Looking for a cozy drink to warm up your winter days? Enter yuja tea, a Korean classic that’s as simple as it is soothing. With just two ingredients—honey and lemons—you can create a versatile concoction that’s equal parts comforting and refreshing. Plus, it uses the entire lemon, making it a low-waste, flavor-packed option you’ll want to sip all season long.
What is Yuja Tea?
Yuja tea, also known as yujacha, is a traditional Korean tea often made with citron. But our version swaps in lemons for an equally tangy, aromatic take on this classic. The process involves preserving thinly sliced lemons in honey, creating a sweet, citrusy base that can be used in a variety of ways.
How to Make It:
- Slice lemons thinly, rind and all. The rind provides that signature tartness and slight bitterness, while the fruit and juice bring the sweetness.
- Layer slices with honey in a clean jar. Make sure each layer of lemon is fully coated in honey to preserve the fruit.
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours before using. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together.
How to Enjoy:
- For tea: Scoop a spoonful of the honey-lemon mixture into a mug and top with hot water for a comforting, tangy-sweet drink.
- For a spritz: Add the mixture to a glass and top with seltzer water for a refreshing, fizzy treat.
Whether you’re sipping it warm or chilled, yuja tea is a flavorful way to embrace citrus season and brighten your day.