Fresh Moroccan Mint Tea for Chilly Afternoons and Slow Evenings

What this tea is

Moroccan mint tea is a simple blend of green tea and fresh mint leaves, lightly sweetened. The version described by Helene Dsouza on Masala Herb follows the Maghreb tradition—green tea (often gunpowder variety) is combined with a bunch of fresh mint and sugar, then served hot in small glasses.

Ingredients you need

• Green tea: 2 teaspoons (gunpowder green tea is traditional, but any good-quality green tea is acceptable).

• Water: about 3½ cups.
• Sugar: 2–3 tablespoons, adjusted to taste.

Step-by-step preparation

1. 1Boil water. Place the green tea leaves into a small bowl and pour a small amount of boiling water over them. Steep briefly and strain out this first infusion, discarding the liquid. This rinse reduces bitterness.
2. 2Put the wet tea leaves into the teapot. Add sugar and pour the remaining boiling water over the leaves.

1. 1Let the tea steep for a few minutes, then pour into small glasses and serve hot.

Serving notes and customs

• Small colorful glasses are often used so the tea cools faster. Hosts typically serve three rounds, and the tea is enjoyed throughout the day.

Recipe details (servings and nutrition)

• Yields about eight small glasses.

• Nutrition per serving (as provided): roughly 15 kcal, 3 g carbohydrates (about 3 g sugar), small amounts of vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

• Avoid boiling the mint leaves directly. Adding them to boiling water to steep preserves their tender flavor.
• Use a wooden spoon rather than metal when stirring to follow local custom and avoid metallic taste.

• For small variations, add lemon verbena or lemon balm with the mint.

Quick variations

• Iced version: prepare as instructed, steep for at least 5 minutes, strain, then chill and serve over ice.

Why this is useful for chilly afternoons

The blend of warm liquid, fresh mint aroma, and light sweetness makes this tea comforting on cool days while remaining lively and fragrant. It prepares quickly and works well for sharing when you want a simple, communal drink.