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lemongrass ginger white iced tea served over ice with fresh lemongrass and ginger slices

Lemongrass Ginger White Iced Tea (with Honey)

Light iced white tea infused with fresh lemongrass and gentle ginger warmth. Softly sweetened with honey — clean, aromatic, and unmistakably Asian-inspired.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Drinks
Calories: 35

Ingredients
  

WHITE TEA BASE
  • 1.65 L water
  • 6 item white tea bags Pai Mu Tan or White Peony
BOTANICAL FLAVORING
  • 2 stalks fresh lemongrass outer layers removed; inner part sliced
  • 10-12 g fresh ginger thinly sliced
  • 2-3 tbsp mild honey to taste
TO SERVE
  • item ice
  • item fresh lemongrass stalks cut into short segments
  • item thin ginger slices optional; for garnish

Method
 

  1. Heat the water to 75–80°C (167–176°F), do not boil. Add the white tea bags and steep for 3–4 minutes. Remove the tea bags without squeezing and let the tea cool to lukewarm.
  2. Trim off the dry outer layers and the woody top of the lemongrass. Lightly bruise the stalks with the back of a knife, then slice into 5–6 cm segments. This releases aroma without bitterness.
  3. Add the prepared lemongrass and ginger slices to the warm tea. Let infuse for 8–10 minutes only, just until a clear citrus-herbal aroma and gentle warmth develop. Strain out both promptly to avoid sharpness.
  4. While the tea is still warm, stir in 2 tablespoons of honey until fully dissolved. Taste and add up to 1 additional tablespoon only if needed. Let the tea cool to room temperature.
  5. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until fully cold and integrated.
  6. Fill glasses with ice, pour over the chilled lemongrass ginger white iced tea, and garnish with fresh lemongrass segments and a thin slice of ginger if desired.

Notes

  • Lemongrass should be bright and citrusy, never woody or bitter — bruising, not chopping, is key.
  • Ginger is aromatic, not spicy — if it burns, you steeped too long.
  • Use mild honey so the Asian profile stays clean and focused.
  • White tea must remain present; if it disappears, you overdid the botanicals.
  • Best enjoyed within 24 hours for peak aroma.