Corn Tea Recipe (Oksusu Cha - Korean)

Roasted dried corn kernels: These are the main ingredient for the tea, providing a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. Water: Used to brew the tea and extract the flavors from the roasted corn kernels.

To enhance the flavor of your corn tea, consider using filtered water instead of tap water. This ensures that the natural sweetness and nutty aroma of the roasted corn kernels are not overshadowed by any impurities or strong flavors present in tap water. Additionally, after roasting the corn kernels, allow them to cool slightly before adding them to the boiling water. This helps to lock in the toasty flavor and prevents any potential bitterness.

• roasted dried corn kernels - Substitute with roasted barley: Roasted barley has a similar nutty flavor and can provide a comparable toasty aroma to the tea.

• roasted dried corn kernels - Substitute with roasted brown rice: Roasted brown rice offers a mild, nutty flavor that can mimic the taste profile of roasted corn kernels in tea.

• water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water can add a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the tea while providing additional nutrients.

• water - Substitute with rice water: Rice water, especially from cooked rice, can add a subtle sweetness and a hint of starchiness that complements the roasted flavor of the tea.

• Allow the corn tea to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavor and promote bacterial growth.

• Transfer the cooled corn tea into an airtight container. Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers work well. Make sure the container is clean and dry to maintain the tea's freshness.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The corn tea will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when properly refrigerated. Always check for any off smells or changes in appearance before consuming.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the corn tea. Pour the cooled tea into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. If using ice cube trays, once frozen, transfer the corn tea cubes to a freezer bag for easier storage.

• Label the containers or freezer bags with the date to keep track of how long the corn tea has been stored. Frozen corn tea can last up to 2 months without significant loss of flavor.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen corn tea in the refrigerator overnight or reheat gently on the stove. Avoid using a microwave as it can alter the delicate flavors of the tea.

• If reheating, do so over low heat to preserve the subtle, roasted notes of the corn kernels. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

• For a refreshing twist, serve the chilled corn tea over ice with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint. This adds a delightful, aromatic touch to the beverage.

• Gently reheat the corn tea on the stovetop over low heat. Place the tea in a small saucepan and warm it slowly, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid boiling to preserve its delicate flavor.
• Use a microwave for a quick reheat. Pour the corn tea into a microwave-safe mug or bowl. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.
• For a more traditional approach, use a double boiler. Place the corn tea in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until the tea is warmed through.
• If you have a thermos, fill it with hot water to preheat it, then discard the water and pour in the corn tea. This method keeps the tea warm for an extended period without additional heating.
• For a unique twist, reheat the corn tea and add a splash of milk or honey for a creamy, sweet variation. Warm the tea on the stovetop or in the microwave, then stir in the milk or honey just before serving.

• Dry pan: Use this to roast the corn kernels until they are golden brown and fragrant.

• Pot: This is where you will bring the water to a boil and simmer the corn kernels.

• Strainer: Essential for straining the tea into cups to remove the corn kernels.

• Cups: Use these to serve the hot corn tea.

• Stove: Needed to provide the heat for roasting the corn and boiling the water.

• Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the corn kernels while roasting to ensure even browning.

Pre-roast the corn: Roast a large batch of corn kernels in advance and store them in an airtight container. This way, you can skip the roasting step when you want to make corn tea.

Use a kettle: Boil the water in an electric kettle to save time compared to using a stovetop pot.

Simmer in a slow cooker: Use a slow cooker to simmer the corn tea while you attend to other tasks. Set it on low for 2-3 hours.

Make a large batch: Prepare a large batch of corn tea and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat as needed.