In the realm of fermented beverages, Jun tea stands out as a unique and slightly effervescent elixir with a taste that dances between sweet and tangy. Originating in Tibet, Jun tea is often referred to as the "Champagne of Kombucha" due to its distinct flavour profile and the use of honey as a sweetener. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of Jun tea, explore its fascinating history, and guide you through the simple process of crafting this delightful drink in the comfort of your home.
Jun tea shares its roots with kombucha but is made with green tea and honey instead of black tea and sugar. The key differentiator is the culture used for fermentation; while kombucha employs a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast), Jun tea utilises a unique culture known as a Jun SCOBY.
Like its kombucha counterpart, Jun tea is rich in probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and overall well-being. With green tea as one of the main ingredients, Jun tea is loaded with antioxidants known for their potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation and fighting free radicals. The combination of honey and green tea also provides a gentle energy boost, making Jun tea a great alternative to caffeinated beverages.
Jun Tea Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 litre of filtered water
- 2 green tea bags or 1 tablespoon loose leaf green tea
- ¼ to 1/2 cup raw honey
- Jun SCOBY
- ¼ to 1/2 cup of Jun tea from a previous batch (or store-bought Jun tea)
Instructions:
Prepare the Sweet Tea: Bring the filtered water to a boil and steep the green tea bags or loose leaf tea for about 10 minutes. Add the honey and stir until it dissolves. Allow the sweet tea to cool to room temperature.
Combine Ingredients: In a glass jar, combine the cooled sweet tea with the Jun SCOBY and Jun tea from a previous batch.
Cover and Ferment: Cover the jar with a cloth secured with a rubber band to allow air circulation. Place the jar in a warm, dark place for 3-7 days. The longer the fermentation, the less sweet and the stronger the flavour.
Check: Taste the Jun tea after 3 days. If it has reached the desired balance of sweetness and acidity, it's ready. If not, allow it to ferment for a few more days. Remember that if you plan to do a second ferment, you will need to start with it being a little sweeter than you would ultimately like.
Bottle and Refrigerate: Remove the Jun SCOBY and reserve it for the next batch. Bottle the Jun tea in a bottle with a tight lid to preserve the fiz. Add any flavours you would like and store in a cupboard for another couple of days for the second ferment. Once it is ready you can store it in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will slow down fermentation.
Enjoy Your Jun Tea: Pour yourself a glass, savour the unique flavours, and revel in the satisfaction of crafting your own Jun tea at home.
Jun tea is not just a beverage; it's a journey into the world of fermentation, combining the goodness of green tea and honey with the magic of a Jun SCOBY. By following these simple steps, you can embark on a delightful brewing adventure, creating a refreshing and healthful elixir that will surely become a favourite in your home. Cheers to the art of Jun tea!