Chinese Goji Berry Tea Recipe with Red Dates & Ginger

Steeped in tradition and wellness, Chinese Goji Berry Tea is a vibrant infusion that embodies centuries of Eastern medicinal wisdom. Originating from ancient China, this herbal tea is crafted from the bright red berries of the Lycium barbarum plant, commonly known as goji berries or wolfberries.

First cultivated in the fertile valleys of Ningxia and Tibet, goji berries have been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2,000 years, prized for their ability to nourish the body, enhance energy, and promote longevity.

This soothing tea blends the mild sweetness of goji berries with subtle earthy notes, making it both delicious and healthful. Its popularity has transcended borders, offering a sip of heritage and wellness to tea enthusiasts worldwide.

In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare this iconic drink and bring a touch of ancient Chinese culture to your tea rituals.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals from goji berries, dates, and ginger, this tea supports overall health and wellness.
• Deliciously Versatile: The blend of sweet, spicy, and citrusy flavors appeals to a wide range of palates and can be enjoyed hot or chilled.
• Rich in Tradition: Enjoy a recipe rooted in ancient Chinese medicinal practices, connecting you to centuries of wellness wisdom.
• Natural Energy Boost: Goji berries and dates provide a gentle, sustained energy lift without caffeine, making it a great alternative to coffee or black tea.
• Kid-Friendly Option: The natural sweetness from dates and honey makes it appealing to children while still being healthy.
• Ecological Ingredients: Most components are minimally processed and can be composted after use, making this a sustainable choice for tea lovers.

Ingredients

Dried goji berries are the star of this tea, valued for their sweet, slightly tart flavor and numerous health benefits. When choosing goji berries, look for plump, vibrant red berries without any added sugars or preservatives. High-quality goji berries should have a firm texture, not overly dry or brittle.

Dried dates add natural sweetness and a rich, caramel-like depth to the tea. For the best results, choose pitted dates that are soft and moist, as these will dissolve more easily and blend seamlessly into the drink. Medjool dates are an excellent option due to their sweetness and texture.

Fresh ginger provides a spicy warmth that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients. Choose ginger with smooth, taut skin and a firm texture, as fresher ginger has a more potent flavor. Sliced thinly, it releases its essence effectively during simmering.

A cinnamon stick adds a fragrant, woody spice that enhances the tea’s complexity. Opt for true cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon) if available, as it has a milder, sweeter taste compared to cassia cinnamon, making it ideal for tea.

Orange peel contributes a bright, citrusy aroma and a hint of bitterness that complements the tea’s overall flavor. Use the peel from a fresh, organic orange to avoid any pesticide residue and ensure a cleaner taste. Scrape off the white pith if you want to avoid excessive bitterness.

Honey acts as a natural sweetener, harmonizing the diverse flavors into a balanced, soothing brew. Choose raw or lightly processed honey for a more robust flavor and health benefits. Add it sparingly to enhance the tea’s sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients.

Ingredients for making 4 servings of Chinese Goji Berry Tea Recipe:

• 2 tablespoons dried goji berries
• 2–3 dried dates (pitted)
• 1 small piece of fresh ginger (about 1 inch), sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Peel from half an orange (use organic if possible)
• 4 cups water
• Honey (to taste)

How To Make Chinese Goji Berry Tea Recipe

Instructions for making 4 servings of Chinese Goji Berry Tea Recipe:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Rinse the dried goji berries and dried dates to remove any impurities.
   • Slice the ginger thinly for maximum flavor.
   • Peel the orange, keeping the peel thin and avoiding the white pith.
2. Boil the Water:
   • In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil.
3. Add the Ingredients:
   • Once the water boils, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the goji berries, dried dates, sliced ginger, cinnamon stick, and orange peel.
4. Simmer the Tea:
   • Cover the pot and let the tea simmer for 15–20 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the dates to soften.
5. Strain and Sweeten:
   • Strain the tea into cups to remove solids. Add honey to taste while the tea is warm, stirring until dissolved.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Pour the tea into your favorite cup and enjoy it warm. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and citrusy flavors.

Tip: The softened dates can be eaten as a sweet treat after steeping!

Recommendations & Alternatives

• Infuse the tea with a few jasmine tea leaves for a delicate floral aroma that pairs beautifully with the goji berries.
• Add a few dried chrysanthemum flowers for a floral twist and added health benefits.
• Chill the tea after brewing and serve over ice for a refreshing summer drink.
• Reuse the goji berries and dates after brewing by blending them into a smoothie for no waste.
• Incorporate a handful of dried longan fruit to enhance the tea’s natural sweetness and deepen its traditional Chinese flavor.
• Sprinkle a tiny amount of Sichuan pepper for a subtle numbing spice that complements the ginger and cinnamon.