use other types of apples for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Absolutely! While sweet and firm apples like Gala, Fuji, or Cortland are recommended for their flavor, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Just remember that sweeter apples will yield a sweeter tea.

How do I adjust the sweetness in Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

You can easily modify the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste. Start with the recommended amount and adjust as needed after tasting!

Is Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) caffeine-free?

Yes! This comforting beverage is entirely caffeine-free, making it an excellent choice for any time of day or night.

Can I add other spices to my Saegwa Cha?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment by adding spices such as star anise or nutmeg. Just be mindful not to overpower the natural flavors of apple, ginger, and cinnamon.

How can I serve Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

You can enjoy it hot, cold, or at room temperature. It’s versatile enough to be served as a refreshing drink during summer or a cozy beverage during cooler months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)! This recipe is not only a delicious way to warm up but also carries wonderful health benefits. Whether you sip it on a chilly evening or enjoy it chilled on a sunny day, it’s sure to bring comfort. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations—I’d love to hear from you! Happy brewing!