Citron tea is a citrus-infused delight that balances tangy yuzu with the smooth sweetness of honey, creating a refreshing and aromatic drink. Whether enjoyed as a warm, comforting beverage on chilly days or transformed into an iced tea for a revitalizing summer refreshment, this recipe is versatile and simple to prepare. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can craft a tea that’s both soothing and bursting with bright citrus flavors, making it a staple for any tea lover’s collection.
Ingredient Breakdown
Yuzu fruit is the key ingredient in this tea, offering a unique citrus flavor that is both tart and slightly floral. When selecting yuzu, look for fruits that are firm, fragrant, and have a slightly dimpled skin, as these are the juiciest and most flavorful. Honey serves as a natural sweetener, complementing the bold citrus notes while balancing the tartness. The type of honey used can affect the final taste—lighter varieties like acacia provide a mild sweetness, while darker options like buckwheat honey add depth and richness. Hot water is essential in drawing out the aromatic oils from the yuzu peels and juice, enhancing the overall infusion. Using the right water temperature is crucial; too hot, and it may overpower the delicate citrus notes, too cool, and the flavors may not develop fully. Together, these three simple ingredients create a bright, well-rounded tea with layers of depth and warmth.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Start by thoroughly rinsing the yuzu under running water to remove any dirt or residue. For an extra level of cleanliness, gently scrubbing the peels with coarse salt will help eliminate impurities while enhancing the fruit’s natural fragrance.
Once the fruit is clean, carefully trim away any dark spots or blemishes from the peel with a sharp knife. Cut each yuzu into quarters, slicing from the stem down to the bottom tip. Removing the thick white pith is essential to prevent bitterness and ensure a well-balanced, smooth flavor.
Squeeze the juice and pulp into a small bowl, making sure to extract as much liquid as possible. If a smoother consistency is preferred, remove the seeds using a spoon or knife. Trim off the stem ends and discard them to maintain a clean and refined taste.
With the peels skin-side down, slice them into thin, julienne-style strips to maximize their aromatic potential. The thinner the strips, the better they will infuse into the tea.
Return to the bowl of juice and pulp, pressing the pulp firmly to release any remaining juice. For a more refined texture, blend the pulp in a food processor or finely chop it with a knife before setting it aside.
Layering with Honey and Infusing the Mixture
Using a sterilized jar, arrange a layer of yuzu peels inside, using chopsticks or a fork to evenly distribute them. Drizzle a generous amount of honey over the peels, ensuring they are well-coated.
Repeat this layering process, adding yuzu peels followed by honey, until all of the peels have been placed in the jar. Once finished, pour in the reserved yuzu juice and finely chopped pulp. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a spoon to evenly combine all ingredients.
Seal the jar tightly with a lid and store it in a cool, dry place for 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. After a day, open the jar and give the mixture another good stir to ensure even distribution. Reseal the jar and refrigerate for an additional 3-4 days to allow the yuzu and honey to fully infuse.
Making Citron Tea
To enjoy a comforting cup of citron tea, add one tablespoon of the yuzu-honey mixture to a mug. Pour in hot water or steeped black tea, stirring gently to dissolve the honey and release the citrus essence. The natural oils from the yuzu peel will infuse into the tea, creating a vibrant, aromatic drink. Serve warm and savor the balance of tart citrus and natural sweetness in every sip.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal yuzu-to-honey ratio for a balanced taste:
Start with equal parts yuzu and honey, adjusting sweetness to taste.
How to properly store the yuzu-honey mixture for long-term freshness:
Keep the jar tightly sealed in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to one month.
Adjusting sweetness levels to suit personal preferences:
Add more honey for a sweeter tea or use less for a bolder citrus flavor.
Alternative sweeteners that can be used instead of honey:
Maple syrup or agave can be used as substitutes for a vegan-friendly version.
Can I use a different citrus fruit if I can’t find yuzu?
Meyer lemons or calamansi can offer a similar balance of tartness and sweetness.
How long does the yuzu-honey mixture last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly, it can last up to a month, with flavors intensifying over time.
What’s the best way to store and preserve leftover citron tea?
Keep it in an airtight jar in the fridge and simply scoop out what you need when making a fresh cup.
Can I make a large batch for later use?
Yes, making a larger quantity and storing it in multiple jars ensures easy access to pre-prepared citron tea.
Why does my tea taste too bitter, and how can I fix it?
Ensure all pith is removed before infusing and add extra honey to mellow out the bitterness.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Citron tea pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. For a light and delightful snack, enjoy it with scones, butter cookies, or tea cakes. It also complements breakfast dishes such as toast, granola, and yogurt, adding a bright, citrusy note to your morning routine. If serving alongside a meal, consider pairing it with a simple rice dish, a fresh sandwich, or a crisp salad for a well-balanced contrast.
Customization Ideas
For those who enjoy a chilled beverage, transform this recipe into iced citron tea by adding a tablespoon of the yuzu-honey mixture to a glass of cold water or sparkling water. If you want to add warmth and complexity, infuse the tea with fresh ginger, cinnamon, or mint, enhancing its aromatic depth. Adjust the balance of tartness and sweetness by experimenting with different honey varieties or adding a splash of lemon juice for an extra citrus kick.
Citron tea is a beautifully simple yet deeply flavorful drink that offers a perfect blend of tart, sweet, and aromatic notes. Whether served warm as a cozy drink or chilled as a refreshing summer treat, its versatility makes it a favorite for all seasons. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create a vibrant, naturally sweet tea that is both comforting and invigorating. Experiment with flavors, pairings, and customizations to make this recipe your own.
Ingredients
5-6 medium-sized yuzu fruit
Honey (as needed)
Hot water
Instructions
Prep
Rinse the whole yuzu thoroughly under running water to remove any surface impurities. If desired, scrub the peels with coarse salt to cleanse them further and enhance their natural fragrance.
With a sharp knife, carefully trim away any dark spots or blemishes on the peel. Slice each yuzu into quarters, cutting from the stem down to the bottom tip. Remove the thick white pith to prevent bitterness and achieve a smooth, well-balanced flavor.
Squeeze out the juice and pulp into a small bowl, making sure to extract as much liquid as possible. If preferred, remove the seeds using a knife or spoon for a smoother texture. Trim off the stem ends and discard them.
Place the yuzu peels on a cutting board with the skin facing down. Using a steady hand, slice them into thin, julienne-style strips to maximize their aromatic infusion.
Return to the bowl of juice and pulp. Remove the pulp and press it firmly with your hands to extract any remaining juice. For a more refined texture, blend the pulp in a food processor or chop it finely with a knife. Set aside for later use.
Combining the Ingredients
In a sterilized jar, arrange a layer of yuzu peels using chopsticks or a fork. Pour a generous amount of honey over the peels, ensuring they are well-coated.
Continue layering the yuzu peels and honey, repeating the process until all of the peels have been added to the jar. Once done, pour in the reserved yuzu juice and finely chopped pulp.
Using a spoon, stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. Seal the jar tightly with a lid and store it in a cool, dry place for 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
After a day, open the jar and stir the mixture again to ensure even distribution. Reseal and refrigerate for an additional 3-4 days, allowing the yuzu and honey to fully infuse.
Making Citron Tea
To prepare a comforting cup of citron tea, add one tablespoon of the yuzu-honey mixture to a mug. Pour in hot water or steeped black tea, then stir gently to dissolve the honey and release the citrus essence. Serve warm and enjoy.
Citron Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 5-6 medium-sized yuzu fruit
- Honey as needed
- Hot water
Instructions
Prep
- Rinse the whole yuzu thoroughly under running water to remove any surface impurities. If desired, scrub the peels with coarse salt to cleanse them further and enhance their natural fragrance.
- With a sharp knife, carefully trim away any dark spots or blemishes on the peel. Slice each yuzu into quarters, cutting from the stem down to the bottom tip. Remove the thick white pith to prevent bitterness and achieve a smooth, well-balanced flavor.
- Squeeze out the juice and pulp into a small bowl, making sure to extract as much liquid as possible. If preferred, remove the seeds using a knife or spoon for a smoother texture. Trim off the stem ends and discard them.
- Place the yuzu peels on a cutting board with the skin facing down. Using a steady hand, slice them into thin, julienne-style strips to maximize their aromatic infusion.
- Return to the bowl of juice and pulp. Remove the pulp and press it firmly with your hands to extract any remaining juice. For a more refined texture, blend the pulp in a food processor or chop it finely with a knife. Set aside for later use.
Combining the Ingredients
- In a sterilized jar, arrange a layer of yuzu peels using chopsticks or a fork. Pour a generous amount of honey over the peels, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Continue layering the yuzu peels and honey, repeating the process until all of the peels have been added to the jar. Once done, pour in the reserved yuzu juice and finely chopped pulp.
- Using a spoon, stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. Seal the jar tightly with a lid and store it in a cool, dry place for 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After a day, open the jar and stir the mixture again to ensure even distribution. Reseal and refrigerate for an additional 3-4 days, allowing the yuzu and honey to fully infuse.
Making Citron Tea
- To prepare a comforting cup of citron tea, add one tablespoon of the yuzu-honey mixture to a mug. Pour in hot water or steeped black tea, then stir gently to dissolve the honey and release the citrus essence. Serve warm and enjoy.
