Strawberry Chamomile Sparkling Iced Tea
Summer is the perfect time to indulge in the light and refreshing flavors of chamomile tea, especially when paired with the vibrant sweetness of strawberries. To elevate this classic beverage, using fresh chamomile flowers is the key. Plucking these delicate blossoms, blooming under the warmth of the sun, adds a natural and aromatic essence to the tea. The bright flavor of chamomile melding with peak-season strawberries is calming and invigorating at the same time. The addition of sparkling water adds a delightful effervescence, making this iced sparkling strawberry chamomile tea the perfect summer drink for those hot sunny days.
I've been looking forward to visiting the different farms in the area since moving to New Paltz, and I finally got my chance over Memorial Day weekend. Thanks to a tip from a friend, I found out that Taliaferro Farms had opened their strawberry patch for picking. I had ridden past the farm on my bike many times this spring, as it's only a couple miles away off of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail.
The strawberries were so fragrant and delicious, it was so much fun to pick them right off the vine. I had to go back at least once a week to get my fill of peak-season berries, especially since the farm is so close by!
The fresh chamomile flowers came from Phillies Bridge Farm’s u-pick field, a perk of being one of their CSA members. I was mesmerized by the bright yellow centers of these mini-daisy-like flowers and the fragrance was so lovely - much better than a musty dried tea bag. I’m not usually a chamomile tea fan, but I couldn’t wait to get home and brew a cup of tea with the freshly plucked blossoms because I knew it would taste different made with fresh flowers…
…and wildly different, it was indeed. I couldn’t believe how bright and refreshing it tasted! There was a familiar, nostalgic flavor for me - I read that there are apple undertones to chamomile and yes, that was it. It reminded me of Apple Sidra, an apple-flavored soda I grew up drinking in Taiwan.
As I had a pint of freshly picked strawberries waiting in the fridge, I knew this pairing would make the most refreshing drink to kick off summer!
Strawberry Chamomile Sparkling Iced Tea
Makes 1 glass
For strawberry puree, blend together:
1 cup strawberries, chopped (thawed, if frozen)
2 tablespoons sugar or honey (or to taste)
1/2 cup water
For chamomile tea:
1 cup water, 190° F
3-4 tablespoons fresh chamomile
a few sprigs of mint, optional
Steep flowers and mint in hot water for 10 minutes (or longer for a stronger brew). Strain and set aside.
Put it together:
1/4 cup strawberry puree
1/2 cup chamomile tea, brewed
1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
5 oz ice cubes (or enough to fill 3/4 of your glass)
a sprig of mint, optional
In a tall glass, add the strawberry puree, then the ice.
Gently pour in the sparkling water and chamomile tea over the ice.
Garnish with mint (if using), stir, and enjoy!