Traditional Dried Fruit Tea: A Warming Morning Beverage

Ingredients

• 4-5 dried figs
• 4-5 premium dates
• 4-5 prunes (dried plums)
• 500ml (2 cups) water

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Glass jar for storage
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dried Fruits

• Thoroughly rinse all dried fruits
• Cut the dates, figs, and prunes into small pieces
• Remove any stems or tough parts

1. Cooking Process

• In a medium saucepan, bring 500ml of water to a boil
• Add the chopped dried fruits
• Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes
• Remove from heat and let steep for 5 minutes

1. Straining

• Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer
• Gently press fruits to extract maximum flavor
• Let cool slightly before serving

Pro Tips for Perfect Dried Fruit Tea

• Choose high-quality, preservative-free dried fruits
• Store dried fruits in an airtight container before use
• Cut fruits into similarly sized pieces for even cooking
• Don’t skip the straining step – it ensures a smooth beverage
• Consider using filtered water for the best taste

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a cinnamon stick or star anise while simmering
• Extra warmth: Include a small piece of fresh ginger
• Different dried fruits: Try adding dried apricots or raisins
• Cold version: Chill and serve over ice in summer
• Natural sweetness: Add a teaspoon of honey if desired

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store prepared tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave when ready to serve
• Pre-cut fruits can be stored in an airtight container for quick preparation
• Freeze leftover tea in ice cube trays for iced tea variations

Nutritional Information

(Per 1 cup serving, approximate values)

• Calories: 95
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Natural Sugars: 18g
• Iron: 2% DV