Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

If you’re looking for a cozy drink that warms your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is truly one of my favorites. This delightful concoction is not just a drink; it’s a hug in a cup, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. I learned this recipe from my Korean grandma, who always swore by its soothing properties.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this tea makes any occasion feel special. The combination of sweet apples, spicy ginger, and aromatic cinnamon creates a lovely balance that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting warmth: The blend of ginger and cinnamon provides a gentle heat that soothes your throat and warms your spirit.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike love this drink, making it perfect for all ages.
• Simple preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delicious tea without any fuss.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare a big batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week—hot, cold, or at room temperature!
• Health benefits: This tea is packed with natural ingredients known for their health-boosting properties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) are simple and wholesome. You probably have most of them at home already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs (900 grams) Apples (Sweet, firm varieties such as Gala, Fuji, Cortland, Ambrosia, or McIntosh are best)
• 10 cups water
• 2 Tbsp (25 grams) brown sugar
• 4 inch (55 grams) Ginger (preferably organic)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

Variations

This recipe is flexible! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add more spices: Try including star anise or cloves for an extra layer of flavor.
• Sweeten naturally: Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar to change up the sweetness.
• Mix in citrus: Add slices of lemon or orange for a zesty twist that brightens the flavors.
• Infuse with herbs: Toss in some mint leaves or basil for an unexpected herbal note.

How to Make Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Step 1: Chop the Apples

Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Quarter and core them—there’s no need to peel! Keeping the skin on adds extra nutrients and color to your tea.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cooking Method

You can choose between using an Instant Pot or a stovetop method depending on your preference.

Instant Pot Directions:

Add the chopped apples, sliced ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, and water into the pot. Lock the lid in place and cook on high pressure for 18 minutes. When done, carefully release the steam manually—it’s like letting out all that steamy goodness!

Stove Top Directions:

Combine all the ingredients in a stock pot. Cover it up and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer covered until those apples turn soft—about 30 minutes will do! Afterward, keep it covered off the heat for an extra 10 minutes to really steep those flavors.

Step 3: Strain the Tea

Place a fine mesh sieve over your pitcher or mason jar. Slowly pour your apple tea into it while keeping the apples and cinnamon sticks inside the cooking pot. Press gently on the apples with a spoon to release their juices.

Step 4: Cool It Down

Let your tea cool completely at room temperature before transferring it into a tightly sealed pitcher or jar. This step helps maintain its freshness when stored.

Step 5: Time to Enjoy!

Pour yourself a comforting cup of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). Whether you sip it hot during chilly evenings or enjoy it cold on warmer days, this drink is sure to bring warmth to your heart!

Pro Tips for Making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Making Korean Apple Tea is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it’s perfect every time!

• Choose the right apples: Using sweet, firm apples like Gala or Fuji will enhance the tea’s natural sweetness and flavor profile, making your drink even more delicious.

• Slice ginger thinly: Thin slices of ginger will infuse more flavor into the tea, providing that lovely warmth and spiciness that complements the apples beautifully.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. You can even substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a different twist!

• Let it steep: Allowing the tea to steep after cooking helps intensify the flavors. The extra time lets all the ingredients meld together perfectly for a richer taste.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is traditional, you can add other warming spices like nutmeg or cloves to create your unique version of this comforting beverage.

How to Serve Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)

Serving Korean Apple Tea can be as charming as its preparation! This drink not only warms your body but also invites cozy conversations. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful beverage.

Garnishes

• Fresh apple slices: A few thinly sliced apples placed on the rim of your cup add a refreshing touch and make for a lovely presentation.

• Cinnamon stick: A whole cinnamon stick in each cup not only looks appealing but also enhances the aroma as you enjoy your tea.

Side Dishes

• Korean Rice Cakes (Tteok): These chewy treats come in various flavors and textures, making them a perfect accompaniment to the warm sweetness of apple tea.

• Honey Butter Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits drizzled with honey butter provide a rich and savory contrast that pairs wonderfully with the refreshing apple tea.

• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or gouda adds a creamy texture that balances out the spiciness from ginger, creating an elegant snack pairing.

• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing palate cleanser that complements the warm flavors of Saegwa Cha beautifully.

Enjoy sipping on your homemade Korean Apple Tea while indulging in these delightful pairings!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy its comforting warmth whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tea to cool completely at room temperature.
• Transfer the cooled tea into a pitcher or glass jar.
• Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 5-7 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled tea into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Reheating

• For warmed tea, pour your desired amount into a pot.
• Heat gently on the stove over low to medium heat until warmed through; do not boil.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha).

Can I use different types of apples for Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Absolutely! While sweet and firm apples like Gala or Fuji are recommended, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will yield a sweeter tea.

How long does Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha) last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this tea can last for about 5-7 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays!

Can I adjust the sweetness of Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha)?

Yes! If you prefer a less sweet drink, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar used. You can also omit it entirely if you want a more natural taste from the apples.

Is it possible to make this tea without black peppercorns?

Certainly! The black peppercorns add a unique spice to the tea but are optional. Feel free to leave them out if you’re not a fan or don’t have any on hand.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Korean Apple Tea with Ginger and Cinnamon (Saegwa Cha). It’s not just a drink; it’s a warm hug in a cup that brings back cherished memories. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something comforting, this recipe is sure to bring warmth to your day. Enjoy making this wonderful beverage—cheers to your health and happiness!