Rooibos Iced Tea with Lemon and Honey
In short: A caffeine-free, naturally sweet red tea steeped, sweetened with honey, chilled with lemon and served over ice, a South African summer favorite. It takes about 15 min in total and makes 6 servings.
- Prep
- 5 min
- Cook
- 10 min
- Resting
- 2 h
- Total
- 15 min
- Servings
- 6
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 35 kcal
Rooibos, or red bush, is an herbal tea grown almost entirely in the Cederberg region of South Africa's Western Cape. It is naturally sweet and caffeine free, and it makes a golden-red iced tea that stays smooth even when it steeps for a long time. Honey and lemon are the classic additions, and a few mint leaves make it feel fresh. Served ice cold, it is a favorite for hot days and braais.
Instructions
- Put the tea bags or loose tea in a heatproof jug and pour over the boiling water. Steep for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags, or strain out the leaves. Stir in the honey while the tea is hot until it dissolves.
- Add the cold water and lemon juice, then chill for at least 2 hours.
- Fill glasses with ice, pour in the tea and add lemon slices and mint.
Tips
- Rooibos does not turn bitter the way black tea can, so steep it for as long as you like. For a stronger flavor, use more tea rather than a longer steep.
- Add peach slices, strawberries, fresh ginger or a cinnamon stick to the jug while it chills for a fruity or spiced version.
Questions and answers
What does rooibos taste like?
It is naturally sweet and earthy with hints of vanilla and nuts. It has low tannins, so it is smooth and not astringent.
Is rooibos caffeine free?
Yes. Rooibos comes from a South African shrub and contains no caffeine, which makes it a good evening drink.
How long does rooibos iced tea keep?
In a covered jug in the fridge, it keeps for up to 4 days. Add the ice and any fresh fruit just before serving.
How long does it take to make Rooibos Iced Tea with Lemon and Honey?
About 15 min in total: 5 min of preparation and 10 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Rooibos Iced Tea with Lemon and Honey?
About 35 kcal per serving, with 0 g of protein, 9 g of carbohydrates and 0 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 35 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
