This holiday season, we’re delighted to bring you another Christmas recipe from Elise Pulbrook, MasterChef semifinalist and cookbook creator. Elise’s Chamomile Blossom Panna Cotta adds a festive touch to your table, highlighting Tea Drop’s Chamomile Blossoms, available individually and in our Wellness Brews and Restful Retreat Gift Packs as part of our limited-edition Christmas Collection, crafted to bring calm and warmth to the season.

Imagine a luscious panna cotta that’s light, creamy, and elegantly infused with chamomile, paired with delicately poached apricots. With its beautiful aroma and soft, floral flavors, this dish is perfect for a holiday dessert, spooned out with fresh or poached seasonal fruit for a delightful finish.

Chamomile Blossoms Panna Cotta Recipe

Serves: 8 | Prep time: 10-15 minutes plus 30 minutes infusing | Setting time: 6 hours

Ingredients:

• 150ml full cream milk
• 850ml thickened cream
• 5 heaped tablespoons Tea Drop Chamomile Blossoms
• 100g honey (orange blossom honey is ideal)
• 4 gelatine leaves (from a pack where 15 leaves weigh 25g)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, chamomile blossoms, and honey. Bring to a gentle heat, stirring occasionally to submerge the chamomile. Just before boiling, turn off the heat and let the mixture infuse for 30 minutes.

2. Soak the gelatine leaves in cold water for 3 to 5 minutes until softened.

3. Reheat the infused mixture until it’s nearly boiling. Remove from heat and strain one cup into a heatproof bowl. Squeeze out the gelatine leaves and whisk into the warm liquid until dissolved. Add back the remaining strained liquid and discard the tea blossoms.

4. Stir the mixture over a bowl of iced water to cool. Pour into a 1L fluted dish or individual moulds. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours.

5. To unmould, dip the bottom of the mould in hot water for 5 seconds and turn onto a plate. Serve with chamomile-poached apricots or fresh berries.

Chamomile-Poached Apricots Recipe

 

Ingredients:

• 500ml water
• 250g sugar
• 2 heaped tablespoons Tea Drop Chamomile Blossoms
• 1 vanilla pod (optional)
• 500g apricots, halved and stoned

Instructions:

1. Place apricot halves in a clean, heatproof jar.

2. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, chamomile, and vanilla. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5–10 minutes to infuse.

3. Strain the syrup over the apricots, discarding chamomile and vanilla pod, then seal the jar. Let cool, and refrigerate for at least 1 day to deepen flavours.

 

Sugar, spice, and everything ice! 

Looking for a summer treat? These tea infused ice cream pops are perfect!

What you need

• 350ml heavy cream
• 150ml milk
• Our suggested teas for infusion - 3tbp of Matcha or  50g/20 teabags of Chamomile Blossom or 35g/12 teabags of Malabar Chai
• 150g sugar
• 4 egg yolks
• 1.5tsp vanilla extract for matcha ice cream
• 2tbp honey for chamomile ice cream

The only difference in ingredients will be the infusion of tea.

How to make Matcha Ice Cream

1. Using a saucepan heat the milk.
2. Add sugar and Matcha to hot milk and stir.
3. In a separate heat-proof bowl, whisk the egg yolks together.
4. Then slowly pour the warm milk into the egg yolks and continue to whisk till mixture thickens. 
5. Note: Make sure the milk is not too hot when pouring over eggs and that you keep whisking on.
6. Place this in the freezer for 5 hours.
7. In a separate bowl add heavy cream, vanilla extract and whip together till soft peaks form.
8. Now take out the mixture from the freezer and whip together with the cream using an electric hand mixer.
9. Place back in the freezer overnight or at least 8 hours.

How to make Chamomile Ice Cream

1. Using a saucepan heat milk.
2. Add sugar and honey to hot milk and stir.
3. In a separate heat-proof bowl, whisk the egg yolks together.
4. Remove pan from heat, add the Chamomile Blossoms tea. Let it steep for 10 minutes, then strain milk into a clean pan.
5. Then slowly pour the warm milk into the egg yolks and continue to whisk till mixture thickens.
6. Place this in the freezer for 5 hours.
7. In a separate bowl add heavy cream and whip till soft peaks form.
8. Now take out the mixture from the freezer and whip together with the cream using an electric hand mixer.
9. Place back in the freezer overnight or at least 8 hours.

How to make Chai Ice Cream

1. Using a saucepan heat milk.
2. Add sugar to hot milk and stir.
3. In a separate heat-proof bowl, whisk the egg yolks together.
4. Remove pan from heat, add the Malabar Chai tea. Let it steep for 10 minutes, then strain milk into a clean pan.
5. Then slowly pour the warm milk into the egg yolks and continue to whisk till mixture thickens.
6. Place this in the freezer for 5 hours.
7. In a separate bowl add heavy cream and whip till soft peaks form.
8. Now take out the mixture from the freezer and whip together with the cream using an electric hand mixer.
9. Place back in the freezer overnight or at least 8 hours.

Scoop the ice cream into popsicle molds if you want them to be fun pops. Either way they are delicious and a great way to beat the heat this summer!

When the temperature drops, a piping hot cuppa is the perfect way to warm up from the inside out.  There are many basic ingredients that to incorporate them into our diet on a day-to-day basis and enjoy as a delicious and healthy drink.

Here are our top 10 ingredients that are easily accessible with our range of wellness tea blends and can help our immunity and overall well-being to cope with the seasonal changes and related health conditions.

Lemongrass

You need cold relief, but you also want to get on with your day. The solution? Lemongrass. Lemongrass consists of long stalks made up of tightly wrapped fibrous layers. It belongs to the same general family as maize and bamboo. The flavor profile is primarily the lemon note against a mildly herbaceous background.

Warm up this winter with a tasty mug of Lemongrass Ginger tea. A refreshing blend infusion of zesty lemongrass and spicy ginger balanced with rosehip and hibiscus for a refreshing and calming brew

 

Chamomile

Chamomile flowers look like daisies and make one of the most popular caffeine-free tea options for unwinding and relaxing. From the aroma to the taste, the floral notes of chamomile shine through in a refreshing way. It has a powerful antioxidant that activates the brain receptors and encourages a restful night of sleep, when you are having trouble sleeping due to a sore throat and stuffy

Try our perfect blend of Chamomile Blossoms, rose petals and lavender buds to give you a good night's rest this winter

Peppermint

Peppermint is another herb that has been around for ages, spanning cultures. People from the ancient Greeks to modern-day Moroccans drink peppermint tea to cleanse the palate and soothe the tummy.

Our premium Peppermint Tea is hand crafted and hand sorted with only the freshest peppermint leaves. It’s packed in small batches for superior flavour and freshness. Taste the difference today.

Lemon Myrtle

Lemon Myrtle is a refreshingly citrusy tea with menthol undertones and hints of spice. Offering a soothing experience to drive away the blues and calm a sore throat, this lemony herb has been a pantry staple for those who love a strong dose of citrus zing.

Experience the fresh flavours and citrusy zing of our Lemon Myrtle Tea. 

Moringa

Winter is the time to give your immune system a little boost and moringa, aka the miracle tree, will give it exactly the type of boost it needs. Traditionally used to help combat malnutrition, this protein and mineral-rich plant is gaining in popularity in wellness circles but we’re letting you in on the secret now. It’s full of vitamins, minerals and detoxifying properties to help you feel your best.

Our Moringa Tea Range, a winter selection focused on promoting wellness in different ways through each blend's unique combination of ingredients - with a primary focus on the Moringa Leaf, a natural superfood that will be your saving grace this winter. 

Matcha

Made from stone-ground green tea leaves, matcha is packed with benefits that you need to sail through winter - antioxidants, polyphenols and caffeine. Best of all, unlike a cup of coffee, a simple dose of matcha will give you a calm boost of energy and focus.

Get a healthy kick of pure green energy with our pure organic matcha tea.

Rooibos

Rooibos tea is truly unique, made from a bush native to (and only found in) South Africa. Perhaps rooibos’ biggest claim to fame is its unique antioxidant content. Specifically, it contains at least two health-enhancing compounds (aspalathin and alpha hydroxy acid) that do not exist in any other natural source that you can ingest. It’s also the only tea that provides quercetin, a powerful weapon against fighting free radicals in the body.

Want to tackle those spring sniffles head on? Then indulge in a hot cuppa from our delicious rooibos teas.

Turmeric

A flowering plant from the ginger family, turmeric is a trending spice known for its bright orange colour and earthy, warm flavour. Used in everything from yummy curries to soothing face masks, this super ingredient is thought to treat tummy troubles and improve the look of skin. No wonder it’s on our list!

Boost immunity and reduce inflammation during this winter season with our Turmeric tea.

Ginseng

This probably isn’t your first run-in with ginseng. A staple in ancient Chinese medicine, it’s one of the world’s most popular herbal remedies.  Tea Drop’s Ginseng Oolong also works miracles on taste buds. It is sweet, strong and carries a strong, rewarding aftertaste. 

Ginger

When it comes to ginger, there’s a lot to love. Popular for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, this ancient spice is believed to help relieve nausea, soothe the tummy and boost your defenses against colds and viruses. It’s warm, spicy taste feels like the kick in the pants your system probably needs. So warm up this winter with our ginger teas.

Healthy tea, healthy me

There you have it. Our pick on the 10 best ingredients to indulge in this winter. Included in our some of our finest and freshest teas to help your body fight flu and colds this winter.

We think its safe to say everyone loves a sweet bite of something after dinner. Matcha is known for its distinctive aroma and flavour. So we brought our love for matcha and white chocolate and made our version of matcha truffles. You can never go wrong with a truffle or two - or an entire box. We are not judging. 

Ingredients (aprx. 20-25 serves)

• 100ml heavy cream
• 2 tbsp Tea Drop Matcha Powder
• 250g white chocolate, chopped fine
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

Topping Ideas (optional)

• Chocolate coating white/dark/milk
• Chocolate sprinkles
• Chopped nuts
• Coconut flakes

How to make

In a heat-proof bowl add heavy cream, vanilla extract and matcha powder and whip together.

note : add matcha powder using a fine mesh strainer to make sure there are no clumps.

Add the chopped chocolate to the bowl and melt over simmering hot water at very low heat. Stir to become a uniform colour.

Refrigerate at least 4 hours.

Use an ice cream scoop and portion out truffle onto parchment paper.
Roll each truffle between your palms till you create a perfect ball, don’t worry our hands got messy too.
If the truffles get too soft don’t worry, place in the fridge for 10 minutes.

Coat truffle with preferred topping (this is optional).

Enjoy!

 

As the temperatures start to rise, many of us look for ways to stay cool and refreshed. One of the best ways to do so is by sipping on a glass of iced tea. Iced tea is a classic summer drink that has been around for generations. However, there are so many different types of tea to choose from, and it can be challenging to know which one is the best for making iced tea. In this article, we will share with you the best tea for iced tea, how to infuse them, and some delicious recipes to try out.

What is Iced Tea

Iced tea is a refreshing and flavourful drink that is perfect for hot summer days. It's made by brewing tea and then chilling it with ice. Iced tea can be served plain or with added flavors such as lemon, honey, or mint. Iced tea is a popular and healthy drink, and there are many different varieties to choose from.

The Best Tea for Iced Tea - Black, Green, and Herbal Infusions

The best tea for iced tea is a matter of personal preference. However, there are three types of tea that are commonly used. These are black tea, green tea, and herbal infusions.

Black tea is the most popular tea used to make iced tea. It has a robust flavour and can hold up well to the addition of sweeteners and other flavours. Some popular black teas for iced tea include Ceylon black tea, Darjeeling, and Earl Grey.

Green tea is lighter and more delicate tea than black tea. It has a slight vegetal flavour and is often used to make iced tea that is a bit more refreshing. Some popular green teas for iced tea include Jasmine, Sencha, and Dragonwell.

Herbal tea is not technically tea, but rather an infusion of herbs, fruits, and flowers. It's a great option for those who want a caffeine-free alternative to traditional tea. Some popular herbal teas for iced tea include mint, chamomile, hibiscus and various fruit teas.

Benefits of Drinking Iced Tea

In addition to being a refreshing drink, iced tea also has several health benefits. Fresh brewed iced tea is always better than carbonated drinks and processed juices. It will keep you hydrated and it’s a great source of antioxidants, which can help boost metabolism. Iced tea also contains less caffeine than coffee, making it a great alternative for those looking to reduce their caffeine intake. Additionally, the goodness of fruits in the tea and garnishing helps keep the immune system and skin healthy.

Infusing Iced Tea with Fruits and Herbs

One of the best things about iced tea is that it's incredibly versatile. You can infuse it with fruits and herbs to create a unique and flavourful drink. Some popular fruits and herbs to add to iced tea include lemons, oranges, strawberries, raspberries, mint, and basil. To infuse your iced tea, simply add the fruit or herbs to the tea while it's steeping. You can also add the fruit or herbs directly to the glass for a more intense flavor and as beautiful garnishing.

5 Delicious and Creative Iced Tea Recipes

Southern Sweet Tea: This is a classic iced tea that is sweet and refreshing. To make it, brew our South Melbourne Breakfast black tea and add sweetener of your choice. Add lemon slices and chill with ice.

Green Tea with Mint and Lemon: This is a refreshing and healthy iced tea that's perfect for a hot summer day. Brew Japanese Sencha green tea, add fresh mint leaves, and stir in honey. Chill with ice and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Lemongrass and Ginger Iced Tea: This iced tea is packed with flavour and antioxidants. Brew Lemongrass Ginger tea, add fresh apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and a handful of mint leaves, and sweeten with honey. Chill with ice and garnish with a slice of orange.

Strawberry Basil Iced Tea: This iced tea is fruity and herbaceous. Brew English Breakfast black tea, add fresh strawberries and basil leaves, and sweetener of your choice. Chill with ice and garnish with a strawberry and a sprig of basil.

Peach Iced Tea: This is a classic iced tea with a sweet and fruity twist. We use oolong tea for this recipe. Brew Sweet Peach tea, add sliced peaches, and sweeten with honey. Chill with ice and garnish with a peach slice.

How to Make Iced Tea with Fruit Infusions

• Brew your tea using your favourite method.
• While the tea is still hot, add your preferred fruit or herb. You can also add sweeteners of your choice at this point.
• Let the tea steep for a few minutes until it's cool enough to add ice.
• Pour the tea into a glass full of ice and garnish.

Tips to Make Perfect Iced Tea Every Time

• Use loose leaf & brew it twice as strong. Eg: If you normally use 1 tsp of Lemongrass Ginger for a hot tea, use 2 tsp for your cold tea. And if you use a standard 230 ml of hot water, drop that down to 150 ml of hot water.⁠
• Go beyond standard green or black teas. Try fruit teas, rooibos teas and flavoured teas. Try different flavours. You never know what you will enjoy. ⁠
• Sweeten with juice or lemonade. Great alternative to sugar.⁠
• Go wild with fruit. ⁠
• Play with herbal infusions. Like fruit, herbs bring a lot of flavour. ⁠
• Just experiment. Unlike coffee, with iced tea if there’s a flavour you like, you can replicate it. You can have fruity, floral, savory, sweet, umami.

Your Perfect Iced Tea Recipe Awaits You!

Iced tea is a classic summer drink that is perfect for staying cool and refreshed. Whether you prefer black, green, or herbal infusions, there's a perfect iced tea recipe out there for you. Try infusing your tea with fruits and herbs for a unique and flavourful twist. Remember to use high-quality tea leaves and fresh ingredients for the best results. Cheers to a refreshing summer ahead!

Try out one of our iced tea recipes and let us know which one is your favourite!