Clove tea is a warm, aromatic drink made by steeping dried clove buds in hot water. With its deep, spicy flavor and natural healing properties, this tea is both soothing and invigorating. I like to make it during the colder months or whenever I feel the need for a comforting drink with potential health benefits.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how simple and quick it is to make clove tea, requiring only a few ingredients. It’s naturally caffeine-free, making it a perfect choice for relaxing evenings. The rich, spicy notes provide a cozy feel, and I find it especially helpful when I’m feeling under the weather or need a digestive boost. Whether sipped alone or with a touch of honey, clove tea is a timeless wellness brew.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Whole cloves
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Water
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Optional: honey, lemon, cinnamon stick, or ginger slices for added flavor
Directions
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I bring water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan.
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I add whole cloves (usually about 4–6 per cup) to the boiling water.
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I let them simmer for 5–10 minutes, depending on how strong I want the flavor.
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Once done, I strain the tea into a cup to remove the cloves.
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I often add a bit of honey or lemon for extra taste, depending on my mood.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 cup of tea and takes about 15 minutes from start to finish:
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 12–15 minutes
Variations
I like experimenting with different add-ins to give the tea new dimensions. Adding a small piece of fresh ginger adds warmth and helps digestion. A cinnamon stick brings a sweet-spicy note that pairs beautifully with cloves. Sometimes, I blend cloves with black tea leaves for a stronger, more energizing cup. And if I’m looking for something more citrusy, I add a slice of fresh orange or lemon peel.
Storage/reheating
If I make a larger batch, I store leftover clove tea in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I want to reheat it, I simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat or microwave it for about 1–2 minutes. I try not to boil it again to preserve the delicate flavors.
FAQs
What are the benefits of drinking clove tea?
I often turn to clove tea for its soothing properties. It’s known for aiding digestion, easing sore throats, and even helping with nausea. Cloves have natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds that make this tea a great health support.
Can I drink clove tea every day?
Yes, but in moderation. I enjoy it a few times a week. Because cloves are strong and potent, I like to keep it to one cup per day to avoid overuse.
Should I crush the cloves before brewing?
I usually leave them whole for a milder tea, but crushing them slightly can intensify the flavor. If I want a bolder taste, I gently crush them with a spoon before adding them to the water.
Can I use ground cloves instead of whole?
While I prefer whole cloves for clearer tea and easier straining, ground cloves can work in a pinch. I use a pinch (less than 1/8 teaspoon) per cup and strain well before drinking to avoid sediment.
Is clove tea safe during pregnancy?
I always recommend checking with a healthcare provider first. Cloves in small culinary amounts are generally considered safe, but in concentrated forms like tea, it’s best to get personal medical advice.
Conclusion
Clove tea is one of my favorite go-to drinks for both comfort and wellness. Its spicy aroma, warming qualities, and potential health perks make it a simple yet powerful addition to my tea routine. Whether I’m relaxing in the evening or fighting off a cold, a cup of clove tea always hits the spot.
Print
Clove Tea
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 12–15 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Steeping
- Cuisine: Global
Description
Clove tea is a warm, aromatic drink made by steeping dried clove buds in hot water. With its deep, spicy flavor and natural healing properties, this tea is soothing, invigorating, and perfect for relaxing evenings or when you need a digestive boost.
Ingredients
- Whole cloves (4–6 per cup)
- Water
- Optional: honey, lemon, cinnamon stick, or ginger slices for added flavor
Instructions
- Bring water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan.
- Add whole cloves to the boiling water.
- Simmer for 5–10 minutes, adjusting the time based on desired strength.
- Strain the tea into a cup to remove cloves.
- Add honey, lemon, or other optional flavorings to taste.
Notes
- Whole cloves are recommended for a milder flavor; crush them slightly for a bolder taste.
- Ground cloves can be used, but strain carefully to avoid sediment.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 2
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
