Ginger is nature’s Band-Aid, known for its curative and restorative powers. Te Jenjanm (Haitian ginger tea) has a spicy kick that soothes the throat and warms the body. It’s a favourite drink during the cooler months and every Haitian household has their own version.
Given ginger’s restorative properties, it should come as no surprise that te jenjanm is a traditional remedy for all kinds of physical and emotional ailments. This distinctive ginger tea is made more complex with additions of star anise, lemongrass and cinnamon.
This holiday season, sore throat or not, try sharing a cup of Haitian ginger tea with your friends and family!
Yield: 6 cups of tea
Ingredients:
- 6 cups water
- 3-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and cut into small pieces
- 1 stalk lemongrass, remove outer dry leaves and trim top and bottom
- 3 star anise pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Pinch salt
- Honey, to taste
Steps:
- In a medium pot, over medium heat, heat the water, ginger, lemongrass, star anise and cinnamon sticks.
- Bring the tea mixture to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. If you would like your tea stronger, simmer it longer.
- Strain the ginger tea into cups and add honey to taste. Dilute with additional hot water if you’d prefer a milder version of this tea.
Notes
- Haitian ginger tea is traditionally made with grated ginger for a stronger ginger flavour.
- Some Haitian cooks prefer to use brown sugar in place of the honey for sweetening.
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