You can make your drinks healthier with this flower
What's the story
Chrysanthemum flowers aren't just for decoration! They've been a staple in Asian medicine and teas for centuries.
With a cooling effect on the body and benefits like reducing inflammation and boosting heart health, they also add a unique flavor to drinks.
This article shares five creative ways to use these flowers in your drinks, showcasing their versatility and benefit.
Basic brew
Classic chrysanthemum tea
The simplest and most common way to consume chrysanthemum is in the form of tea.
To make it, all you need to do is steep 10 to 15 dried chrysanthemum flowers in boiling water for approximately five minutes.
What you get is a delicately sweet, floral-scented tea with a beautiful golden color.
You can drink it hot or cold, so it's perfect for any time of the year.
Sweet Chill
Chrysanthemum and honey iced tea
For a sweeter variation, try adding honey to your cooled chrysanthemum tea.
Simply steep the flowers in hot water, allow it to cool, then stir in honey to taste.
Refrigerate until chilled. Serve this delicious drink over ice for a refreshing experience that combines the floral notes of chrysanthemum with the natural sweetness of honey.
Hydration boost
Chrysanthemum infused water
Steeping chrysanthemum flowers in water creates a subtly flavored infusion that's perfect for sipping throughout the day.
Simply add fresh or dried flowers to a pitcher of cold water and let it infuse for at least four hours or overnight in the fridge.
This floral-infused water is a refreshing way to stay hydrated on hot days or anytime you want a break from plain water.
Mixology magic
Chrysanthemum syrup for mocktails
Making chrysanthemum syrup is a fancy way to add flavor to your mocktails.
In a saucepan, mix one cup of sugar, one cup of water, and one-fourth cup of dried chrysanthemums.
Heat it to boiling, then simmer until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Strain out the flowers, let the syrup cool, then use it in your favorite mocktail recipes.
Creamy delight
Chrysanthemum milk tea
For those who like their drinks on the creamy side, chrysanthemum milk tea is a delicious option.
Start by brewing chrysanthemum tea as described in "basic brew." Once you've removed the flowers, add milk (dairy or plant-based) to taste and sweeten with honey if you wish.
This drink combines the floral notes of chrysanthemums with the creaminess of milk, making a soothing beverage ideal for unwinding in the afternoon.