Sumac Berries Tea: A Refreshing Drink Rich in Vitamin C
Have you ever noticed those fuzzy, bright red cone-shaped berry clusters growing on shrubs in late summer? That’s staghorn sumac! Sumac is a traditional remedy known for its high vitamin C content and tart, lemony flavor. You can steep the berries into a refreshing tea that’s perfect over ice on a hot summer day.
Equipment
- Lemon juicer (optional).
- Pot or kettle.
- Large 1500 ml mason jar or other glass container.
- Fine mesh strainer.
Ingredients
- 6 cups (1500 ml) filtered water
- 3-4 clusters of sumac
- 2-3 tbsp honey
- ½-1 lemon juiced
- 1-2 teabags optional
- ½ cup berries optional
- Mint or basil leaves optional
Instructions
- Prepare and gather your ingredients. Remove the sumac berries from the main stem and separate the seeds using your hands or scissors. This step is optional, as you can also infuse the clusters whole, but separating the seeds will give you a more flavorful tea. Juice the lemon.
- Bring about 1 cup of filtered water to a boil, then pour it into your large jar. Add honey and stir until fully dissolved. If using tea bag(s), add them to the hot water and steep for a few minutes.
- Add the remaining (cold) water to the jar, followed by the sumac seeds, lemon juice, and berries (if using).
- Place a lid on the jar and shake vigorously. Let the tea infuse overnight at room temperature or for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Shake the jar occasionally to help release the flavors.
- Once the tea is infused to your liking (you can taste-test it), give the jar a final shake, then strain the tea through a fine sieve into another jar.
- Serve over ice and garnish with mint or basil leaves if desired.
Notes
Add black or green tea bags for an extra bold flavor and a gentle boost of caffeine. You can also add your choice of fresh or frozen berries (strawberries, raspberries or blueberries work great) and herbs (mint, basil) into the infusion and/or as a garnish for extra freshness.
Store this tea in the refrigerator for up to a week.