Well, folks. If this warm, then cold, then warm, then freezing weather has affected you like it has us, your throat is aching and you feel more like cuddling up under a blanket than picnicking in the park. This recipe for Warm Spiced Ginger Tea is the perfect remedy for the where-is-spring blues (see this and other seasonal recipes in The Edible Brooklyn Cookbook).
Warm Spiced Ginger Tea
from Caroline Mak and Antonio Ramos, co-owners of Brooklyn Soda Works
1 quart water
3/4 cup sliced fresh, peeled gingerroot
1 piece star anise
5 cardamom pods
10 whole cloves
Juice from 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
4 tablespoons honey
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot. Add the gingerroot, star anise and the cardamom. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add the cloves and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Turn off the heat, and add the lemon juice and the honey.
2. Strain out the spices and ginger and serve in mugs. You can also use more ginger for an increased spice level, or substitute orange juice for the lemon juice, adding a bit of orange zest along with the cloves.
