Aveda Comforting Tea Recipe (Copycat)

Licorice root: This root adds a natural sweetness and a distinctive flavor to the tea.

Peppermint leaves: These leaves provide a refreshing and cooling taste, balancing the sweetness of the licorice root.

Sweet fennel seeds: These seeds contribute a mild, sweet, and slightly earthy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the tea.

To enhance the flavor of your tea, lightly crush the sweet fennel seeds before adding them to the water. This will help release their essential oils, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful brew.

• licorice root - Substitute with anise seed: Anise seed has a similar sweet and slightly spicy flavor profile, making it a good alternative to licorice root.

• licorice root - Substitute with star anise: Star anise provides a comparable licorice-like taste and can be used in similar quantities.

• peppermint leaves - Substitute with spearmint leaves: Spearmint has a milder mint flavor but can still provide the refreshing quality needed in the tea.

• peppermint leaves - Substitute with lemon balm: Lemon balm offers a citrusy mint flavor that can add a unique twist to the tea.

• sweet fennel seeds - Substitute with anise seeds: Anise seeds have a similar sweet and aromatic flavor, making them a suitable replacement for fennel seeds.

• sweet fennel seeds - Substitute with caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a slightly different flavor but can still provide a sweet and earthy note to the tea.

• Allow the tea to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavor.
• Transfer the cooled tea into an airtight container. Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers work best to maintain the tea's freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The tea will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• For freezing, pour the tea into ice cube trays. This allows you to thaw only what you need.
• Once frozen, transfer the tea cubes into a zip-top freezer bag. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
• To enjoy, simply thaw the desired number of tea cubes in the refrigerator or add them directly to hot water for a quick brew.

• Pour the leftover tea into a small saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature. This method preserves the delicate flavors of the licorice root, peppermint leaves, and sweet fennel seeds.
• If you're in a hurry, transfer the tea to a microwave-safe mug and heat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Be sure to cover the mug with a microwave-safe lid or a small plate to prevent splatters.
• For a more traditional approach, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place the tea in the top pot and heat it slowly, stirring occasionally. This method ensures even heating without scorching.
• If you have a tea kettle with a temperature control feature, pour the tea into the kettle and set it to a low temperature. This will gently reheat the tea while maintaining its aromatic qualities.
• For those who prefer a more modern touch, use an electric milk frother with a heating function. Pour the tea into the frother and select the heating option. This method is quick and efficient, perfect for busy mornings.

• Saucepan: A deep cooking pan used to bring the water to a boil and simmer the ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the precise amounts of licorice root, peppermint leaves, and sweet fennel seeds.

• Strainer: Utilized to separate the tea leaves and seeds from the liquid when pouring the tea into the teapot.

• Teapot: A vessel to hold and serve the strained tea.

• Stovetop: The heat source for boiling the water and simmering the tea mixture.

• Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the ingredients while they simmer in the saucepan.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the licorice root, peppermint leaves, and sweet fennel seeds in advance to save time when you start brewing.

Use a tea infuser: Place the herbs in a large tea infuser or tea bag for easy removal after simmering.

Batch brew: Double or triple the recipe and store extra tea in the fridge for quick reheating.

Simmer with a lid: Cover the saucepan while simmering to maintain heat and reduce cooking time.