Preparing lapacho tea is a unique process that differs from steeping many other types of tea, as it requires boiling the tea directly in water. This method ensures that the beneficial properties of the lapacho bark are fully extracted.
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
Before you begin, gather these simple items:
- Lapacho Tea: Ensure you have high-quality lapacho tea, typically available as bark pieces or coarse powder.
- Water: Fresh, clean water is ideal for the best taste.
- Saucepan or Pot: A non-reactive pot suitable for boiling.
- Strainer: To separate the tea leaves from the liquid after steeping.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Follow these steps to brew a perfect cup of lapacho tea:
- Measure Ingredients: For one litre of water, use one soup spoonful of lapacho tea. Adjust the quantity proportionally if you are making more or less tea.
- Combine and Boil: Place the measured lapacho tea and water into a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the tea simmer gently for five minutes. This simmering stage is crucial for extracting the tea's essence.
- Steep: After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the lapacho tea to steep for an additional fifteen minutes. This resting period further enhances the flavour and potency.
- Strain and Serve: Once the steeping time is complete, carefully strain the tea to remove the bark pieces. Your lapacho tea is now ready to be served and enjoyed.
Quick Reference Table
For your convenience, here's a summary of the proportions and timings:
| Component | Quantity / Duration |
|---|---|
| Lapacho Tea | 1 soup spoonful |
| Water | 1 litre |
| Simmering | 5 minutes |
| Steeping | 15 minutes |
By following these instructions, you can easily prepare a soothing and flavorful cup of lapacho tea right in your home.
