How to Make the Perfect Cold Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Brew
How to Make the Perfect Cold Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Brew
Butterfly pea flower tea is more than just a visual delight. Known for its stunning blue hue and natural ability to transform colors with a splash of citrus, this vibrant tea has become a favorite among cafes, restaurants, and beverage enthusiasts. Its subtle earthy flavor, health benefits, and versatility make it perfect for commercial use or home brewing. In this guide, we'll show you how to brew a refreshing cold butterfly pea flower tea step by step. Whether you're serving it on its own, as a unique ingredient in beverages, or paired with lemonade and mocktails, this simple recipe ensures consistent results every time.
What Is Butterfly Pea Tea?
Butterfly pea flower tea comes from the dried petals of the Clitoria ternatea plant, native to Southeast Asia. This caffeine-free herbal tea is widely celebrated for its vibrant blue color, which can change to purple or pink when mixed with acidic ingredients like lemon juice. Its antioxidant properties, including anthocyanins, make it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. The tea is not only beautiful but also functional—adding an element of natural wellness and visual appeal to any drink menu.
Cold Butterfly Pea Tea Recipe
Ingredients You Need:
- 4 tbsp (2 g) of Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers
- 34 fl. oz. boiling water (roughly 1 liter)
Steps to Brew:
- Combine the flowers and water: Add 4 tbsp (2 g) of dried butterfly pea flowers to 34 fl. oz. of boiling water in a heat-safe container. The flowers will instantly release a deep blue pigment.
- Stir gently: Stir the tea about five times to ensure even infusion. Leave the tea to steep until it naturally cools to room temperature.
- Refrigerate: Once cooled, transfer the tea to a sealed container and refrigerate. This step ensures the tea remains fresh and ready for serving.
- Strain and serve: When ready to use, strain the liquid to remove the flowers. You can discard the flowers or keep them as garnish for an extra aesthetic touch.
This recipe yields approximately 34 fl. oz. of butterfly pea flower tea, making it ideal for commercial preparation or pitcher servings.
How to Use Cold Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
- Refreshing Iced Tea: Serve the tea over ice with a splash of lime or lemon juice to watch the color transform to a vibrant purple.
- Layered Drinks: Use butterfly pea tea as a base for beautiful, Instagram-worthy layered drinks by combining it with lemonade, coconut water, or fruit juices.
- Mocktails & Cocktails: Add a unique touch to mocktails and cocktails, like a Butterfly Pea Flower Mojito or Gin Spritz.
- Smoothies & Lattes: Mix it into smoothies, milk-based drinks, or iced lattes for a stunning blue appearance.
- Dessert Applications: Use as a natural food dye for jellies, ice cubes, or even ice creams.
Why Serve Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Adding butterfly pea flower tea to your beverage lineup offers multiple benefits:
- Visual Appeal: Its striking natural color attracts attention, making drinks more shareable on social media.
- Health Benefits: The tea is caffeine-free, rich in antioxidants, and known for its calming properties.
- Versatility: It pairs well with various ingredients, allowing you to create unique menu offerings.
- Easy Preparation: With just two ingredients and minimal effort, you can prepare large batches for commercial use or events.
Tips for the Best Cold Brew Results
- Use high-quality dried butterfly pea flowers for a vibrant blue color and better flavor.
- Store the brewed tea in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.
- Adjust the steeping time for a more concentrated flavor, especially if the tea will be diluted with ice or other liquids.
- Serve chilled for the best taste experience, particularly in warmer climates or during summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reuse the butterfly pea flowers?
Yes, you can reuse the flowers for a second, lighter infusion. However, the color and flavor may be less intense.
How long does Cold Butterfly Pea Tea last?
When stored properly in a sealed container in the refrigerator, the tea can last up to 3-4 days.
Is Butterfly Pea Tea safe to drink every day?
Butterfly pea flower tea is caffeine-free and packed with antioxidants, making it suitable for regular consumption. Moderation is always recommended!
Final Thoughts
Cold butterfly pea flower tea is a simple yet stunning addition to any menu, beverage program, or home kitchen. Its natural vibrancy and adaptability make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from colorful iced teas to creative cocktails. Plus, with its antioxidant-rich profile, it's a drink that looks good and feels good.
Ready to impress your customers or guests? Follow this easy cold brew recipe and start experimenting with butterfly pea flower tea today. Cheers to beautiful brews!
