Description
Yuzu Cha, or Citron Tea, is a traditional Korean citrus preserve made from fresh yuzu fruit and rock sugar. This refreshing and flavorful tea base offers a sweet, tangy taste perfect for blending with hot water to create a soothing beverage that is especially popular during cold seasons. The recipe involves minimal cooking and relies on natural fermentation and infusion over time to develop its signature flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2.2 lbs fresh yuzu (about 12 fruits)
- 2.2 lbs white rock sugar
- ½ cup lemon juice (for sterilizing)
Instructions
- Wash and Juice Yuzu: Thoroughly wash the yuzu fruits under running water to remove any dirt or residues. Cut each fruit in half and squeeze out the juice into a bowl, making sure to remove all seeds to avoid bitterness.
- Mix Juice with Pulp: In a separate bowl, combine the extracted yuzu juice with the pulp from the fruits to prepare a flavorful base.
- Layer with Rock Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, gently layer the yuzu mixture and white rock sugar, stirring lightly to combine without crushing the fruit too much.
- Jar the Mixture: Spoon the combined yuzu and sugar mixture evenly into two sterilized mason jars, then seal them tightly to prevent air from entering.
- Rest and Ferment: Place the jars in a cool, dark place and let them rest for at least 7 days to allow the flavors to meld and the natural sweetness to infuse, turning the jar gently every day for even mixing.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe yuzu for the best flavor.
- Make sure the jars and utensils are sterilized to prevent contamination.
- The longer the mixture rests, the more intense the flavor becomes.
- This citron tea concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
- Serve mixed with hot water as a comforting tea or with cold water for a refreshing drink.
