Peppermint tea with honey

I started making peppermint tea on a whim one winter afternoon when I had a headache and nothing else sounded appealing. The steam alone felt like it cleared my mind before I even took a sip. Now it's what I reach for whenever I need five minutes of quiet, or when my stomach feels uneasy after a heavy meal. It's become less of a recipe and more of a ritual.

I made this for a friend once who was feeling anxious before a big presentation. She cradled the mug in both hands and said the smell alone made her shoulders drop. We didn't talk much, just sat there sipping, and she later told me it was exactly what she needed. That's when I realized this tea isn't just about taste, it's about the pause it creates.

Ingredients

• Filtered water: Clean water makes a noticeable difference in clarity and taste, especially in something this simple.
• Fresh peppermint leaves: If you can find them, fresh leaves give a brighter, more vibrant flavor than dried, though tea bags work beautifully in a pinch.
• Honey: I prefer raw honey for its depth, but any kind you love will work, just add it after steeping so the heat doesn't destroy its delicate notes.

Instructions

Boil the water gently:

Bring your water to a boil in a small saucepan or kettle, but don't let it rage. A gentle boil protects the peppermint from turning bitter.

Prepare your peppermint:

Place the fresh leaves or tea bags in a teapot or heatproof mug. If using fresh leaves, give them a light bruise with your fingers to release their oils.

Steep with patience:

Pour the hot water over the peppermint, cover, and let it steep for a full 5 minutes. The cover traps the steam and all those essential oils you want in your cup.

Strain and sweeten:

Remove the leaves or bags, then stir in honey until it dissolves completely. Taste and adjust sweetness as you go.

Save

There was an evening last spring when I made this after a long day of gardening. My hands were tired, dirt still under my nails, and the tea tasted like the reward I didn't know I needed. I sat on the porch watching the light fade, and it felt like the day finally settled. That's what this tea does, it marks the end of something and the beginning of rest.

Serving Suggestions

This tea is perfect on its own, but I sometimes add a thin slice of lemon if I want a little brightness, or a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish. On hot days, I let it cool completely and pour it over ice with a squeeze of lime. It transforms into something equally refreshing, just in a different way.

Storage and Reheating

Peppermint tea is best enjoyed fresh, but you can brew a larger batch and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or enjoy it cold. Just don't add honey until you're ready to drink it, especially if serving cold, so it dissolves evenly.

Customizations and Variations

I've made this a dozen different ways depending on my mood. Sometimes I add a cinnamon stick while steeping for warmth, or a few slices of fresh ginger if I'm feeling under the weather. You can swap honey for maple syrup or agave if you prefer, though the flavor shifts slightly.

• Try adding a pinch of dried lavender for a floral, calming twist.
• Steep with a slice of fresh turmeric for an anti-inflammatory boost.
• Use coconut sugar instead of honey for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.

Save

This tea has become my go-to for quiet moments, upset stomachs, and cold nights alike. I hope it brings you the same kind of comfort it's given me, one warm sip at a time.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use peppermint tea bags instead of fresh leaves?

Yes, peppermint tea bags work well and provide the same refreshing flavor. Simply steep as you would fresh leaves.

→ How long should I steep the peppermint?

Steeping for about 5 minutes allows the flavors to develop fully without becoming bitter.

→ Is honey necessary for this blend?

Honey adds natural sweetness and enhances the aroma, but you can adjust or omit it according to your preference.

→ Can I serve this infusion iced?

Absolutely. Let the drink cool and pour it over ice for a refreshing chilled beverage.

→ Are there any allergen concerns?

This blend contains honey and is not suitable for infants under 1 year. Check labels if you have sensitivities.