Let's be honest - winter is cosy, but it also brings along colds, sore throats and general sluggishness. And when the chill sets in, there's nothing more comforting than a warm cup of tea. While India has an incredible variety of soothing teas, Korea offers some fantastic alternatives with unique flavours and immunity-boosting benefits. If you love Korean cuisine, these traditional teas deserve a spot in your winter routine. Here are seven Korean teas that will help keep you warm and healthy this season.
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Here Are 7 Korean Teas To Boost Immunity:
1. Yuja-cha (Citrus Tea)
Yuja-cha is a vibrant tea made with yuzu marmalade and hot water. Think of it as a citrusy version of lemon-ginger tea but with floral notes. Packed with vitamin C, it's great for soothing sore throats and fighting colds. Just stir a spoonful of yuja marmalade into hot water, mix, and enjoy this caffeine-free winter warmer.
2. Saenggang-cha (Ginger Tea)
Saenggang-cha is Korea's answer to ginger tea-spicy, warming, and perfect for chilly days. Made by simmering fresh ginger slices in water, it helps with digestion and circulation while also easing inflammation. Add a dash of honey for extra comfort and sip away those winter blues.
3. Daechu-cha (Jujube Tea)
Jujubes, or Korean red dates, may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to health benefits. This naturally sweet tea is loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, making it great for your immune system. Brew dried jujubes with ginger and cinnamon, and let the flavours infuse, strain, and sip for a relaxing end to a cold day.
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4. Omija-cha (Five Flavours Tea)
Omija means "five flavours," and this tea lives up to its name with a unique mix of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent notes. Made from dried magnolia berries, it's rich in antioxidants and great for respiratory health. With its bold red colour, this tea is as stunning as it is beneficial. Enjoy it hot in winter for a soothing, warming drink.
5. Ssanghwa-cha (Herbal Tea)
This traditional herbal tea is made with a blend of medicinal ingredients like Korean angelica root, cinnamon, and jujube. Known for its immune-boosting properties, it has a deep brown colour and a slightly bitter taste, often balanced with honey. Some even add an egg to enhance its nutritional value. This tea is a winter staple for fighting off colds and fatigue.
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6. Nok-cha (Green Tea)
Korean green tea isn't just a daily favourite-it's also packed with immunity-boosting antioxidants like catechins, which help fight infections and reduce inflammation. Drink it plain or with honey for a well-rounded flavour. A simple, effective way to keep your immune system strong throughout winter.
7. Bori-cha (Barley Tea)
Bori-cha is a caffeine-free tea made with roasted barley, offering a nutty flavour that's both warming and refreshing. It's loaded with antioxidants and supports circulation, making it a winter essential. Plus, it's gentle on the stomach, so you can sip on it all day long without a second thought.
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Which of these Korean teas are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments!