Looking for more healthy, caffeine-free drinks to enjoy that bring all the coziness and warmth you’re looking for during the holidays? My saffron rooibos tea is a match made in Heaven.
Rooibos is a favorite caffeine-free tea option around the world, and when combined with the healing power of the subtly flavored saffron, you’re left with a deliciously light but complex tea that is easy to finish before you’ve realized you’ve taken more than a couple sips!
Here’s inspiration from my blog to kick your caffeine habit now.
ROOIBOS TEA
The leaves of the rooibos (meaning “red bush”) plant, which is actually a member of the legume family, have been used to make tea in its native South Africa for hundreds of years. Its distinct earthy and slightly sweet flavor has made it a staple with tea aficionados and in caffeine-free households around the world, especially over the last 20 years.
This mineral and antioxidant-rich tea can be a wonderful option for those deciding to quit caffeine – especially those accustomed to black and green tea. Rooibos has a small amount of tannins, which can mimic the mouth feel of green and black teas, helping to ease the transition into a caffeine-free lifestyle. Note that some individuals with sensitive neurological systems may find rooibos tea irritating and, therefore, should avoid it.
SAFFRON
Saffron is an ancient medicinal spice that has been used for thousands of years to bring flavor and color to dishes throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The spice is harvested from a specific species of crocus flower which produces raw saffron, which is then harvested and dried.
Saffron contains several carotenoids (responsible for saffron’s beautiful deep crimson color), which possess anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown saffron to have anti-tumor properties as well. Rich in vitamins and minerals, saffron packs a powerful nutrient-dense boost to traditional dishes in Iran, Spain, India, Pakistan, and Greece. Saffron is known as “the most expensive food in the world” due to the labor-intensive harvesting methods that must be used, but thankfully, a little goes a long way!
Festive Saffron Rooibos Tea
Equipment
- 1 Mug
Ingredients
- 1 tsp Rooibos Tea Organic, if possible
- ¼ tsp Saffron
Instructions
- Bring 16 oz of purified water to boil
- Allow water to cool for up to one minute
- Pour water over rooibos and saffron mixture using a loose tea strainer
- Allow tea to steep for 3-5 minutes (longer steep time will produce a more robust flavor)
- Remove tea from water, cool, and enjoy!
