Dried lime tea, also known as black lime tea or noomi basra tea, is a traditional Middle Eastern beverage that has become popular worldwide due to its unique flavor and numerous health benefits. Dried limes are made by boiling fresh limes in saltwater and then drying them in the sun. The resulting product is a hard, brown, and pungent lime that adds a tangy and slightly bitter taste to the tea. This tea is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can boost your immune system and improve your overall health.
Ingredients
To make dried lime tea, you will need the following ingredients:
3-4 dried limes
4 cups of water
1 cinnamon stick
1-2 cloves
1-2 cardamom pods
Honey or sugar (optional)
You can find dried limes in most Middle Eastern or Asian grocery stores or order them online. They are also available in different varieties, such as black, brown, or yellow, but the black ones are the most common and preferred for making tea.
Instructions
To make dried lime tea, follow these simple steps:
Start by rinsing the dried limes under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Then, using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut them into small pieces.
In a medium-sized pot, bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the dried limes, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods to the pot and stir well.
Reduce the heat to low and let the tea simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, strain the tea through a sieve or cheesecloth into a teapot or cup.
At this point, you can add honey or sugar to sweeten the tea, if desired. Stir well and serve hot.
Nutrition
Dried lime tea is a low-calorie and caffeine-free beverage that is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and other nutrients. Here are some of the health benefits of dried lime tea:
Boosts the immune system: Dried limes are a great source of vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties. Drinking dried lime tea regularly can help strengthen your immune system and protect your body against infections and diseases.
Aids digestion: The citric acid in dried limes can help stimulate the production of digestive juices, which can aid in digestion and relieve constipation, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues.
Reduces inflammation: Dried limes contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate pain and swelling.
Regulates blood sugar: Dried limes have a low glycemic index, which means they do not cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Drinking dried lime tea can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes.
Improves skin health: Vitamin C and other antioxidants in dried limes can help promote healthy skin by reducing oxidative stress, preventing premature aging, and improving collagen production.
Conclusion
Dried lime tea is a delicious and healthy alternative to regular tea or coffee that can provide numerous health benefits. It is easy to make, affordable, and can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on your preferences. Give it a try and see how this exotic beverage can improve your health and well-being.
