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Clove Tea Recipe

Updated on 4 min read

Recipe Card

Clove Tea (Simple Herbal Infusion)

A warm, aromatic herbal tea made with whole cloves, traditionally enjoyed for comfort, digestion, and overall wellness.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 1 cup
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Dietary: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Caffeine-Free

Ingredients

  • Whole cloves
  • Water
  • Honey or jaggery (optional)
  • Lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Add water to a small saucepan.
  2. Add whole cloves to the water.
  3. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
  5. Turn off heat and let steep for 1–2 minutes.
  6. Strain into a cup.
  7. Add honey or lemon juice if using. Stir and serve warm.

Additional Notes

  • Use whole cloves, not ground, for a clean and balanced flavor.
  • This tea is traditionally consumed in small quantities due to the strength of cloves.
  • Naturally caffeine-free and suitable for most diets.

Brief Introduction (After Recipe Card)

Clove tea is a simple herbal infusion made by simmering whole cloves in water. Known for its warm, spicy aroma, this tea has been used traditionally in many cultures as a comforting drink, especially during colder months or after meals. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a bold flavor despite its simplicity.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide (Detailed Process)

Step 1: Preparing the Cloves

Measure whole cloves carefully. Cloves are very potent, and a small amount goes a long way.

Tip: Using more cloves than recommended can make the tea bitter and overly strong.

Step 2: Simmering

Bring the water and cloves to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to simmer. This allows the clove oils to infuse slowly without overpowering the tea.

Tip: Avoid rapid boiling for too long, as it can dull the flavor.

Step 3: Steeping and Straining

After simmering, allow the tea to rest briefly before straining. This final steep enhances aroma without increasing bitterness.

Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips

Whole Cloves

Cloves are dried flower buds with a strong, warming flavor. They are traditionally valued for their aromatic compounds.

Selection Tip:
Choose whole cloves that are dark brown, plump, and fragrant. Old cloves lose potency.

Optional Add-ins

  • Honey or Jaggery: Adds sweetness and balances spice.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and a mild citrus note.

Substitutions

  • No honey: Use maple syrup or omit entirely.
  • No lemon: Drink plain or add a slice of fresh ginger for variation.

Equipment Alternatives

  • No saucepan: Use an electric kettle and steep cloves directly in hot water for 10 minutes.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations

  • Add ½ inch fresh ginger while simmering for extra warmth.
  • Add 1 small cinnamon stick for a deeper spice profile.
  • Add 1 crushed cardamom pod for a slightly sweet aroma.

Dietary Variations

  • This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and caffeine-free.
  • Suitable for intermittent fasting when consumed without sweeteners.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm after meals.
  • Pair with light snacks like plain biscuits or toast.
  • Best enjoyed in the evening or on cool mornings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Information

Storage

  • Best consumed fresh.
  • Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in a covered container.

Reheating

  • Reheat gently on the stovetop.
  • Avoid microwaving for long periods to preserve flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

  • You can simmer a larger batch and refrigerate, then reheat single servings as needed.

Quality Notes

  • Flavor becomes stronger over time; dilute with hot water if needed.

Nutrition Information (Estimated, Per Cup)

  • Calories: 5
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Sugar: 0 g (without sweetener)

Dietary Highlights

  • Caffeine-free
  • Low-calorie
  • Traditionally used as a digestive herbal drink

Allergen Information:
Free from common allergens (contains no dairy, nuts, or gluten).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I drink clove tea every day?
A: Clove tea is strong and is best enjoyed in moderation. One cup occasionally is typical.

Q: Can I use ground cloves instead of whole cloves?
A: Whole cloves are recommended. Ground cloves make the tea cloudy and difficult to strain.

Q: Why does my tea taste bitter?
A: Too many cloves or excessive boiling time can cause bitterness. Reduce quantity or simmer time.

Q: Can I drink this cold?
A: Yes. Let it cool and serve over ice, diluted slightly with water if needed.

Optional Personal Notes

This clove tea recipe is inspired by traditional home remedies often prepared during cold seasons or after heavy meals. Its simplicity is what makes it special—just a few cloves can completely transform hot water into a deeply aromatic drink. Over time, small adjustments in clove quantity can help you find your perfect balance.

Reader Interaction & Call-to-Action

Try this clove tea recipe and adjust the strength to your preference.
If you make it, share how you enjoyed it or what variations you tried.
Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or pass it along to someone who loves herbal teas.

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