Dried red lotus flowers, also known as Nelumbo nucifera rubra, are a stunning and exotic ingredient used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, as well as in culinary applications. These vibrant flowers have a sweet, floral aroma and a slightly bitter taste, and are believed to have many health benefits.
In Chinese medicine, dried red lotus flowers are thought to improve blood circulation, soothe the digestive system, and promote relaxation. In Ayurvedic medicine, they are believed to have a cooling effect on the body and to help balance the doshas.
Dried red lotus flowers can be used to create a fragrant and flavorful tea, which can be enjoyed on its own or blended with other herbs and spices. They can also be added to desserts, such as puddings and cakes, or used to flavor savory dishes like soups and stews. With their unique flavor and health benefits, dried red lotus flowers are a valuable and versatile ingredient in many kitchens.
How to Make a Red Lotus Flower Tea
Ingredients:
- Dried red lotus flowers
- Water
- Optional: honey or sugar for sweetness, lemon or lime for flavor
Equipment:
- Teapot or saucepan
- Tea strainer or infuser
- Cups or mugs
Instructions:
- Measure out your desired amount of dried red lotus flowers. A general rule of thumb is to use around 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers per cup of water.
- Heat up the water in a teapot or saucepan until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Add the dried red lotus flowers to the hot water, either directly or in a tea strainer or infuser.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the tea steep for around 10-15 minutes. You can adjust the steeping time to your preference – longer steeping will result in a stronger tea.
- Once the tea is done steeping, strain out the flowers using a tea strainer or remove the infuser from the pot.
- If desired, add honey or sugar to sweeten the tea and/or lemon or lime juice for flavor.
- Pour the red lotus tea into cups or mugs and enjoy!
Note: Red lotus tea is known for its relaxing and calming properties, so it is often enjoyed in the evening or before bedtime. You can experiment with adding other herbs or spices, such as chamomile or cinnamon, to create your own unique blends.