Name: Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 lbs sweet apples (Gala, Fuji, or McIntosh); 10 cups water; 2 Tbsp brown sugar; 4 inches fresh 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, look no further than Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)! This delightful beverage is a cherished recipe passed down from my Korean grandma, who always knew how to make you feel better, especially during those chilly days. With its comforting blend of sweet apples, spicy ginger, and aromatic cinnamon, this tea is perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also comes packed with health benefits. Whether you sip it hot on a rainy day or enjoy it chilled in the summer, this tea will surely become a beloved addition to your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm cup of comfort ready in no time.
Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the sweet taste of apple combined with the warmth of ginger and cinnamon!
Make-ahead convenience: This tea keeps well in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Health benefits: Ginger and cinnamon are known for their soothing properties, making this tea not just delicious but also good for you.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it hot, cold, or at room temperature—there’s no wrong way to sip!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is a breeze! You’ll find that they are all simple and wholesome. Here’s what you need:

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

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

Add citrus zest: A bit of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavors even more.
Use different sweeteners: Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar if you’re looking for an alternative sweetness.
Mix in other fruits: Toss in some pears or berries along with the apples for an exciting twist!
Spice it up: For extra warmth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves.

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

Step 1: Chop the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter and core them—no need to peel! Keeping the skin adds flavor and nutrients to our tea.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can choose between using an Instant Pot or cooking on the stovetop. For an Instant Pot, add the chopped apples along with sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and water. Lock the lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 18 minutes. If you prefer stovetop cooking, combine all ingredients in a stock pot. Bring to a boil then lower the heat and simmer until the apples are soft—about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Transfer and Strain

Once cooked, it’s time to transfer your lovely apple mixture into a pitcher. Use a fine mesh sieve over the opening of your pitcher or mason jar to catch any debris. Pour slowly so that all those delicious bits stay contained while pressing gently on the apples with a spoon to release their juices.

Step 4: Cool Down

Let your apple tea cool completely at room temperature before sealing it up in a pitcher or glass jar. This will help preserve its fresh flavor!

Step 5: Enjoy!

Now comes the best part—pour yourself a cup of this delightful Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). Whether served hot, cold, or at room temperature, you’re sure to savor every sip!

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

Making this delightful tea is simple, but a few tips can take your Saegwa Cha to the next level!

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji. Their natural sweetness enhances the tea’s flavor and ensures a deliciously comforting drink.
Fresh Ginger is Key: Using fresh ginger instead of powdered gives your tea a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Plus, fresh ginger contains more beneficial compounds that support your immune system!
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. You can also substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Steeping Time Matters: Allowing the tea to steep off the heat for an additional 10 minutes maximizes flavor extraction from the ingredients, resulting in a richer taste.
Experiment with Spices: While ginger and cinnamon are traditional, don’t be afraid to explore other spices like nutmeg or cloves for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.

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

Serving your Korean Apple Tea can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this warm beverage beautifully.

Garnishes

Apple Slices: Thinly sliced apples can add a fresh look and hint at the main ingredient.
Cinnamon Dust: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top enhances aroma and adds a touch of elegance.
Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can provide a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the warm flavors.

Side Dishes

Rice Cakes (Tteok): These chewy snacks can be enjoyed alongside your tea. They’re subtly sweet and complement the flavors beautifully.
Honey-Glazed Nuts: A mix of almonds or walnuts coated in honey adds crunch and pairs well with the warmth of the tea.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers freshness that balances out the rich flavors of Saegwa Cha.
Savory Pancakes (Jeon): These Korean pancakes filled with vegetables are perfect for dipping into a warm cup of apple tea, providing a savory contrast to its sweetness.

Enjoy your cozy moments with this heartwarming drink! Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re simply craving something soothing, Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is sure to bring comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. With its delightful flavors and soothing warmth, it’s a comforting drink you can sip on any time.

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover tea into a tightly sealed pitcher or glass jar.
Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Remember to give it a good stir before serving, as some ingredients may settle.

Freezing

Pour cooled apple tea into ice cube trays for easy freezing.
Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a sealed freezer bag or container.
Use within 2-3 months for the best flavor; simply pop a cube into hot water when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

To reheat, pour the desired amount of tea into a pot over medium heat.
Stir occasionally until warmed through, but do not boil to preserve flavors.
Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.

FAQs

Have questions about making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon? Here are some common queries!

What is Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is a warm beverage made from simmered apples, ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon, and black peppercorns. It’s known for its soothing properties and deliciously sweet flavor.

Can I adjust the sweetness of my Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon?

Absolutely! You can reduce or increase the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preferences. If you prefer it less sweet, start with less sugar and adjust gradually.

Is Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon healthy?

Yes! This tea is packed with antioxidants from apples and anti-inflammatory properties from ginger. It’s a great way to stay hydrated while enjoying its health benefits.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon?

You could add additional spices like nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth. A splash of lemon juice would also brighten the flavors beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me! Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon is not just a drink; it’s a warm hug in a cup that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need comfort. Enjoy making this special beverage for yourself or share it with loved ones. Happy sipping!