A refreshing and aromatic sweet green tea with fresh spearmint, central to Moroccan hospitality and social life.
Why it's healthy
The foundation of Moroccan Mint Tea is green tea, a rich source of polyphenols, particularly catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds act as powerful antioxidants, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. Fresh spearmint contains menthol, which can aid digestion and soothe an upset stomach. While traditionally served very sweet, the tea itself offers these benefits. The high sugar content is its primary health drawback, contributing empty calories. However, the core ingredients provide a beverage with significant antioxidant potential and traditional digestive properties.
Ingredients
1 tsp Chinese gunpowder green tea
5-7 sprigs fresh spearmint ('nana')
2.5 tsp sugar, or to taste
1.5 cups (360 ml) boiling water
Instructions
Rinse a small teapot with a splash of boiling water to warm it, then discard the water.
Add the gunpowder green tea to the warm pot.
Pour about 1/4 cup of boiling water over the tea leaves, swirl for 30 seconds, then carefully pour out and discard only the water. This cleanses the tea.
Gently bruise the mint sprigs in your hands to release their oils and add them to the pot along with the sugar.
Pour the remaining boiling water into the teapot.
Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes. Do not stir; this keeps the tea from becoming bitter.
To mix and aerate, pour the tea from a height into a traditional tea glass, then pour it back into the pot. Repeat this 2-3 times until a light foam appears.