Name: Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 lbs sweet apples (Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh); 10 cups water; 2 Tbsp brown sugar; 4 inches ginger; 2 cinnamon sticks; 2 tsp black peppercorns

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If you’re looking for a cozy drink that warms your heart and soothes your soul, let me share my cherished recipe for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). This delightful beverage is not only delicious but also brings back fond memories of family gatherings and the comforting embrace of my grandmother’s kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a pick-me-up or as a soothing treat during chilly evenings. Plus, it’s full of health benefits that make it an excellent choice year-round!

When I sip on this warm tea, I’m reminded of the care and love that goes into each ingredient. The sweet apples paired with zesty ginger and aromatic cinnamon create a symphony of flavors that feels like a hug in a cup. Whether you enjoy it hot or prefer to cool it down for warmer days, this tea suits any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal steps, you can whip up this delightful drink in no time!
Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, comforting taste of this tea.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick access whenever you crave something warm or refreshing.
Immense health benefits: Packed with antioxidants from apples, ginger’s soothing properties, and the warmth of cinnamon, this tea is as healthy as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (Sweet, firm varieties like Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh work best)
10 cups water
2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar
4 inches (55 grams) ginger (preferably organic)
2 cinnamon sticks
2 tsp black peppercorns

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

Add more spices: Try including star anise or cloves for an extra layer of warmth.
Use different fruits: Pears or even citrus fruits like oranges can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
Make it herbal: Swap out water for herbal tea like chamomile for an even cozier drink.
Sweeten to taste: Adjust the sweetness by adding honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

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 core them—there’s no need to peel! The skins hold so many nutrients and add lovely color to your tea.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can choose between two methods: Instant Pot or stovetop. For the Instant Pot, simply combine all your ingredients—the chopped apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns—and pour in the water. Lock the lid in place and cook at high pressure for 18 minutes.

If you’re using the stovetop method, combine everything in a stock pot instead. Bring it all to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering until the apples are soft; about 30 minutes should do.

Step 3: Transfer to Pitcher

Once cooked, it’s time to transfer your apple tea into a pitcher. Set up a fine mesh sieve over your pitcher or mason jar to catch any debris while pouring. This step helps keep your tea smooth! Gently press down on the softened apples with a spoon now and then to release those delicious juices.

Step 4: Cool Down

Allow your tea to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store it tightly sealed in the fridge if you’re not enjoying it right away.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Pour yourself a cup of this lovely Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). Whether it’s hot on a chilly day or chilled on a warm afternoon, it’s sure to bring comfort and joy!

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

Making this delightful tea is a breeze, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your experience even more!

Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet, firm varieties like Gala or Fuji. They not only provide the perfect flavor but also yield a beautifully vibrant tea.
Let it steep longer: After cooking, allow the tea to sit covered for an extra 10 minutes. This step enhances the infusion of flavors from the ginger and cinnamon, giving you a richer taste.
Experiment with sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter tea, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar to your taste. You can also try honey or maple syrup as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Strain properly: When pouring the tea into your storage container, use a fine mesh sieve to catch any bits of apple and spice. This ensures a smoother beverage that’s pleasant to sip.
Store wisely: Make sure to store your tea in a tightly sealed pitcher or jar in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy it on multiple days!

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

Serving this warm apple tea can turn a simple drink into an inviting experience! Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing both aroma and aesthetic appeal.
Cinnamon powder: A light sprinkle on top just before serving intensifies the spiced flavor and makes it visually appealing.

Side Dishes

Rice cakes (Ddeok): Soft and chewy rice cakes pair wonderfully with the warm spices in the tea. They can be plain or filled with sweet red bean paste for added texture.
Steamed sweet potato: The natural sweetness of steamed sweet potatoes complements the apple tea nicely while providing a nutritious side option.
Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like pears and berries adds freshness and balances out the warming spices of the tea.
Savory pastries: Consider serving flaky pastries filled with vegetables or cheese. Their savory notes create an interesting contrast to the sweetness of Saegwa Cha.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) in style! Whether you’re sipping alone or sharing with friends, this comforting drink is sure to bring warmth and joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, which makes it not just convenient but also a delightful way to stay cozy.

Storing Leftovers

Pour any leftover tea into a clean pitcher or glass jar.
Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator.
Enjoy within 5 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

Allow the tea to cool completely before freezing.
Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Label and date the containers, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For refrigerated tea, simply pour into a pot and warm over low heat until heated through.
For frozen tea, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as desired.
Enjoy warm for a comforting drink or chilled for a refreshing treat!

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delicious beverage, here are some common questions:

Can I make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) without sugar?

Absolutely! You can omit the brown sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup according to your taste.

How long does Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) last in the fridge?

When stored properly in a sealed container, this tea can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator while maintaining its delightful flavors.

What kind of apples should I use for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Sweet, firm apples such as Gala, Fuji, or McIntosh work best. They contribute sweetness and flavor to your tea!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this comforting Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon. It’s not just a drink; it’s a warm hug in a cup that carries memories of home remedies passed down through generations. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, it’s sure to brighten your day. I’m excited for you to try it—happy brewing!