Chinatown Sips: Tea Edition

As we experience the eleventy-thousandth month of spring in Boston (rain, snow, hot, cold, nor’easter) we await the relaxing warmth of summer. Do I hear cackling? We are just about to have a break in this heat wave and you’re talking about the “relaxing warmth of summer?” Okay, so it’s been a minute but stick with me...You get summer colds, too, right? Please, read on…!

In one of those “is it a cold or is it allergies” moments, I found a tea that you must try. This “Eight Treasures” tea begins with red dates, AKA Jujubes. (Not those icky candies that were always in my “to trade” pile at Halloween.) These jujubes are known more broadly as Chinese red dates are the key ingredient in this traditional brew. We see them in our favorite herbalist’s shop, Nam Bac Hong (now on Tyler St.) as well as in Jia Ho the supermarket we also visit on our tours. On my tours, this herbalist shop is always one of the high points for guests.

Eight Treasures Tea

• Jujube or Chinese Red Dates

• Chrysanthemum tea

• Dried Cranberries (or Goji)

• Ginger, one large fresh slice

• Dried citrus peel

• one Whole star anise

• Crystalized ginger or more fresh ginger

• Rock sugar or honey, to taste

Rinse the dried ingredients (including the chrysanthemum tea); snip the dates and remove the pits. Add all ingredients in a smallish pot and bring to boil on the stove. Simmer for an hour or more. Let it sit and steep.

You’ll find this so warm and comforting. And it’s loaded with Vitamin C and anti-inflammatory ingredients.