Butterfly Pea Flower Tea, also known as Wow Tea, is a captivating herbal beverage derived from the vibrant petals of the Clitoria ternatea plant.
This caffeine-free tea is celebrated not only for its striking blue hue but also for its ability to change color when an acidic substance, like lemon juice, is added. Beyond its visual appeal, it boasts a mild, earthy flavor and is rich in antioxidants, making it a delightful and healthful choice for tea enthusiasts.
WOW Tea | Benefits:
Ingredients
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1 teaspoon dried butterfly pea flowers (approximately 5–6 flowers)
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1 cup hot water (around 190°F or 88°C)
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1 teaspoon honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
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1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon or lime juice (for color transformation)
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Ice cubes (optional, for iced tea)
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Lemon slices or mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Water: Heat 1 cup of water to just below boiling, around 190°F (88°C).
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Steep the Flowers: Place the dried butterfly pea flowers in a heatproof cup or teapot. Pour the hot water over the flowers and let them steep for 5–7 minutes. The water will gradually change to a deep blue as the petals release their color.
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Sweeten the Tea: If desired, add 1 teaspoon of honey or your preferred sweetener to the hot tea. Stir well until dissolved.
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Add Citrus for Color Change: To witness the magical color transformation, add 1–2 teaspoons of fresh lemon or lime juice to the tea. The blue tea will shift to a vibrant purple or pink, depending on the amount of citrus added.
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Serve: For hot tea, serve immediately. For iced tea, allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices or mint leaves if desired.
Health Benefits:
Butterfly pea flower tea is not just a visual treat; it also offers several health benefits:
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Rich in Antioxidants: Contains anthocyanins, which help combat oxidative stress.
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Supports Cognitive Function: May improve memory and mental clarity.
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Promotes Skin Health: Its antioxidant properties can contribute to healthier skin.
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Caffeine-Free: An excellent choice for those looking to reduce caffeine intake.
Variations to Explore:
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Iced Butterfly Pea Lemonade: Combine chilled butterfly pea flower tea with lemonade for a refreshing, color-changing beverage.
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Butterfly Pea Mojito Mocktail: Mix the tea with mint leaves, lime juice, and soda water for a fizzy, herbal twist.
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Blue Matcha Latte: Layer the tea with steamed milk and a touch of matcha powder for a creamy, vibrant drink.
Tips for the Best WOW Tea:
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Use Filtered Water: Using filtered water can enhance the clarity and vibrancy of the tea’s color.
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Adjust Steeping Time: Longer steeping times can result in a deeper blue color and a more robust flavor.
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Experiment with Acidity: Varying the amount of lemon or lime juice allows you to control the color change, from a soft lavender to a deep magenta.
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Try Different Sweeteners: While honey is a popular choice, other sweeteners like agave syrup or stevia can be used to suit your taste preferences.
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Garnish Creatively: Adding fresh herbs or citrus slices not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the tea’s flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is Butterfly Pea Flower Tea?
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is a herbal infusion made from the dried petals of the Clitoria ternatea plant. Known for its vibrant blue color, the tea is caffeine-free and offers various health benefits.
2. Why does the tea change color when I add lemon?
The color change occurs due to the pH level of the tea. The butterfly pea flowers contain anthocyanins, which are pigments that change color when exposed to acidic substances like lemon juice.
3. Can I drink Butterfly Pea Flower Tea hot or cold?
Yes, Butterfly Pea Flower Tea can be enjoyed both hot and cold. The color-changing effect is visible in both preparations.
4. Is Butterfly Pea Flower Tea caffeine-free?
Yes, the tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it a suitable choice for those avoiding caffeine.
5. Where can I purchase Butterfly Pea Flower Tea?
Recommended: Sweet Tea | Tips, Tricks, and Flavor
You can purchase high-quality Butterfly Pea Flower Tea from The Pahadi Story’s official website.
Note: For more detailed information and additional recipes, visit The Pahadi Story’s official blog: Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Recipe: Hot, Iced & Creamy Latte