At its core, Ice Lemon Butterfly Pea Tea starts with a chilled infusion made from butterfly pea flowers. This infusion boasts a natural, mesmerizing blue hue. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is then added, not only for its flavour but also for a magical colour transformation.
The acidity of the lemon juice reacts with the butterfly pea tea, causing a delightful colour shift from blue to vibrant shades of purple, pink, or magenta. This transformation happens right before your eyes, adding an element of surprise and fun.
The taste of Ice Lemon Butterfly Pea Tea is a perfect balance of subtly earthy and pleasantly tart. The butterfly pea flowers provide a delicate, slightly grassy flavour, while the lemon adds a refreshing zestiness. Sweeten to your liking with honey, simple syrup, or your preferred sweetener.
How to Make Ice Lemon Butterfly Pea Tea
Yields: 1 serving
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon dried butterfly pea flowers
- 1 cup (240ml) hot water (not boiling)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Sweetener to taste (honey, simple syrup, etc.)
- Ice
- Optional Garnish: Lemon slices, edible flowers
Instructions
- Make the Infusion: Steep butterfly pea flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the blue color and flavor. Strain out the flowers and chill the tea completely.
- Assemble: Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in the chilled butterfly pea tea.
- Color Change Magic: Squeeze in the lemon juice and watch your tea transform from blue to vibrant shades of purple or pink!
- Sweeten: Add your preferred sweetener to taste. Stir well.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Add lemon slices or edible flowers for a touch of elegance, and enjoy your refreshing drink!
Tips
- Experiment with Colour: Adjust the amount of lemon juice to achieve your desired shade of purple or pink.
- Sweetness Control: Customise the sweetness level to your preference.
- Make Ahead: Prepare a larger batch of the butterfly pea tea concentrate and store it in the refrigerator for quick iced tea throughout the week.
- Flavour Fun: Experiment with adding a sprig of mint, a hint of ginger, or other complementary flavors.
Creative Variations
The beauty of Ice Lemon Butterfly Pea Tea lies in its versatility. Here are some fun ways to elevate your drink experience:
- Sparkling Sensation: For an extra touch of refreshment, top your Ice Lemon Butterfly Pea Tea with a splash of sparkling water, club soda, or your favorite flavored seltzer. The bubbles add a delightful texture and sparkle!
- Fruity Infusions: Transform your tea into a flavor adventure! Muddle fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, add slices of mango, peach, or citrus fruits, and let them infuse into your tea for a burst of natural sweetness and flavor.
- Floral Notes: Introduce a touch of floral fragrance by adding a sprig of fresh lavender or mint to your tea as it steeps. These herbs complement the natural flavors beautifully.
- Butterfly Pea Ice Pops: Take your tea beyond the glass! Prepare a slightly stronger butterfly pea infusion, sweeten it to taste, and pour it into popsicle molds. Freeze and enjoy a vibrant, healthy, and visually stunning treat – perfect for a hot summer day.
