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Tired of mushroom teas and drinks that taste like….well, mushrooms? You’re going to love this easy and delicious healthy chaga tea, made with chaga mushroom chunks. It has wonderful health benefits (like a boost of antioxidants and immune system support) and has such a mild taste that you won’t believe its made with mushrooms.
Chaga is a mushroom with loads of health benefits and a mild taste, making it my favorite mushroom for tea. While other healthy mushroom varieties might have a bitter or strong flavor (I’m looking at you, reishi), the chaga mushroom is refreshingly mild-tasting and easy to drink. So much so that, my kids ask me to make this tea and happily drink it.
So let’s get to it!
What is Chaga?
Chaga is a type of fungus that primarily grows on birch trees in cold climates, particularly in northern regions like Siberia, Canada, and parts of the northern United States. Known scientifically as Inonotus obliquus, Chaga has a distinctive appearance, resembling a black, irregular mass on the tree bark. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe, for its health benefits.
What are the Benefits of Chaga Tea?
Chaga tea is celebrated for its many health benefits, including:
1. Rich in Antioxidants: Chaga is packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
2. Supports Immune Function: Some studies suggest that Chaga can enhance the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chaga may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to various health issues, including arthritis and heart disease.
4. Blood Sugar Regulation: Preliminary research indicates that Chaga may help lower blood sugar levels, making it potentially beneficial for those with diabetes.
5. Liver Health: Chaga has been shown to support liver function and may help detoxify the body.
Re-Use your Chaga Chunks!
Wait! Don’t toss those used chunks of chaga! Chunks of dried chaga mushrooms can be used multiple times, for multiple infusions. Each infusion will be slightly less potent, but still full of chaga goodness.
Just store your chaga chunks in the freezer after you’ve strained your infusion, and use them again. I use the same chunks of chaga mushrooms at least 5 times. And then, when they are mostly used up for tea, I add them to my veggie scrap bag in the freezer and they later become part of homemade vegetable or bone broth. They can also be composted.
frozen chaga mushroom chunks, ready to be brewed into their next batch of chaga tea.
What else can I add to Chaga Tea?
Chaga tea is delicious on its own, but adding a few other supportive ingredients can really bring this herbal drink to the next level. Consider adding:
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and sweetness while providing additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This recipe includes cinnamon.
Maple Syrup: My favorite natural sweetener for chaga because it complements the earthy flavor and adds a hint of sweetness.
Honey: Another natural sweetener. Choose raw and unfiltered for maximum health benefits.
Ginger: Provides a spicy kick and additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
Should I sweeten my Chaga Tea?
This is completely up to you. My recipe includes maple syrup as a mild sweetener, which I love paired with the subtle cinnamon in this blend. You can add more sweetener, if you prefer, or leave it out completely. You can also try honey for a slightly different flavor, or raw sugar.
Can I drink chaga tea cold?
YES! We drink this tea cold most of the time, and love it as a refreshing iced drink. I make many of my herbal teas and infusions cold, because I find that my kids are far more likely to drink it cold.
Make it a Chaga Cocktail
This is a great fall and winter base for a festive, herbal cocktail. I’ve served it with a shot of whiskey over ice, and it’s a hit!
Chaga Tea with Cinnamon and Maple
An easy and delicious healthy chaga tea, made with chaga mushroom chunks, cinnamon and maple syrup. This healthy mushroom tea packs a nutritional punch and tastes great, too. This makes a large batch of chaga tea that can be stored in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
- 6 pieces dried Chaga mushrooms, estimated
- 1 cinnamon stick, broken up
- 2 quarts water
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
Add chaga, cinnamon, and water to a saucepan and heat to a simmer
Cover with a lid and continue simmering for at least 1 hour
Remove from heat and let cool if planning to store, or strain into cups and serve hot.
Strain the tea into jars for storage, save the chaga chunks!
Add maple syrup and stir to combine
Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
Drink cold with ice, or as a warm tea. Both ways are delicious!
Don't toss your chaga mushroom chunks after brewing your tea! They can be re-used multiple times to make your next several batches of chaga tea. Let them air dry, and then pop them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze until you're ready to make your next batch of tea. I re-use my chaga chunks up to 5 times.