Jaggery Ginger Tea

Method

1. 1

   About this drink: South India has a wonderful tradition of functional beverages — designed to cool the body, aid digestion or boost immunity. This version features ginger and jaggery. Famous in All Tamil Nadu. The traditional Tamil household cold remedy

2. 2

   Prepare ginger and jaggery: Crush 1 inch fresh ginger. Add to boiling water with 2 tablespoons palm jaggery.

3. 3

   Sweetener: Traditional South Indian drinks use palm jaggery, rock candy or regular sugar. Dissolve sweetener in 2 tablespoons warm water.

4. 4

   Simmer gently: Do not boil vigorously as this destroys delicate flavours.

5. 5

   Add spice: Add traditional South Indian drink spices — dried ginger, cardamom, fennel seeds, pepper or medicinal herbs as appropriate.

6. 6

   Strain: Strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids.

7. 7

   Serve hot in cups.

8. 8

   Taste and adjust: Adjust sweetness, spice and consistency.

9. 9

   Garnish: Garnish with fresh mint, cardamom powder or a pinch of saffron.

10. 10

    Serve: Most South Indian drinks can be stored as concentrates in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.