How to Brew Greek Mountain Tea
Straight from the teapot of the ancient Greeks, Greek Mountain Tea is so relaxing! This special tea, also known as shepherd’s tea, comes from the dried flowers of the Sideritis plant found in the Greek mountains. It’s full of antioxidants, supports your immune system, and has a great earthy taste with a floral twist. Plus, it’s caffeine-free, so you can enjoy it any time of the day without a buzz. Whether you’re winding down or need a little natural boost, this tea is just the thing!
I’ve been brewing Greek mountain tea (sideritis scardica) for a couple of years now since discovering it on one of our annual trips to the Greek island of Lesvos, and it’s become a part of my regular tea routine. The taste is soothing, with just the right amount of earthiness and subtle floral hints that make each sip a pleasure. I find it perfect for early mornings or late evenings, especially in the cooler months. It’s like a warm hug in a cup! My other half, who is from Lesvos, Greece, says that his Greek grandmother used to give it to him when he was feeling under the weather with flu symptoms. It also makes a delicious, light iced tea if you triple or quadruple the recipe.
What is Greek Mountain Tea?
Greek mountain tea, also known as “Tsai tou Vounou” (Τσαί του βουνού – tea of the mountain) or shepherd’s tea, is not just any tea—it’s a staple in traditional Greek herbal medicine, prized since ancient times. This tea is brewed from the dried yellow flowers and stems of the Sideritis plant, which is native to the rocky slopes of the mountains of Greece. The plant thrives at high elevations where it basks in the strong Mediterranean sun, developing its rich composition of essential oils and antioxidants.
Historically, Greek shepherds would pick the wild herbs from mountainsides to make a tea that helped them stay healthy. Today, it’s celebrated for its numerous health benefits, including less inflammation, supporting the immune system, and protecting the respiratory and digestive systems. Its popularity has grown so much in recent years that you might even find it in your local grocery stores or in specialty tea shops. I usually buy a few bags of it from MyMarket in Greece but have found it on Amazon as well. So, next time you sip on this herbal infusion, you’re not just enjoying a tea but partaking in a long-standing Greek tradition.
Why you will love brewing this tea
- Simple Ingredients: Just Greek mountain tea and water—nothing more!
- Health Benefits: Loaded with antioxidants and said to boost your immune system.
- No Caffeine: Enjoy this caffeine-free herbal tea infusion any time without worrying about staying up late.
- Versatile: It’s an excellent choice for chilly evenings or as a refreshing iced tea on warm days.
- Delicious Taste: Earthy with almost-sweet floral notes that relax and rejuvenate.
- Pretty Color: This is a gorgeous yellow-green tea. Kind of reminds me of chamomile with a hint of green.
Key ingredients
- Greek Mountain Tea: The star of the show, known for its unique flavor and health benefits. To make it, you steep the dried herbs, stems, and leaves of the plant. I haven’t found it in pre-packaged tea bags – just as loose tea.
- Boiled Water: Essential for extracting the flavors and benefits from the tea. Filtered water is best for a purer taste.
How to brew Greek mountain tea
- Boil Water: Start by boiling water in a kettle or on the stove. You’ll need enough to fill your mug.
- Prepare the Tea: Measure about 2 grams of Greek mountain tea. This usually fits in a standard tea ball or infuser. You might have to stuff it in a bit – it’s kind of fluffy!
- Steep: Place the tea ball or infuser in your mug. Wait for 10-20 seconds after it has boiled and then pour the hot water over it, ensuring the tea is fully submerged.
- Timing: Let it steep for 7-8 minutes. This allows the flavors and beneficial properties to fully infuse the water.
- Enjoy: Remove the infuser and enjoy your shepherd tea hot. You can adjust the steeping time according to taste preference—longer for a stronger tea or shorter for a milder flavor.
Recipe notes and tips
- Water Temperature: Make sure the water is just off the boil (I wait about 10-20 seconds) to avoid scorching the herbs, which can bring out a bitter flavor.
- Steeping Time: For a stronger infusion, you can steep the tea up to 10 minutes. However, start with 7-8 minutes and adjust according to your taste preference. If you like it really strong, just keep the tea infuser in your mug.
- Herb Quality: Use high-quality, organic Greek mountain tea if possible, as it will provide the best flavor and health benefits. My favorite brand is Olympus Sideritis.
- Serving Suggestions: This tea is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a slice of lemon or a bit of honey to enhance its natural flavors.
Variations
It’s usually served as is, but here are some ideas if you fancy something a little different:
- Iced Greek Mountain Tea: Cool down on a hot day by chilling your brewed tea and serving it over ice. Add a sprig of mint for a bit of refreshment. I like to brew 8-10 grams of Greek mountain tea per liter to make it strong as the ice will dilute it.
- Lemon Ginger Version: Add a slice of lemon and a few thin slices of ginger root during the steeping process for a zesty, invigorating flavor.
- Herbal Blend: Mix Greek mountain tea with other dried herbs like lavender or rose petals for a floral and aromatic experience. You could also add Greek herbs like oregano.
- Sweet Spice: For a sweeter, spicier tea, steep with a cinnamon stick and a few cloves, then sweeten with honey.
Storage instructions
- Cool: Allow your brewed Greek mountain tea to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the tea to a sealed container (like a jar) or jug and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Reheat: If you prefer your tea warm, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just be sure not to boil it to preserve the delicate flavors.
- Cold Serving: Serve the chilled tea straight from the fridge or over ice—perfect for a hot day.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, due to its natural properties and lack of caffeine, many find Greek mountain tea to be soothing and helpful for a better night’s sleep. I find it to be the perfect nightcap.
Absolutely! Greek mountain tea is safe for daily enjoyment as part of a balanced diet, though it’s always good to consult with a healthcare provider if you have specific health concerns.
Greek mountain tea is generally free from common allergens, but if you have plant-specific allergies, it’s wise to check before your first sip.
Yes, if you have access to fresh Sideritis leaves, you can use them to make tea. The flavor might be slightly different, and you’ll likely need a larger quantity than when using dried leaves.
More recipes you will love
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Greek Mountain Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 grams Greek Mountain Tea enough to pack a tea ball or infuser like the one pictured above
- 250-500 ml boiled water to fill your mug
Instructions
- Start by boiling water in a kettle or on the stove. You'll need enough to fill your mug.
- Measure about 2 grams of Greek mountain tea. This usually fits in a standard tea ball or infuser. You might have to press it down to fit more in.
- Place the tea ball or infuser in your mug. Let the boiling water rest for about 10-20 seconds and then pour the hot water over the infuser, and make sure the tea is fully submerged.
- Let it steep for 7-8 minutes.
- Remove the infuser and enjoy your tea hot.
Notes
- Water Temperature: Make sure the water is just off the boil (I wait about 10-20 seconds) to avoid scorching the herbs, which can bring out a bitter flavor.
- Steeping Time: For a stronger infusion, you can steep the tea up to 10 minutes. However, start with 7-8 minutes and adjust according to your taste preference. If you like it really strong, just keep the tea infuser in your mug.
- Herb Quality: Use high-quality, organic Greek mountain tea if possible, as it will provide the best flavor and health benefits. My favorite brand is Olympus Sideritis.
- Serving Suggestions: This tea is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a slice of lemon or a bit of honey to enhance its natural flavors.
Storage instructions
- Cool: Allow your brewed Greek mountain tea to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the tea to a sealed container (like a jar) or jug and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Reheat: If you prefer your tea warm, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just be sure not to boil it to preserve the delicate flavors.
- Cold Serving: Serve the chilled tea straight from the fridge or over ice—perfect for a hot day.
What a delcious tea! Thanks for the write up.