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Clove Tea

A warm, aromatic beverage made by steeping whole cloves in boiling water. This naturally caffeine-free tea delivers bold, slightly sweet spice with a peppery finish, perfect for any time of day. Ready in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 5
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 8 to 10 pieces whole cloves per cup 16-20 total
  • 2 cups water filtered or fresh
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons honey per cup or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice per cup optional
  • 1 cinnamon stick broken in half (optional)
  • 1/4 inch slice fresh ginger peeled (optional)

Equipment

  • Kettle or small saucepan
  • Measuring spoon
  • Strainer or infuser
  • Two mugs or teacups
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Small cutting board (optional, for crushing cloves)

Method
 

  1. Pull out your whole cloves and inspect them. Fresh cloves should smell strong and aromatic, not musty or faint.
  2. Measure 8 to 10 whole cloves per cup of tea, adjusting based on how bold you like your tea.
  3. Pour 2 cups of fresh, filtered water into your kettle and bring to a full rolling boil at 212°F.
  4. Optional: Gently crush each clove with the side of a knife or in a mortar and pestle to release flavor faster.
  5. Place your strainer or infuser over one or both mugs.
  6. Once water reaches a full boil, carefully pour it over the cloves in the strainer.
  7. Let the cloves steep undisturbed for 5 to 8 minutes. Five minutes for gentler tea, 8 minutes for bolder flavor.
  8. Carefully strain the clove-infused water into your mugs, removing all whole cloves.
  9. Stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey per mug, depending on sweetness preference, along with a few drops of fresh lemon juice if using.
  10. Let cool for about 1 minute, then taste and adjust with more honey or lemon if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Use whole cloves rather than ground for cleaner flavor. Fresh cloves make an enormous difference, so replace your spice jar if cloves smell dull. Steep in boiling water, not just hot water, to properly extract oils. Store leftover tea in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Pair with ginger cookies, fresh fruit, or dark chocolate for best serving experience.