Aniseed Tea is one of the more popular hot beverages served throughout the Arab Gulf countries. This slightly sweet tea with a subtle hint of licorice is a beverage of choice after enjoying a heavy meal. In fact, for centuries, a hot drink of aniseed and water has been used to relieve stomach discomfort and indigestion. As a child, my mother always had Aniseed Tea ready, whether we complained about abdominal discomforts or not, as she considered this tea to be healthy and beneficial. But as an adult I discovered that this tea is also enjoyed purely for its taste, regardless of its
medicinal qualities. While at Abu Dhabi’s waterfront sheesha (water pipe) cafes, my colleagues enjoyed puffing on their tobacco while sipping on Shai Yansoon. I, on the other hand, indulged in this delicious hot drink without the need to smoke.
Makes four 8-oz (250-ml) servings
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
COOKING TIME: 5 minutes
STANDING TIME: 5 minutes
INGREDIENTS
- 4 cups (1 liter) water
- 3 teaspoons loose green tea
- 2 teaspoons ground aniseed
- 2 tablespoons sugar or to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
- Bring the water to a boil. In the meantime, while the water is coming to a boil, place the rest of the ingredients in a teapot.
- Pour the boiling water into the teapot and stir.
- Allow to steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain into tea cups or heat-proof glasses and serve immediately.
