Costa Rican Tea Recipe

I first stumbled upon this Costa Rican tea recipe during a trip to the lush, vibrant country a few years back. It was a warm afternoon, and my host, a lovely woman named Ana, served me a steaming cup of this fragrant, herb-infused tea. 

The blend of fresh lemongrass, ginger, and a hint of mint was like a hug in a mug—comforting, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. I’ve been recreating it at home ever since, tweaking it to capture that same magic. 

This recipe is my take on that traditional Costa Rican tea, perfect for cozy evenings or a midday pick-me-up. It’s simple, wholesome, and brings a little piece of Costa Rica to your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Costa Rican Tea Recipe

This Costa Rican tea is a delightful blend of fresh, aromatic ingredients that come together in minutes, offering a burst of tropical flavor with every sip. It’s naturally caffeine-free, making it ideal for any time of day, and its soothing qualities can help you unwind or recharge. 

The combination of lemongrass, ginger, and mint creates a refreshing yet calming drink that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Packed with natural, health-boosting ingredients.
  • Perfect for sipping hot or chilled over ice.
  • Customizable to suit your taste preferences.

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Ingredients For Costa Rican Tea

You’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients to make this Costa Rican tea. Most are easy to find at your local grocery store or garden.

  • 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass, trimmed and chopped
  • 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 10-12 fresh mint leaves
  • 4 cups (1 liter) of water
  • 2-3 tablespoons of honey (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1 lemon, sliced (optional, for extra zest)

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

This recipe requires basic kitchen tools you likely already have. Here’s what you’ll need:

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Costa Rican tea is straightforward, but a little attention to detail makes all the difference. Follow these steps for a perfect cup every time.

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping your fresh ingredients. Rinse the lemongrass stalks under cold water to remove any dirt. 

Trim off the tough, woody ends (about 1-2 inches or 2.5-5 cm from the bottom) and the top third of the stalk, which is usually dry. 

Use the back of your knife to gently bruise the stalks, then chop them into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces. This helps release their flavor. 

Peel the ginger with a spoon or knife, then slice it thinly. 

Wash the mint leaves and set them aside. If using a lemon, slice it into thin rounds.

2. Boil the Water

Pour 4 cups (1 liter) of water into a medium saucepan. Place it on the stove over medium-high heat and bring it to a gentle boil. 

You want a steady boil, not a rolling one, to avoid evaporating too much water. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on your stove.

3. Infuse the Flavors

Once the water is boiling, add the chopped lemongrass and sliced ginger to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. 

Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the lemongrass and ginger to release their aromatic oils. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with a fresh, citrusy scent. 

After 10 minutes, add the mint leaves and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the mint, as it can turn bitter if heated too long.

4. Strain the Tea

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Place a fine mesh strainer over a teapot or heat-safe pitcher. Carefully pour the tea through the strainer to remove the lemongrass, ginger, and mint leaves. 

Press gently on the solids with a spoon to extract any remaining liquid. Discard the solids or save them for composting.

5. Sweeten and Serve

If you like your tea sweetened, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of honey while the tea is still warm, adjusting to taste. For a zesty kick, add a slice of lemon to each mug before pouring the tea. 

Serve the tea hot in mugs or let it cool and pour over ice for a refreshing iced tea. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a lemon slice for an extra touch.

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Tips for Success

To make your Costa Rican tea truly shine, keep these tips in mind:

  • Use fresh lemongrass and ginger for the best flavor; dried versions won’t have the same vibrancy.
  • Bruise the lemongrass stalks gently to release their oils without breaking them into tiny pieces that are hard to strain.
  • Don’t overcook the mint leaves, as they can become bitter if simmered too long.
  • Adjust the sweetness gradually; start with less honey and add more to avoid overpowering the natural flavors.
  • If serving iced, chill the tea in the fridge for at least 1 hour before pouring over ice to prevent dilution.

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Serving Suggestions

This Costa Rican tea is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes or moments. Whether you’re sipping it on a quiet morning or serving it at a gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:

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Variations to Try

This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Try these twists to make it your own:

  • Add a pinch of cinnamon during simmering for a warm, spicy note.
  • Swap mint for fresh basil for an earthy twist.
  • Include a splash of coconut milk for a creamy, tropical version.
  • Infuse with hibiscus flowers for a tart, vibrant red tea.

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Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover tea in an airtight container or pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour the desired amount into a saucepan and warm over low heat until hot, stirring occasionally. 

Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the flavor. For iced tea, keep it chilled and serve over ice within 3 days for the best taste.

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Nutritional Facts

Per serving (1 cup/250 ml, without honey):

  • Calories: 5 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Sugar: 0 g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This Costa Rican tea isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with ingredients that offer health perks. From soothing digestion to boosting immunity, the lemongrass, ginger, and mint in this tea bring wellness to every sip. Here are some benefits:

  • Lemongrass: Rich in antioxidants, it may help reduce inflammation and support digestion.
  • Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea properties and ability to boost immunity.
  • Mint: Soothes the stomach and may improve focus and reduce stress.
  • Lemon (optional): High in vitamin C, it supports immune health and adds a refreshing zing.

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FAQs

1. Can I use dried lemongrass instead of fresh?

Fresh lemongrass is best for this recipe because it gives a brighter, more vibrant flavor. However, if you only have dried lemongrass, use about 2 tablespoons and soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before adding it to the pot. The flavor won’t be as intense, but it’ll still work.

2. How can I make this tea caffeine-free?

This Costa Rican tea is naturally caffeine-free since it’s made with herbs like lemongrass and mint. No additional steps are needed—just enjoy it as is!

3. Can I make a larger batch for a crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients, keeping the ratios the same. Use a larger saucepan and extend the simmering time by a few minutes to ensure the flavors fully infuse. Store extras in a pitcher in the fridge.

4. Is this tea safe for kids?

Yes, this tea is kid-friendly, especially without honey for children under 1 year old. The natural ingredients are gentle, but you might want to reduce the ginger for a milder flavor if serving to young kids.

5. Can I serve this tea cold?

Definitely! After straining, let the tea cool to room temperature, then chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Serve over ice with a lemon slice or mint sprig for a refreshing drink.

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Final Thoughts

This Costa Rican tea recipe is like a little vacation in a cup, bringing the vibrant flavors of Central America to your home. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with feel-good ingredients that nourish both body and soul. 

I love brewing a batch on quiet evenings or serving it to friends during a summer get-together—it never fails to spark smiles and conversation. 

Try it out, play with the variations, and make it your own. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so drop a comment below with your thoughts or favorite twists!

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