Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink to warm your spirit and soothe your soul, 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 delightful tea is not only comforting but also packed with health benefits, making it an ideal remedy for those chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or sharing it with family during gatherings, this drink always feels like a warm hug in a cup.

What truly makes this tea special is the blend of sweet apples, aromatic ginger, and spicy cinnamon. Each ingredient brings its own charm, creating a flavor profile that dances on your palate. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious batch in no time.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this warm, soothing drink.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—hot or cold!
• Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants from apples and anti-inflammatory properties from ginger.
• Deliciously Comforting: The perfect beverage to sip while snuggled up on the couch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. The combination of apples, ginger, and cinnamon creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s brewing. 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 inch (55 grams) Ginger (preferably organic)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to make adjustments based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add some citrus: Squeeze in some fresh lemon or orange juice for a zesty twist!
• Mix in other spices: Try adding cloves or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Sweeten differently: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for natural sweetness.
• Infuse with herbs: Add fresh mint leaves during steeping for a refreshing herbal note.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter and core them without peeling; leaving the skin on helps retain nutrients and adds flavor. The more apple goodness you keep in there, the tastier your tea will be!

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can make this tea using either an Instant Pot or on the stovetop. Both methods are straightforward and yield fantastic results!

Instant Pot Directions

Add the chopped apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water into the cooking pot. Lock the lid into place and cook at high pressure for 18 minutes. When it’s done cooking, manually release the steam. Carefully remove the pot insert—it’s going to smell heavenly!

Stovetop Directions

In a large stock pot, combine all the ingredients as you would in an Instant Pot. Cover it up and bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes until those apples become soft.

Step 3: Transfer and Strain

Grab yourself a pitcher or mason jars! Place a fine mesh sieve over the opening of your pitcher. Pour the apple tea slowly through the sieve to catch any apple bits or spices. Press down gently on those soft apples with a spoon to extract all their juicy goodness.

Step 4: Cool Down

Allow your delicious tea to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it into sealed containers. This step allows flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Now comes my favorite part—time to enjoy! Pour yourself a warm cup of this soothing Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). Whether hot, cold, or at room temperature—each sip brings comfort that wraps around you like a soft blanket.

Happy sipping!

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

Crafting the perfect cup of Korean Apple Tea is a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help elevate your brewing game!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet and firm varieties like Gala or Fuji. They not only impart a natural sweetness but also ensure your tea has a rich apple flavor.

• Fresh ginger is key: Using fresh ginger rather than powdered will provide a more vibrant, zesty kick to your tea, enhancing its soothing properties and aroma.

• Don’t rush the steeping: Allowing the mixture to steep after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully. This extra time yields a more robust taste that’s comforting and satisfying.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. If you prefer a less sweet tea, start with less sugar and add more as needed.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon and ginger are traditional, you can also try adding cardamom or cloves for an extra layer of warmth and complexity in flavor!

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

Serving up this delightful tea is as enjoyable as making it! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, here are some ideas:

Garnishes

• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top adds an aromatic touch and enhances the visual appeal.
• Apple slices: Thinly sliced apples can be placed in each cup for a refreshing garnish that complements the flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Korean Rice Cakes (Tteok): These chewy delights come in various flavors and textures, making them a fun addition that contrasts nicely with the warmth of the tea.
• Sweet Potato Chips: Crunchy and slightly sweet, these chips offer a delightful texture that pairs well with the smoothness of your drink.
• Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing counterpart to the spiced apple tea, balancing out its warmth with bright notes.
• Savory Korean Pancakes (Jeon): These pancakes are packed with veggies or seafood, creating a savory bite that complements the soothing qualities of Saegwa Cha.

Enjoy serving this heartwarming beverage alongside tasty treats for an unforgettable experience!

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 ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container or pitcher.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• If you notice any separation, simply stir before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the tea to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for portioning.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
• Enjoy hot or at room temperature!

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sweet and firm apples like Gala or Fuji are recommended, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Just ensure they are not overly tart.

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

This delightful tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Enjoy it cold, hot, or at room temperature during that time!

Is there a way to make this tea less sweet?

Certainly! You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. Adjust according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and comforting Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). It’s not just a drink; it’s a hug in a mug that warms both body and soul. Enjoy this delightful recipe as you create memories around your kitchen table. Happy brewing!