I’ve been noticing blue butterfly pea popping up everywhere lately – from online recipes to fancy drinks at cafes.
It’s become such a trend thanks to its striking blue hue and its nifty color-changing ability.
I’ll talk about where this beautiful ingredient comes from, and why it’s actually good for you.
You will also learn some scrumptious ways to enjoy it with Thai dishes.
What Is a Butterfly Pea Flower?
A butterfly pea flower is a lovely, vibrant flower that’s pretty famous for its bright blue petals.
Its fancy scientific name is Clitoria ternatea, but most people just call it butterfly pea, blue pea, or Asian pigeonwings.
These beauties mainly grow in Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
You can even spot them in some parts of Africa.
Now, what’s cool about these flowers is they’re not just eye candy.
People have been using them for a long time in traditional medicine and cooking.
One of the most exciting things about butterfly pea flowers is their color-changing trick.
When you mix them with something acidic, like lemon juice, they change from blue to purple or pink.
People use these flowers to make all sorts of things.
They make a beautiful blue tea by steeping the dried petals in hot water.
It’s not only mesmerizing to look at but also tasty – kind of earthy and a little flowery.
Some folks use butterfly pea flowers in cocktails to make drinks that go from blue to purple as you sip them.
You can also use them to color your rice or even add a pop of color to your desserts.
What Is Butterfly Pea Flower Tea?
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is a beautiful and colorful herbal tea made from the dried flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant.
It’s called butterfly pea because its petals resemble the shape of butterfly wings.
This tea is native to Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, where it has been enjoyed for centuries.
In Thailand, Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is known as “Nam Dok Anchan” and is a popular beverage, often served both hot and cold.
It is also used as a natural food coloring agent in various traditional dishes.
In Malaysia, it’s called “Bunga Telang” and is used in local cuisine for its vibrant blue color.
The tea has also gained popularity in other countries, including India and some parts of the Western world.
There it’s often used as a base for colorful cocktails and herbal infusions.
One of the fascinating aspects of this tea is its ability to change color based on pH levels.
When lemon or lime juice is added to the tea, it transforms from a brilliant blue to a stunning purple or pink shade.
Aside from its vibrant colors, Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is celebrated for its mild, earthy flavor and is caffeine-free.
4 Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Benefits
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea isn’t just a pretty drink.
It also offers several health benefits, thanks to its rich content of antioxidants, primarily anthocyanins.
1. Powerful Antioxidants
Butterfly pea flower tea gets its stunning color from anthocyanins, natural pigments found in plants like blueberries.
These anthocyanins are powerful antioxidants that help protect our cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals.
By reducing oxidative stress, this tea may potentially lower the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and cancer over time.
2. Blood Sugar Control
The anthocyanins in butterfly pea flower tea play a role in managing high blood sugar levels.
This is particularly important because elevated blood sugar is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Consuming this tea regularly might help in better blood sugar control.
3. Heart-Friendly
Anthocyanins not only assist with blood sugar but also have the potential to lower high blood pressure.
Maintaining healthy blood pressure is crucial for proper blood circulation to the heart.
4. Skin Benefits
For those interested in skincare, butterfly pea flower tea has something to offer.
It contains vitamin C, essential for wound healing and maintaining skin health.
Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of anthocyanins in the tea protect the skin from oxidative stress.
This is especially relevant because oxidative stress can contribute to the signs of skin aging.
Hence, making butterfly pea flower tea a potential ally in maintaining youthful-looking skin.
Butterfly Pea Flower Side Effects
As for side effects, it turns out there isn’t much scientific research on this topic.
Some people have mentioned experiencing stomach issues like diarrhea, nausea, or cramps after having the tea.
However, this can vary based on how much you drink.
If you’re new to butterfly pea flower tea or have a history of tummy troubles, it’s a good idea to start with a small amount and see how your body reacts.
If you notice any digestive problems, it might be best to stop drinking the tea.
What You Need to Make Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Making Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is a delightful experience, and to get started, you’ll need a few essential items.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll require:
1. Butterfly Pea Flowers
You need dried/fresh butterfly pea flowers.
You can find these at specialty tea shops, online retailers, or even grow your own if you have access to the plant.
2. Boiling Water
Hot water is needed to steep the dried flowers and bring out their vibrant color and flavor.
Make sure it’s freshly boiled for the best results.
3. A Teapot or Teacup
You’ll need a vessel to steep the tea.
A teapot or teacup with a lid works well.
The lid helps trap the heat and aroma during steeping.
4. Optional Add-Ins
While the basic Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is lovely on its own, you can enhance the experience by adding optional ingredients such as:
Lemon or Lime Juice: To create the mesmerizing color change from blue to purple or pink and add a zesty twist to the flavor.
Honey or Sweetener: If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add honey, sugar, or your favorite sweetener.
5. A Strainer
To remove the steeped flowers from your tea, a strainer is handy.
It ensures your cup is free of loose petals.
6. Cups or Glasses
Finally, you’ll need cups or glasses to serve your Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
Clear glassware showcases the color-changing magic beautifully.
How to Make Butterfly Pea Tea with Fresh Flowers
If you’re lucky enough to have fresh butterfly pea flowers on hand, making tea from them is a rewarding experience.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the most out of those beautiful blooms:
Step 1: Gather Fresh Butterfly Pea Flowers
To make Butterfly Pea Tea with fresh flowers, start by collecting a handful of fresh butterfly pea flowers.
You can usually find these flowers growing in your garden or purchase them from a local market.
Make sure the flowers are clean and free from pesticides.
Step 2: Boil Water
In a kettle or pot, bring water to a boil.
The ideal temperature for brewing butterfly pea tea is between 203°F (95°C) and 212°F (100°C)
You can use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature if needed.
Step 3: Rinse the Flowers
While the water is heating up, gently rinse the fresh butterfly pea flowers under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
Step 4: Place the Flowers in a Teapot or Mug
Once the water reaches the right temperature, place the fresh butterfly pea flowers directly into a teapot or a mug.
You’ll need about 5-10 flowers for a standard-sized cup of tea.
But you can adjust the amount based on your preference for color and flavor.
Step 5: Pour the Hot Water
Carefully pour the hot water over the flowers.
Make sure to cover all the flowers with the water, allowing them to steep.
Step 6: Steep for 3-5 Minutes
Let the fresh flowers steep in the hot water for about 3-5 minutes.
This steeping time will allow the vibrant blue color and subtle earthy flavor to infuse into the water.
You can adjust the steeping time based on how intense you want the color and flavor.
Step 7: Optional – Add Sweeteners or Citrus
If desired, you can sweeten the tea with honey or sugar.
To create a magical color-changing effect, add a few drops of lemon or lime juice to the tea.
Watch as the blue tea turns into a mesmerizing shade of purple or pink.
Step 8: Strain and Serve
After steeping, use a strainer to remove the flowers from the tea.
Pour the beautiful Butterfly Pea Flower Tea into your favorite cup and enjoy the magical colors and delightful taste.
Scroll to the bottom to have complete recipe with ingredients and instructions.
How to Make Butterfly Pea Tea with Dried Flowers
Here’s what you need to do when you have dried butterfly pea flowers and want to make tea:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
To make a delightful cup of Butterfly Pea Tea with dried flowers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of dried Butterfly Pea flowers
- 1 cup of hot water
- Honey or sugar (optional, for sweetening)
- A teapot or heatproof container
- A teacup or mug
Step 2: Boil Water
Start by heating up one cup of water. It’s important to get the water hot, but not boiling vigorously.
You want it between 203°F (95°C) and 212°F (100°C.)
You can use an electric kettle, stovetop pot, or microwave to heat the water.
Step 3: Add Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers
Place the dried Butterfly Pea flowers into your teapot or heatproof container.
Step 4: Pour Hot Water
Carefully pour the hot water over the dried flowers.
Make sure to cover all the flowers with water.
Step 5: Steep
Now, let the flowers steep in the hot water for about 5-7 minutes.
If you prefer a stronger flavor or a deeper blue color, you can steep for a few minutes longer.
Step 6: Optional Sweetening
If you like your tea sweet, you can add honey or sugar to taste.
Stir it in until it’s dissolved. Serve and enjoy!
How to Dry Butterfly Pea Flower
Drying these lovely blue blossoms is a great way to preserve them for later use in teas and other culinary creations.
Let’s get started.
Step 1: Harvest Your Butterfly Pea Flowers
The first thing I do is gather fresh Butterfly Pea flowers from my garden.
I pick the ones that are fully bloomed and vibrant in color.
It’s best to collect them in the morning when the dew has evaporated.
Step 2: Prepare Your Flowers
After harvesting, I gently shake or tap the flowers to remove any insects or debris.
You can also rinse them with cold water if needed.
Then, I pat them dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: Air Drying
I like to use the air-drying method because it’s simple and doesn’t require any special equipment.
I take a piece of clean cheesecloth or a mesh screen and spread the flowers out in a single layer.
Make sure they have some space between them to allow for good air circulation.
Step 4: Find a Dry, Well-Ventilated Spot
I place my flowers in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
A shady spot in a cool room works perfectly.
You want to avoid exposure to direct sunlight because it can cause the flowers to lose their vibrant blue color.
Step 5: Patience Is Key
I let the flowers air dry for about 1-2 weeks.
During this time, they will gradually lose their moisture and become crispy.
It’s important not to rush this process to ensure they are properly dried.
Step 6: Check for Dryness
To check if the flowers are completely dry, I gently touch them.
They should feel brittle and break easily.
If they’re still a bit flexible, they need more time to dry.
Step 7: Store Your Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers
Once they’re dry, I store my dried Butterfly Pea flowers in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
I keep them in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality.
Now, I have a stash of dried flowers ready to use whenever I want to brew a lovely cup of Butterfly Pea Tea or add some natural blue color to my dishes.
How to Make Butterfly Pea Flower Powder
Butterfly pea blue powder is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile.
You can use it to add a pop of color to your culinary creations or even make butterfly pea tea instantly.
Making it is incredibly easy.
Step 1: Gather Your Butterfly Pea Flowers
I start by collecting dried Butterfly Pea flowers.
You can either buy them or use the ones you’ve dried yourself, as I discussed earlier.
Make sure they are completely dry for the best results.
Step 2: Break Out the Blender
I use a blender for this process.
It’s simple and gets the job done.
Just make sure your blender is clean and dry.
Step 3: Add the Dried Flowers
I place the dried Butterfly Pea flowers into the blender.
Depending on how much powder you want to make, you can adjust the quantity.
I typically use about a cup of dried flowers.
Step 4: Blend Away
Now, it’s time to blend!
I start at a low speed and gradually increase it to high.
I blend the flowers until they turn into a fine powder.
It usually takes a minute or two.
Be patient; you want a smooth, consistent powder.
Step 5: Sieve It
After blending, I pass the powder through a fine mesh sieve or a sifter.
This helps remove any larger bits and ensures you have a silky smooth powder.
Step 6: Store It
I transfer the Butterfly Pea Flower Powder into an airtight container.
It’s important to keep it sealed well to prevent moisture from getting in, which can cause clumping.
Step 7: Get Creative
Now that I have my Butterfly Pea Flower Powder ready, I can use it in various ways.
I add a pinch to my tea for an instant burst of color or use it as a natural food dye in recipes like rice, noodles, and desserts.
The possibilities are endless!
How to Make Butterfly Pea Tea Change Color
Let’s do a little magic on our butterfly pea tea and see how it REALLY changes its color!
Step 1: Brew a Blue Base
Begin by making a classic cup of Butterfly Pea Tea using dried Butterfly Pea flowers.
You can refer to the earlier guide on making Butterfly Pea Tea for the basic steps.
This will give you a vibrant blue tea as your starting point.
Step 2: Add a Twist of Acid
The real magic happens when we introduce acidity.
You can use lemon juice or any other citrus fruit juice for this.
I like to squeeze the juice from half a lemon into a separate container.
Step 3: Pour in the Citrus Juice
Slowly, add the citrus juice to my cup of blue Butterfly Pea Tea.
As the acid from the lemon interacts with the tea’s natural pH, you’ll notice the color transformation.
The vibrant blue starts turning into a beautiful shade of purple or pink right before your eyes.
Step 4: Watch the Color Dance
Give it a gentle stir to fully mix in the lemon juice.
You’ll see the color continue to change as the acid reacts with the anthocyanins in the Butterfly Pea flowers.
The more lemon juice you add, the brighter the pink or purple hue will become.
Step 5: Sweeten to Taste
If you like your tea sweet, you can add honey or sugar at this point.
Stir it in until it’s dissolved.
The sweet and tangy combination is simply delightful.
Step 6: Sip and Enjoy
Your color-changing Butterfly Pea Tea is ready to sip and enjoy!
It’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes.
The color transformation is a conversation starter and a unique way to impress your guests.
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: Hot or Cold?
When it comes to enjoying Butterfly Pea Flower Tea, you have the choice of having it hot or cold.
This vibrant blue herbal tea is popular in Southeast Asia.
It offers a unique taste and visual experience that can be tailored to your preferences and the weather.
Let me share my thoughts on both options.
Hot Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
In many countries, particularly Thailand and Malaysia, hot Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is a cherished tradition.
Brewing it hot brings out its earthy, floral flavors.
The deep blue color, which turns into purple when you add a squeeze of lemon.
This makes it not just delicious but also visually stunning.
The warmth of the tea can be especially comforting during the rainy season or cooler months.
Cold Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
On the flip side, cold Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is a fantastic choice for hot and humid days.
In Thailand, it’s a popular street beverage, known as “Nam Dok Anchan,” served cold with ice and a touch of honey.
The chilled version is incredibly refreshing, with a milder taste that’s perfect for quenching your thirst.
The bright blue color is also quite appealing and makes for a striking iced tea.
Taste Notes
Regardless of whether you choose hot or cold, Butterfly Pea Flower Tea has a unique taste profile.
It’s earthy and slightly woody, with floral undertones.
Some describe it as having hints of green tea or even a subtle grassy flavor like matcha.
Its natural mild sweetness means you can enjoy it as-is or with a bit of sweetener, like honey or sugar, to suit your taste.
Related – What Does Butterfly Pea Tea Taste Like?
How to Make Butterfly Pea Flower Iced Tea
Here’s how I whip up a refreshing glass of Butterfly Pea Flower Iced Tea:
Method 1: Iced Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of dried Butterfly Pea flowers
- 1 cup of hot water
- Ice cubes
- Honey or sugar (optional, for sweetening)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Steps
- Start by heating up one cup of water until it’s hot but not boiling vigorously, about 208°F (97°C).
- Place the dried Butterfly Pea flowers in a teapot or heatproof container.
- Pour the hot water over the flowers and let them steep for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags or strain the tea to remove the flowers.
- Allow the brewed tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it until it’s chilled, or you can speed up the process by placing it in the freezer for a short time.
- Once the tea is cold, fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the chilled Butterfly Pea Flower Tea over the ice.
- If you prefer your tea sweetened, add honey or sugar to taste. Stir until it’s dissolved.
- You can garnish your iced tea with lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor.
Method 2: Cold Brew Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of dried Butterfly Pea flowers
- 1 cup of cold water
- Ice cubes
- Honey or sugar (optional, for sweetening)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Steps
- In a jar or pitcher, combine the dried Butterfly Pea flowers and cold water.
- Stir well and cover the container. Place it in the refrigerator.
- Let the tea steep in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for a stronger flavor.
- Once the tea has steeped to your liking, strain out the flowers or remove the tea bags.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the cold-brewed Butterfly Pea Flower Tea over the ice.
- Add honey or sugar if you prefer your tea sweetened. Stir until it’s well-mixed.
- Garnish with lemon slices if desired.
6 Factors That Affect the Flavor of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
In my tea-making adventures, I’ve discovered a few key factors that can significantly impact the flavor of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
Here are 6 factors to keep in mind:
1. Water Temperature
The temperature of the water you use plays a crucial role.
I’ve found that using water that’s too hot can make the tea taste bitter.
Ideally, aim for water that’s around 203°F (95°C) for a smoother, more balanced flavor.
2. Steeping Time
The length of time you let the dried flowers steep in hot water matters.
A shorter steeping time, like 5-7 minutes, yields a milder taste.
A longer steep, say 10-15 minutes, can make the tea more robust and flavorful.
Experiment to find your preferred steeping time.
3. Freshness of Flowers
Using fresh, high-quality dried Butterfly Pea flowers is essential.
Older or stale flowers may result in a less vibrant color and a less pronounced flavor.
Make sure your flowers are stored properly to maintain their freshness.
4. Acidic Additions
Adding citrus juice, like lemon or lime, can alter the flavor profile.
It not only transforms the color but also adds a tangy twist to the taste.
If you enjoy a slightly tart note, give it a try.
5. Sweeteners
Your choice of sweetener can influence the flavor.
Honey, sugar, or even agave syrup can enhance the sweetness and balance the earthy notes of the tea.
Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
6. Tea-to-Water Ratio
The ratio of dried Butterfly Pea flowers to water can impact the intensity of the flavor.
More flowers will result in a stronger taste, while fewer flowers yield a milder brew.
Find the right balance that suits your preferences.
How to Make Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Taste Good
Here are five ways to make Butterfly Pea Flower Tea taste delicious:
1. Lemon or Lime Twist
It not only turns the tea from blue to purple but also imparts a zesty, citrusy flavor that balances the earthy notes of the tea.
Start with a small squeeze and adjust to your taste.
2. Herbal Infusions
Experiment with herbs like mint or lemongrass.
Just steep them alongside the Butterfly Pea flowers.
Mint adds a refreshing kick, while lemongrass gives a subtle citrusy twist.
3. Fresh Fruits
Throw in some fresh fruit slices like orange, berries, or passion fruit.
They not only infuse natural sweetness but also add fruity complexity to the tea.
You can muddle the fruits for extra flavor.
4. Creamy Delight
If you prefer a creamy texture, try adding a splash of milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
It creates a smooth, velvety tea that balances the herbal notes beautifully.
5. Boba
For a fun twist, consider adding boba pearls to your milky Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
The chewy tapioca pearls combine with the unique flavor of tea for texturally interesting drink.
Personally, I enjoy a cup of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea with a squeeze of lemon and a touch of honey.
It’s the perfect blend of earthy, floral, and citrusy notes that I find simply irresistible.
5 Butterfly Pea Tea Drink Recipes
Here are some of my fav and easy-to-make butterfly pea tea recipes:
1. Blueberry Butterfly Pea Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup of frozen blueberries
- 1 cup of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (cooled)
- 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative
- 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Fresh blueberries and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Start by brewing a cup of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea and allowing it to cool. You can make it more concentrated if you want a stronger blue color.
- In a blender, combine the cooled Butterfly Pea Tea, frozen blueberries, Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative), and honey (or maple syrup).
- If you prefer a thicker smoothie, you can add a handful of ice cubes.
- Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more honey or maple syrup.
- Pour the vibrant Blueberry Butterfly Pea Smoothie into a glass, and garnish it with fresh blueberries and a sprig of mint.
2. Blue-Matcha Latte
Ingredients
- 1 cup of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (strong brew, cooled)
- 1 cup of hot milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Honey or sweetener of choice (to taste)
Instructions
- Brew a cup of strong Butterfly Pea Flower Tea and allow it to cool.
- Froth the hot milk until it’s creamy.
- In a cup, mix equal parts of the cooled Butterfly Pea Tea and frothed milk.
- Sweeten to taste with honey or your preferred sweetener.
3. Butterfly Pea and Ginger Iced Tea
Ingredients
- 1 cup of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (cooled)
- A few thin slices of fresh ginger
- Ice cubes
- Squeeze of lemon juice
Instructions
- Brew a cup of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea and let it cool.
- Add a few thin slices of fresh ginger to the cooled tea and let it infuse for about 30 minutes.
- Remove the ginger slices.
- Serve the tea over ice with a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty and refreshing drink.
4. Butterfly Pea Mojito Mocktail
Ingredients
- Fresh mint leaves
- Sugar
- Ice cubes
- 1 cup of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (cooled)
- Squeeze of lime juice
- Soda water
Instructions
- In a glass, muddle some fresh mint leaves with sugar.
- Add ice cubes, cooled Butterfly Pea Flower Tea, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Top it off with soda water for a non-alcoholic mojito with a vibrant blue hue.
5. Blue Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 oz of tequila
- 1 oz of triple sec
- 1 oz of freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 oz of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (cooled)
- Salt for rimming the glass
Instructions
- Rim a glass with salt.
- In a shaker, combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and cooled Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
- Shake with ice and strain it into the salt-rimmed glass for a blue margarita with a twist.
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Food Pairing
I’ve had the pleasure of savoring Butterfly Pea Flower Tea alongside some delicious Thai dishes.
This tea is not only visually striking but also pairs wonderfully with Thai cuisine.
Here are 5 food combinations that you can try:
1. Tom Yum Soup
Starting with a classic, Tom Yum Soup is a Thai favorite.
Its bold and spicy flavors are perfectly complemented by the mild, slightly earthy taste of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
Sipping the tea in between spoonfuls of this aromatic soup provides a pleasant contrast and helps balance the heat.
2. Green Curry
Another iconic Thai dish, Green Curry, offers a rich and creamy taste with a hint of spice.
When you enjoy it with a cup of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea, the natural sweetness and subtle floral notes of tea enhance the overall dining experience.
3. Pad Thai
The sweet and savory flavors of Pad Thai, Thailand’s famous stir-fried noodle dish, are beautifully complemented by the tea’s natural sweetness.
The vibrant blue tea adds a pop of color to your meal, making it visually appealing as well.
4. Mango Sticky Rice
For dessert, Mango Sticky Rice is a must-try.
The creaminess of the rice paired with the sweetness of ripe mango goes hand in hand with the delicate flavor of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
Plus, the blue tea contrasts beautifully with the bright yellow mango, creating an enticing visual display.
5. Spicy Papaya Salad (Som Tum)
If you’re a fan of spicy dishes, you’ll love pairing Spicy Papaya Salad, or Som Tum, with Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
The tea’s soothing qualities provide relief from the heat of this zesty salad.
It’s a delicious way to balance the flavors and cool your palate.
When to Drink Butterfly Pea Tea
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is a versatile beverage that can be enjoyed on various occasions.
Here are some moments when I like to have this delightful drink:
Refreshing Break: On hot summer days, I love sipping on chilled Butterfly Pea Tea as a refreshing break.
Dinner Parties: Butterfly Pea Flower Tea can be a unique and visually stunning addition to dinner parties.
It’s an excellent conversation starter, and guests often find the color-changing effect fascinating.
Special Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, serving Butterfly Pea Tea can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the event.
Post-Meal Aid: After a hearty meal, a cup of Butterfly Pea Tea can aid in digestion and cleanse the palate.
It’s a light and soothing way to wrap up a satisfying dinner.
Wellness Moments: Some people believe in the potential health benefits of Butterfly Pea Tea, including its antioxidant properties.
I sometimes have it during wellness or detox periods.
Picnics and Outdoor Adventures: Taking a thermos of chilled Butterfly Pea Tea on picnics or hikes is a great idea.
It’s a refreshing and visually appealing drink to enjoy in the great outdoors.
Related to Tea Making
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Recipe
Course: DrinksCuisine: Thai2
servings2
minutes5
minutes1-5
kcal7
minutesA tantalizing recipe for a stunningly blue Butterfly Pea Flower Tea that serves a comforting experience for 2 people.
Ingredients
2 cups of water
2 tablespoons of dried butterfly pea flowers
2 teaspoons of honey (or to taste)
Juice from half a lemon (optional)
Directions
- Heat the Water: In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. The ideal steeping temperature is between 203°F (95°C) and 212°F (100°C).
- Steep the Tea: Add the dried butterfly pea flowers and allow them to steep for about 5 minutes, until the water has taken on a deep blue color.
- Strain the Tea: After the steeping time, strain the tea into two cups, removing the flowers.
- Sweeten the Tea: Sweeten the tea with 2 teaspoons of honey or adjust to your taste.
- Enhance with Lemon (optional): For an enchanting color change, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the tea, turning it from blue to purple.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Opt for Quality: Choose vibrant blue, high-quality dried butterfly pea flowers.
- Storing: Store brewed tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Ice Cubes: Freeze some tea in ice cube trays for colorful, slowly melting cubes to use in iced tea.
- Herbs: Enhance flavor by infusing with herbs like lemongrass, mint, or lavender.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does Butterfly Pea Flower tea taste like?
Butterfly Pea Flower tea has a mild, slightly earthy taste with subtle floral undertones. It is often described as having a gentle, herbal flavor. Read more about Butterfly pea tea taste here!
Does Butterfly Pea Flower tea have caffeine?
No, Butterfly Pea Flower tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it a great choice for those looking for a caffeine-free alternative.
Is Butterfly Pea Flower tea a real tea?
Butterfly Pea Flower tea is not a true tea as it doesn’t come from the Camellia sinensis plant. Instead, it is an herbal infusion made from the dried flowers of the Butterfly Pea plant (Clitoria ternatea).
How many calories are in Butterfly Pea Flower tea?
Butterfly Pea Flower tea is virtually calorie-free when consumed without added sweeteners or other ingredients.
How many butterfly pea flowers to make tea?
For a standard cup of Butterfly Pea Flower tea, you can use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried Butterfly Pea flowers.
Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences and the strength of flavor and color you desire.
Is it safe to drink butterfly pea flower tea every day?
Butterfly Pea Flower tea is generally considered safe for daily consumption. However, as with any herbal tea, it’s a good practice not to overindulge.
Who should not drink butterfly pea tea?
While Butterfly Pea Flower tea is safe for most people, it’s essential to be cautious if you are pregnant or nursing, have allergies to the Butterfly Pea plant, or are taking specific medications.
If you have concerns or questions about its suitability for your situation, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before adding it to your regular diet.