🍃 Lemon Balm Iced Tea with Basil Seeds
🌿 Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
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4–5 tablespoons dried lemon balm leaves (or a generous handful of fresh leaves)
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4 cups water
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1–2 teaspoons dried basil seeds (also called sabja or tukmaria)
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Juice of 1 lemon (optional for extra citrus)
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Honey or agave syrup to taste (optional)
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Ice cubes
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Lemon slices or mint for garnish (optional)
🧊 Instructions
1. Brew the tea
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Bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
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Remove from heat, add lemon balm leaves, and cover.
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Steep for 10–15 minutes for full flavor.
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Strain and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until cold.
2. Soak the basil seeds
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Place basil seeds in 1/2 cup water.
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Let them soak for 10–15 minutes until they swell and form a gel-like coating. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping.
3. Assemble the iced tea
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In a pitcher or glass, combine chilled lemon balm tea with lemon juice and sweetener (if using).
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Stir in the soaked basil seeds.
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Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint.
💡 Tips & Variations
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For a floral note, add a few lavender buds or chamomile flowers when steeping.
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Add cucumber slices or ginger for an extra refreshing twist.
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Want it sparkling? Use half tea, half sparkling water.
This drink is naturally calming, cooling, and perfect for summer. Want a version with green tea, or a mocktail twist? Just let me know!