Lunch: Tea Liqueur

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey, Green Tea

Health benefits of Tea Liqueur

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Green tea has been found in recent studies to actually reverse insulin resistance, as it increases the number of glucose receptors on cells in key tissues.

Ingredients

6 tablespoons loose tea, such as chai tea with a rooibos base, genmai cha, Earl Grey or jasmine green tea
1 750 ml bottle of vodka
1 cup honey or sugar

Instructions

Add the tea to a 1-quart container with a sealable lid. Pour the vodka in to cover. Cover, and shake gently well to combine. Set aside, shaking gently periodically.
Your infusion should take no more than 10 hours, but possibly less depending on the intensity of flavorings and tannins in your tea. Start tasting within a few hours, and when it reaches a level you like, it's ready.
Meanwhile, make a syrup by combining 1 cup each honey (or sugar) and water in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar (if using) is dissolved, and the mixture is well combined and transparent. Remove from heat and cool completely. (Sugar elevates the intrinsic flavors of the tea, whereas honey brings its own character).
Strain the infusion through a coffee filter. Discard the filter and leaves.
Combine the strained infusion and syrup, and stir or shake to blend. Keep in a sealed glass container until ready to serve. Chill if desired, or serve at room temperature.
As this recipe makes about 5 cups, it also makes a nice gift. Simply pour into attractive bottles, and send your guests home with a little sip to enjoy later.