How to Make Green Tea with Lemon (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Green Tea with Lemon is a refreshing beverage enjoyed across Malaysia, celebrated for its light, zesty taste and health benefits. This drink is a popular choice among Malaysians, especially during the hot afternoon or as part of a healthy breakfast. Traditionally, green tea is infused with local ingredients such as pandan leaves and a splash of fresh lemon, embodying the multicultural nature of Malaysian cuisine. Lemongrass, or 'serai', is sometimes added for an aromatic twist, reflecting the nation's love for bold yet balanced flavors. In Malaysian homes and cafés, Green Tea with Lemon is served both hot and cold, making it versatile for any occasion. Its subtle bitterness from green tea, combined with the citrusy zing of lemon and natural sweetness from madu (honey), makes it a delightful and invigorating beverage. Whether enjoyed as a morning starter or a midday pick-me-up, this drink aligns with local preferences for healthy, natural ingredients. The cultural practice of blending herbs like pandan and serai with tea is a nod to Malaysia's rich culinary heritage, where wellness and taste harmoniously coexist.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons or 2 bags Green tea leaves or tea bags (locally available)
- 500 ml Water (filtered)
- 1 whole Lemon (freshly sliced)
- 2 teaspoons Madu (honey) (as a natural sweetener)
- 1 leaf Daun pandan (pandan leaf) (knotted)
- 1 stalk Serai (lemongrass stalk) (lightly bruised)
- as needed Ice cubes (for serving chilled)
- a few Mint leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Bring water to a boil in a kettle or pot
Bring water to a boil in a kettle or pot. Add the knotted pandan leaf and bruised lemongrass stalk for a fragrant aroma.
Step 2 · Once boiling
Once boiling, remove from heat and add green tea leaves or tea bags. Let steep for 3-4 minutes, depending on desired strength.
Step 3 · Discard the pandan leaf
Discard the pandan leaf, lemongrass, and tea leaves/bags. Strain the tea into a clean jug or teapot.
Step 4 · Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the tea
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the tea, slice the remaining half into thin rounds for garnish.
Step 5 · Stir in madu (honey) to taste while the tea is still warm
Stir in madu (honey) to taste while the tea is still warm. Mix well to dissolve.
Step 6 · To serve hot
To serve hot, pour into cups and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves. For a cold version, let the tea cool, add ice cubes, and serve chilled.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Green Tea with Lemon recipe is a healthy choice because it uses natural, minimally processed ingredients. With no refined sugar and the addition of herbal aromatics, it supports hydration, boosts metabolism, and provides antioxidants. It fits well into vegetarian and vegan diets, is gentle on the stomach, and can easily be adapted for specific nutritional needs. The use of madu (honey) as a sweetener keeps it lower in calories and free from artificial additives.
A note on tradition
Green Tea with Lemon, though not originally traditional, has become a staple in Malaysian homes and cafés, especially as part of the modern wellness trend. Local additions like pandan and serai reflect the Malaysian penchant for infusing international drinks with indigenous flavors. This beverage is enjoyed across all ethnic groups, particularly during festive gatherings or as a healthy accompaniment to a light meal. Its simplicity and adaptability make it popular from Penang to Johor.