Do you want to recreate Wedang Jahe, a traditional and soothing ginger tea from Indonesia? This popular beverage can be served either hot or cold and is believed to boast an assortment of health benefits and wellness advantages. It's the perfect addition to your self-care routine and an excellent way to fight off illness!
Key Takeaways
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Wedang Jahe is a traditional ginger tea from Indonesia, often drunk to ward off illness and soothe the body.
- Core ingredients of Wedang Jahe include ginger, in addition to other herbs and spices like lemongrass, cardamom pods, and clove.
- Wedang Jahe can be served either hot or cold, depending on your wellness needs.
Keep reading to learn more.
See Related: What Is Tamarind And How Do You Use It?
What Is Wedang Jahe?
Wedang Jahe is a traditional ginger tea that originated in ancient Indonesia.
Indonesia typically has two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Wedang Jahe is often brewed at the start of the rainy season in Indonesia, as it can be used to warm the body and soothe the soul.
It is believed to be able to ward off flu symptoms that can come with humid and cooler weather.
Wedang Jahe is a traditional Indonesian drink that is built around ginger. However, this aromatic beverage also contains a beautiful blend of natural ingredients like herbs and spices that create a robust and flavorful cup. Each ingredient has unique health benefits that make Wedang Jahe a wonderfully healing and restorative beverage.
Feel free to brew some at home or share it with friends or family.
Fun fact: The Javanese term “Wedang” means ‘hot drink,’ and “Jahe” means ‘ginger.’
Ingredients
There are a variety of natural ingredients that are often infused to make classic Wedang Jahe. The core ingredient is ginger, in addition to palm sugar and lemongrass.
- 150 grams fresh ginger, peeled & sliced
- 280 grams palm sugar or coconut sugar (You can also use granulated cane sugar or honey.)
- 3 lengths lemongrass, bruised & chopped
- 3 pandan leaves, tied
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 6 cardamom pods
- 12 cloves
- Cinnamon (optional)
- 6 cups water
Bonus: How To Make Clove Tea: Recipes & More
Preparations
To start preparing your Wedang Jahe, make sure your ginger is peeled and sliced, your lemongrass is bruised and chopped, and your cardamom pods are cracked.
Methodology
- In a non-stick pan, dry fry the ginger slices until they are fragrant.
- Transfer the ginger to a large saucepan.
- Add the other ingredients, including palm sugar, lemongrass, pandan leaves, black peppercorns, cardamom pods, cloves, and water.
- Bring to a boil and cover the pot.
- Reduce heat and continue to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the palm sugar is dissolved.
- Remove from the heat and allow to steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain and serve immediately, or allow to cool and serve cold. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wedang Jahe in English?
Wedang Jahe is an Indonesian term that loosely translates to 'ginger tea.'
Is curcumin the same as ginger?
No. Curcumin is an active component in turmeric. The active components of ginger include gingerol, Shogaol, and Zerumbone.
Can I make a second batch with the same ingredients?
Sure! Simply return all of the ingredients to your saucepan and add 3 quills of cinnamon. Add 4 cups of water and a couple of spoonfuls of palm sugar, and return to a boil. Repeat steps 4 through 7 above.
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